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India Association of Long Island honors 4 women leaders at annual gala
The event featured tributes to the honorees, keynote remarks, cultural celebration, community recognition, live entertainment and networking with leaders.
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 23, Jul 2026
- 18:09 EDT
- 57
Glimpses of the gathering / IALI
The India Association of Long Island (IALI) honored four women for their leadership, philanthropy and community service during its annual gala on July 19 at Pearl Banquet in Hicksville.
The event, attended by elected officials, business leaders and members of the Indian American community, was themed "Creators of Icons – The Women Behind Successful Men," recognizing women whose contributions have supported their families, businesses and communities.
The honorees were Shashi Malik for her community leadership and years of service; Padma Behen Mehta for her philanthropy and humanitarian work; Shalu Suri Chopra for her support of cultural and charitable initiatives; and Geeta Patel for her leadership in the Patel Brothers family's bakery and kitchen operations while balancing entrepreneurship and community service.
Also read: ISKCON Central NJ marks 20 years of Rath Yatra celebration
IALI president Jasbir Jay Singh said the gala celebrated the often-overlooked contributions of women and reaffirmed the organization's commitment to community service and cultural preservation. During his remarks, Singh introduced his granddaughter, Kiara, describing her as a symbol of the next generation of accomplished women.
The keynote address was delivered by entrepreneur and Navika Capital Group Chairman Naveen Shah, who encouraged Indian Americans to continue investing in education, leadership, entrepreneurship and public service.
The program was attended by New York State Sen. Steve Rhoads, Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, former New York State Assemblyman Mike LiPetri, Nassau County Human Rights Commission Chairman Bobby Kumar Kalote and Judge Lillian Wan, among other public officials and community leaders.
IALI also recognized several past presidents, including Dr. Narendra Hadpawat, Anila Midha, Gobind Munjal, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Bina Sabapathy, Dr. Bhavani Srinivasan and Shashi Malik, for their contributions to the organization's nearly five-decade history.
The evening featured video tributes from last year's honorees, live music, dinner and dancing. Singh thanked sponsors, volunteers and members, saying the organization would continue to promote Indian heritage, civic engagement and community service across Long Island.
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