The Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) commemorated the 77th Rajasthan Diwas along with the Holi Sneh Milan at the Consulate General of India in New York, marking a significant milestone for the community. At the event, an initial pledge exceeding $5 million was announced by the Mehta Family Trust, on behalf of founder K.K. Chandra Mehta, to support the development of a proposed Indo-US Friendship Center.
The envisioned project, conceptualized by Consul General Ambassador Binay K. Pradhan, aims to include a Rajasthan Bhawan, a dedicated yoga and Ayurveda center, a convention facility, and a senior social center, reflecting a comprehensive vision for cultural and community engagement.
During the celebrations, the Rajasthan Ratna Awards were presented to Dr. Samin Sharma, Dr. Narinder Kukar, Dr. Raj Bansal, Ashok Sancheti, and Jugal Kishore Ladda in recognition of their exceptional contributions to philanthropy and community service. All five awardees were also named patrons of RANA, further solidifying their role in supporting the diaspora community.
Nand Todi received a separate acknowledgment for his humanitarian efforts, including a recent $1 million donation toward a homeless shelter in Montgomery County near Philadelphia, alongside ongoing support for Jaipur Foot and Apna Ghar Ashram. Team Aid founder Mohan Nannapaneni and his organization were honoured for facilitating over 5,000 repatriations of mortal remains to 27 countries since 2017, mainly to India.
RANA President Prem Bhandari addressed attendees, advocating for the inclusion of the Rajasthani language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and calling on the Rajasthan government to recognise it as a second state language.
The program featured vibrant cultural presentations, including flower Holi celebrations, dance performances, and a poetry recital by Abhinav Shukla. RANA Treasurer Neelam Modi welcomed attendees, while Secretary Ravi Jangarh delivered the vote of thanks, concluding a day that celebrated community achievements, cultural heritage, and philanthropy.
