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Four honorees recognized at Bihar Diwas 2026 celebration in NY
The celebration brought together dignitaries, community leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora to mark Bihar Diwas with a focus on heritage, progress, and future vision
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Staff Reporter - Tue, 21, Apr 2026
- 11:18 EDT
- 66
All Honorees with Consul General Binaya Pradhan / Handout
Four distinguished members of the global Bihari community were honored with the Bihar Vishwa Gaurav Samman 2026 on April 19 during the Bihar Diwas celebrations held at the Consulate General of India in New York.
The honorees—Saroj Kumar Jha, Rajesh Sinha, Sanjay Choubey, and Hasmukh Ranjan—were recognized for their achievements across sectors and their continued engagement with Bihar’s development.
In their acceptance messages, the awardees underscored values of family, service, and giving back. Jha highlighted the importance of selfless contribution to society, Sinha credited his entrepreneurial journey to his father’s inspiration, while Choubey emphasized that even in an era of artificial intelligence, strong personal values remain foundational. Ranjan, who could not attend in person in a virtual message, described contributing to one’s roots as a responsibility.
The celebration brought together dignitaries, community leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora to mark Bihar Diwas with a focus on heritage, progress, and future vision. The event was emceed by Komal Sharan, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for the evening.
A key highlight of the program was the message from Pratyaya Amrit, Chief Secretary of Bihar, who addressed the global Bihari community, stating that “Bihar is ready for transformation” and calling for active participation from the diaspora. He also emphasized accountability in governance, assuring transparency in addressing development challenges.
Kundan Kumar, Industry Secretary of Bihar and CEO of Bihar Foundation, echoed the sentiment with the message “Bihar Hai Taiyar,” pointing to initiatives such as new GCC policies and industrial growth, and urging the diaspora to contribute to the state’s next phase of development.
Event brought together the members of the Indian diaspora to mark Bihar Diwas / Handout
Alok Kumar, chairman of Bihar Foundation USA – ETZ spoke about Bihar’s forward-looking push in artificial intelligence, including the establishment of a Center of Excellence. He acknowledged the contributions of Mahesh Kumar, Founder of Tiger Analytics, and Badrish Prakash for their role in advancing this initiative in collaboration with the governments of Bihar and India. He also credited leaders including Pratyaya Amrit, Kundan Kumar, Abhay Kumar Singh, and Chanchal Kumar for enabling opportunities for Bihar’s youth.
Alok Kumar further thanked Deputy Consul General of India, New York, Vishal Harsh and Ilayas Quraishi for their presence, along with the organizing team and members of BJANA and Bihar Foundation for their efforts in hosting the event.
Gaon Ki Mitti Mitane Nahi Deti book launch / HandoutThe evening also featured the launch of the book “Gaon Ki Mitti Mitne Nahi Deti” by Santa Mishra, reflecting the enduring connection between individuals and their roots.
Cultural performances showcased Bihar’s rich traditions, including folk presentations such as “Kaune Disame Le Ke Chalah Hai Batohiya,” Sama Chakeva-themed acts, and songs popularized by Sharda Sinha. A skit tracing Bihar’s journey—from Emperor Ashoka and Nalanda University to Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran movement and modern AI-driven aspirations—received a standing ovation.
Addressing the gathering, Consul General Binaya S. Pradhan reflected on Bihar’s global imprint, noting that “almost everyone has a friend from Bihar.” He highlighted the state’s historical legacy, including Nalanda University’s early adoption of coeducation, and praised organizations like Bihar Foundation and BJANA for strengthening community ties.
Community leaders Avinash Gupta and Priti Kashyap also addressed attendees, emphasizing changing perceptions about Bihar, improvements in infrastructure, and the importance of unity and youth engagement within the diaspora.
The event concluded with a sense of renewed connection and purpose, celebrating Bihar’s heritage while reinforcing the diaspora’s role in shaping its future.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
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