America 250 Freedom Liberty Gala / Handout

Lead America hosted the America 250 Freedom and Liberty Gala on July 19 in Silver Spring, Maryland, to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary.

The event, held at the Southern Asian Seventh-day Adventist Church (SASDC), was   centered on the themes of faith, service, leadership, innovation and hope. It was chaired by Lead America president Rajesh Gooty, with Elisha Pulavarti serving as co-chair

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Glimpses of the event / Handout

The gala featured patriotic tributes, interfaith dialogue, youth programs, cultural performances and recognition of community leaders.

U.S. Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, the guest of honor, praised the initiative and emphasized civic participation."Our democracy was founded on people rising up and standing up for their values, and we will continue to promote and protect this democracy," Subramanyam said, commending Lead America for fostering community engagement.

The event also received proclamations and citations from Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk and the office of Virginia State Sen. Kannan Srinivasan. Other public officials and community leaders in attendance included former Ohio state Sen. Niraj Antani, Virginia Delegate Jesse "JJ" Singh, Maryland leader Andrew Fritz, Shadow Senator Ankit Jain, and former Congressman Terry.

A key segment of the evening, titled "250 Seconds of Gratitude," honored veterans, first responders, educators, healthcare professionals and volunteers for their service. Select honorees also received commemorative American flags that had previously flown during the nation's 250th anniversary observances.

The program also included presentations on American history, the contributions of immigrants, the U.S. Constitution, entrepreneurship and civic engagement.

The gala highlighted youth leadership through a "Youth Pledge for America's Next 250 Years," encouraging young people to play an active role in shaping the country's future.

An interfaith leadership conversation, chaired by Srilekha Palle, brought together representatives from 14 faith traditions to discuss religious freedom, mutual respect and community service. Organizers said the discussion underscored the role of interfaith collaboration in strengthening civic life.

The event also marked the launch of Natyam, a book by Indrani Davaluri, and featured cultural performances celebrating the country's diversity. Community leaders from the civic, healthcare, business and nonprofit sectors also addressed attendees.

"America's 250th anniversary is not simply a celebration of our past—it is an invitation to build our future together," gala chair Rajesh Gooty said. "Lead America exists to inspire servant leadership, civic engagement, and unity across generations and communities."

Krishna Madiraju of Century Pediatrics said, "Children represent America's next 250 years. Investing in youth leadership, character, education, and community service is one of the greatest responsibilities we share."

Interfaith leadership chair Srilekha Palle said, "Although our faith traditions may differ, the values they teach–compassion, humility, service, respect, and love for humanity–are remarkably consistent."

Davaluri said culture has the power to unite people across backgrounds. "Through literature, music, and dance, we celebrate not only our diverse heritage but also the shared American ideals that allow every culture to flourish."

Gala co-chair Elisha Pulivarthi credited volunteers, sponsors and community partners for the event's success. "This gala reflects the power of collaboration," he said. "It was made possible through the dedication of volunteers, community partners, sponsors, and countless individuals who believe that leadership begins with service."

Awards chair Harsha K. Rajasimha, founder and executive chair of the Indo US Organization for Rare Diseases, said, "America's greatest strength has always been its ability to bring together people of different backgrounds around shared ideals of liberty, opportunity, innovation, and service." 

He added that the country's next chapter would be shaped not only by elected leaders but also by scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, healthcare professionals, veterans, faith leaders, volunteers and young people committed to public service.

During the event, Gooty also announced the launch of Lead America Florida, expanding the organization's national footprint. 

"Leaders create leaders. True leadership is measured by our ability to uplift others, foster inclusivity, and build enduring institutions that outlast us," he said. "By expanding our national presence, we are creating a more unified, resilient, and prosperous America for generations to come."

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