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Punjabi society marks Vaisakhi with officials, diplomats in NY
Fourteen individuals received APS community service recognition for contributions in leadership, service, and cultural enrichment
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Staff Reporter - Tue, 05, May 2026
- 02:13 EDT
- 33
The event, organized in partnership with Nassau County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman, consul General of India Binaya Srikanta Pradhan / APS
The American Punjabi Society held its annual Vaisakhi celebration April 23 at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola, N.Y., drawing elected officials, diplomatic representatives, and community leaders for an evening of cultural performances, awards, and interfaith reflection.
The event, organized in partnership with Nassau County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman, the Consulate General of India in New York, the Nassau County Human Rights Commission, and the Office of Asian American Affairs, marked Vaisakhi — observed as both the Punjabi harvest festival and Khalsa Sajna Diwas, commemorating the founding of the Khalsa in 1699.
Consul General of India Binaya Srikanta Pradhan attended the celebration. Owen Naqvi, director of the Office of Asian American Affairs, presided over the proceedings, while Bobby Kalotee, chairman of the Human Rights Commission, served as one of the principal organizers.
Blakeman acknowledged the contributions of the Punjabi community to Nassau County and expressed appreciation for the society's role in promoting community engagement.
APS Founder Patron Harry Singh Bolla spoke on the historical and spiritual dimensions of the occasion. "Vaisakhi serves as a powerful reminder of the core values of faith, courage, equality, and selfless service," he said, adding that preserving these traditions for future generations remains a priority.
APS Global President Gary S. Sikka described the holiday as more than a religious observance. "Vaisakhi is not only a religious and cultural celebration but also a call to action for community building and service," he said. He reaffirmed the organization's commitment to youth engagement and bridge-building across communities.
Professor Manjeet Singh, Jathedar of Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, addressed the gathering on the religious significance of Khalsa Sajna Diwas, emphasizing its message of equality and service. Prominent oncologist and Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. Nori also addressed those present.
All five major Gurdwaras in the New York area were represented at the event, including Mata Sahib Kaur Gurdwara in Glen Cove, Guru Gobind Singh Sikh Center in Plainview, Guru Nanak Darbar of Long Island in Hicksville, Gurudwara Shaheedan in Hicksville, and Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center in Richmond Hill. Members of the Sikh Officers Association of the NYPD were also in attendance.
The program included a presentation of colors, bhangra and giddha performances, / APSFourteen individuals received APS community service recognition for contributions in leadership, service, and cultural enrichment. Among the honorees were Sgt. Gurvinder Singh of the NYPD and Dr. Avtar Singh Tinna, who also represented the Vaisakhi 5K Run initiative.
The program included a presentation of colors, bhangra and giddha performances, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Paul S. Bindra. Dinner was provided by Mint restaurant.
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