Author: Senjuti Bhattacharya

The upcoming national election is set to be a landmark event for Indian Americans in U.S. politics. President Joe Biden recently announced the end of his presidential campaign, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris, who has Indian heritage. Meanwhile, Usha Vance, spouse of JD Vance, a former vice presidential candidate under Donald Trump, also has Indian roots. Earlier this year, Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy were prominent contenders in the Republican primary, highlighting the growing influence and political engagement of Indian Americans. This rising presence isn’t just anecdotal. Data shows Indian Americans have been elected to significant government roles at a…

Women are leading the way in economic empowerment, strengthening educational institutions, and amplifying their voices in politics. They have overcome numerous obstacles and demonstrated their ability to contribute significantly to the betterment of the world, achieving milestones never before seen in human history. The AAPI Women’s Leadership Forum focused on “Celebrating Women of Excellence.” Each speaker at the forum shared their personal journey to professional success. Smriti Irani spoke about breaking numerous glass ceilings to reach the top of both the political and Bollywood worlds. “I am honored to be part of a panel of trailblazing women,” she said, noting…

Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) announced on Wednesday that it has successfully launched the initial 250 MW of wind capacity at the Khavda renewable energy plant in Gujarat, which is the largest of its kind in the world with a total capacity of 30,000 MW (30 GW). This achievement brings the cumulative operational capacity at the Khavda site to 2,250 MW, reinforcing AGEL’s position as a leader in India with the largest operational portfolio of 11,184 MW. The Khavda plant benefits from exceptional wind resources, with speeds reaching 8 meters per second, making it an optimal location for wind energy…

For the first time in independent India’s history, a Hindi film addressing socio-economic issues has been officially invited for screening at the Oxford University Club’s LISD. This prestigious honor highlights the significant impact of the film “Nafisa,” directed by Kumar Neeraj. The film, which delves into pressing humanitarian themes, has garnered international attention for its powerful content. The legal documentation for the film was compiled by Dr. Abhinav Kumar Shrivastava. The film’s teaser, which focuses on the harrowing sexual harassment case at the Muzaffarpur Shelter Home in Bihar, has sparked considerable curiosity and anticipation among global audiences. The striking and…

Congressman Shri Thanedar, an Indian-American from Michigan, has introduced a groundbreaking bill, HR 9023, known as the Keep STEM Graduates in America Act. This proposed legislation could transform the H-1B visa system by increasing the annual visa cap and simplifying the application process, potentially offering significant benefits to Indian and international students alike. The Keep STEM Graduates in America Act is designed to address the challenges faced by graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. By making it easier for these skilled individuals to stay and work in the US, the bill aims to enhance the country’s talent…

When Kamala Harris took the oath of office as Vice President of the United States on January 20, 2021, she made history as the first woman, the first Black American, and the first Indian American to hold the second-highest office in the country. Now, following President Biden’s endorsement of her for the 2024 presidential race, she stands poised to become the first Black and Indian American woman to lead a major party ticket. Harris has long embraced her South Asian heritage with pride. In her 2019 autobiography, “The Truths We Hold: An American Journey,” she reflects on the deep cultural…

Indian American executive Monish Patolawala is set to leave 3M and join Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM), a global food processing and commodities trading corporation, as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer starting August 1. Patolawala brings over 25 years of experience managing global finance and technology teams in top-tier industrial and healthcare companies, including his most recent role at 3M, as announced by ADM on Wednesday. In his new role as EVP and CFO at ADM, Patolawala will oversee Global Finance and Accounting, Global Business Services, Global Technology, and Enterprise Strategy. ADM’s Chair of the Board and CEO, Juan Luciano, expressed…

Janhvi Kapoor has been hospitalized in Mumbai due to a severe bout of food poisoning, confirmed by her father Boney Kapoor. He shared exclusively that her condition has improved and she is expected to be discharged in 1-2 days, with further updates on her health awaited. In other news, Janhvi Kapoor’s upcoming film “Ulajh” released its trailer recently. Portraying Suhana Bhatia, India’s youngest deputy high commissioner in the Indian Foreign Services, Janhvi’s character faces scrutiny over accusations of nepotism. The trailer showcases her resilient spirit as she confronts challenges head-on, asserting, “Now, this goat will eat the lion.” “Ulajh” trailer,…

Usha Chilukuri Vance, the Indian-American wife of Senator J.D. Vance, has recently praised her husband as an ideal candidate for vice president, introducing him with a glimpse into their life and his acceptance of her vegetarian diet, along with his knack for cooking Indian food. Usha, 38, a Yale law graduate and trial lawyer, has mostly kept a low profile. She acknowledged their diverse backgrounds—J.D. being a white man from the Rust Belt and her being the daughter of Indian immigrants. Usha emphasized that their relationship is a testament to America’s unique opportunities. “That J.D. and I could meet, fall…

In a tale of dedication and determination, Shruti Hegde, a doctor hailing from Hubli, Karnataka, has seamlessly balanced her rigorous hospital shifts with an unexpected foray into the world of beauty pageants. Recently crowned India’s first Miss Universal Petite on June 10th in Tampa, Florida, Shruti’s journey underscores her resilience and pursuit of diverse passions. Navigating the demanding realm of healthcare, Shruti’s commitment to both her medical career and newfound pageantry success is a testament to her unwavering spirit. Reflecting on her dual roles, she mused, “Being a doctor is far more challenging than I initially imagined. The intense schedules…