Author: Deepika chandrasekar

On May 3, 2025, Dr. Shuvendu Sen received the prestigious Sushruta Charaka Award—recognized as the pinnacle of achievement in the healthcare field—from the Association of Indians in America (AIA). This prestigious ceremony was held during AIA’s annual awards gala at the elegant Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. The AIA, America’s oldest organization representing Indian-origin immigrants, was founded on August 20, 1967, shortly after the 1965–66 Immigration Act nullified the restrictive Asian Exclusion Act of 1917. The group’s mission is rooted in democratic values and is driven by the motto “one member, one vote,” uniting individuals across the US…

In the wake of the 2024 elections, the Democratic Party is at a pivotal moment, as tensions rise between the party’s establishment and its progressive wings. One of the most significant primary challenges is posed by Saikat Chakrabarti, an Indian American tech entrepreneur turned political activist, who is running to unseat former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in California’s 11th congressional district. While Chakrabarti’s bid raises questions about its viability, it represents the growing frustration within the Democratic Party and a desire for change. Chakrabarti, the son of Indian immigrants, first rose to prominence in Silicon Valley before shifting his focus…

 India is projected to move ahead of Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025, according to the latest World Economic Outlook by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The report estimates India’s nominal GDP to reach approximately $4,187 billion, narrowly surpassing Japan’s projected GDP of $4,186 billion. This surge reinforces India’s status as the fastest-growing major economy, with growth rates expected to exceed 6 percent over the next two years—an unmatched performance among global heavyweights. Meanwhile, Japan’s economy is anticipated to be one of the major casualties of the ongoing global trade conflict. The IMF forecasts minimal expansion for…

The much-anticipated historical epic Kesari Veer: Legends of Somnath, starring Suniel Shetty, Vivek Oberoi, and Sooraj Pancholi, has generated significant excitement following the release of its trailer. However, eager audiences will have to wait a bit longer to witness the grand tale unfold on the big screen, as the film’s release has been officially postponed from May 16 to May 23, 2025. Announcing the updated release date on social media, the filmmakers wrote, “See you in the theatres on 23rd May 2025…. Har Har Mahadev… Releasing Worldwide in Cinemas on 23rd May, 2025.” While the delay has been confirmed, the…

During an evening filled with elegance and purpose, acclaimed neuro-oncologist Dr. Sumul N. Raval and noted philanthropist Mr. Albert Jasani hosted a private dinner in honour of Mr. Ashishkumar Chauhan, the Managing Director and CEO of the National Stock Exchange of India. Held at the opulent Royal Albert Palace, the event gathered elite guests from across the fields of healthcare, finance, business, and community service. Mr. Chauhan, a pioneer in India’s capital markets, has played a key role in revolutionizing the country’s financial ecosystem. Credited for leading the development of NSE’s electronic trading platform, his efforts have propelled the NSE…

Rajendra Apte, the Paul A. Cibis Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Washington University School of Medicine, has been awarded the prestigious Outstanding Faculty and Staff Award. The award was given at the 26th annual ceremony, held on April 21 at 5:00 p.m. in Steinberg Auditorium on the Danforth Campus. The Graduate Student Senate has organized this event for 25 years to celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to students through mentorship, teaching, and service. The Graduate and Professional Student Council hosts the ceremony. Dr. Apte shared his appreciation, stating, “Mentoring students, residents, research and clinical fellows,…

VTDigger has announced Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, accomplished author, and academic leader Geeta Anand as its new editor-in-chief, effective July 1. This marks a pivotal moment for independent journalism in Vermont, according to CEO Sky Barsch, who hailed Anand’s appointment as a powerful step toward shaping the future of public-interest reporting in the state. Anand, who previously headed the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley, brings close to three decades of journalism experience to her new position. She will oversee a team of over 20 reporters at VTDigger, steering the newsroom toward bold investigative projects and deeper…

 Siv Panicker, an Indian American entrepreneur, has been chosen as a trustee for the Village of Plainfield, Illinois. He will now join the village president on the governing board. His election marks a meaningful step for community representation in a region where Indian Americans are still a minority. Panicker, who has called Plainfield home for the past eight years, shared with the Times of India that his decision to run stemmed from a genuine desire to serve. “I care deeply about Plainfield and its people,” he said, noting his past involvement with political groups and campaign work. As someone from…

Amidst the echo of Vedic hymns and chants of “Hara Hara Sankara, Jaya Jaya Sankara,” Sri Satya Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi was formally consecrated as the 71st Acharya of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam on April 30, coinciding with the sacred occasion of Akshaya Tritiya in Kancheepuram. The induction was led by the current pontiff, Sri Vijayendra Saraswathi, who performed the traditional Sanyasa Deeksha Samaroh. During the ceremony, the sacred tandam (spiritual staff) was handed over at the Ganga Theertham within the Sri Kanchi Kamakshi Ambal Devasthanam, signifying the formal spiritual succession. Following the anointment, devotees gathered along the streets to welcome both…

In a decisive move following the devastating terrorist strike in Pahalgam, which took the lives of 26 civilians including one from Nepal, the Indian government has overhauled the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB). Alok Joshi, who formerly led the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), now chairs the restructured board. Joining him are six newly inducted members with extensive experience in military, diplomatic, and law enforcement roles. The new members include retired Air Marshal P.M. Sinha, ex-Lieutenant General A.K. Singh, and Rear Admiral Monty Khanna. Representing the Indian Police Service are Rajiv Ranjan Verma and Manmohan Singh, both retired officers. Diplomatic…