Prominent Indian Americans expressed their support for Donald Trump following his re-election as the 47th President of the United States, with many emphasizing their commitment to collaborating with his administration on key issues, especially US-India relations. Google CEO Sundar Pichai congratulated Trump on his “decisive victory” and highlighted the current era of American innovation, pledging to work with the president to ensure these benefits are shared widely. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley also offered her congratulations, urging for unity among Americans. She stressed that the next steps involve a peaceful transition and that true unity requires action, not just…
Author: Shradhanjali Mukherjee
The 21st India-US Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting commenced on Wednesday in New Delhi, with Lt Gen JP Mathew of India’s Integrated Defence Staff and Lt Gen Joshua M Rudd from the US Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) co-chairing the event. Discussions emphasized new initiatives within existing defense cooperation frameworks, aiming to strengthen India-US defense engagements and interoperability in addressing shared security concerns in the Indo-Pacific. The India-US MCG, a collaborative forum, facilitates strategic and operational-level discussions between India’s Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff, and USINDOPACOM, focused on advancing bilateral defense ties. On Monday, the 15th edition of the Exercise Vajra Prahar commenced…
San Francisco-based robotics startup, Physical Intelligence, has successfully raised $400 million in its latest funding round, bringing its post-money valuation to $2.4 billion. This investment round saw participation from high-profile backers, including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, OpenAI, Thrive Capital, Lux Capital, and Bond Capital. Additionally, Khosla Ventures and Sequoia Capital contributed, reflecting the growing confidence in the company’s vision. This funding marks a significant leap from Physical Intelligence’s previous seed round in March, where it raised $70 million at a valuation of $400 million. The company’s rapid growth and soaring valuation demonstrate the increasing interest in creating AI-driven robotics, especially…
As the Diwali festivities draw closer, markets across India, particularly in Delhi, are bracing for an impressive shopping surge, with total sales expected to reach approximately $50.57 billion (Rs 4.25 trillion). Delhi is anticipated to contribute around $8.92 billion (Rs 75,000 crore) to this festive turnover. Following the successful celebrations of Raksha Bandhan, Navratri, and Karva Chauth, merchants are going all out to attract customers by presenting lavish decorations, festive lighting, and an extensive range of discounts and offers. Mr. Praveen Khandelwal, a Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk and Secretary General of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT),…
US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, brought lively energy to Diwali celebrations at the US Embassy in Delhi on Wednesday. Garcetti surprised the crowd with a spirited Bhangra dance to the hit song “Tauba Tauba” from the Bollywood film Bad Newz, wearing a traditional brown kurta, stylish shades, a red dupatta, and taupe shoes to embrace the festive look. Earlier, Garcetti had shared his excitement for the holiday by posting a photo of the embassy glowing with golden lights for Diwali. He shared, “Our Embassy is all lit up, and we’re ready for Diwali. How are you celebrating the Festival…
Indian-origin actress Poorna Jagannathan, recognized for her performances in films such as Delhi Belly and Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, as well as the Netflix series Never Have I Ever, has publicly endorsed US Vice President and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris for the upcoming presidential election. In an exclusive interview with India Today, the 51-year-old actress stated, “I am wholeheartedly supporting Kamala Harris. This election is very multi-faceted for me. As an immigrant, a survivor of sexual violence, and an advocate for a ceasefire in the Middle East, I have directly felt the impacts of climate change.” Jagannathan emphasized her strong…
Dr. Jagdeep Singh Bachher, a distinguished alumnus of the University of Waterloo, has been appointed as the institution’s 12th chancellor, bringing a wealth of global experience to his new ceremonial role. Serving as Waterloo’s ceremonial head, Dr. Bachher will preside over convocation ceremonies, confer degrees, and represent the university at public events. His appointment marks a new era of leadership aligned with Waterloo’s values of innovation, purpose, and collaboration. Dr. Bachher, who holds degrees from Waterloo in engineering and a doctorate, has been involved with the university since 2018 as a Board of Governors member and vice-chair. Reflecting on his…
In a video conference prior to Diwali, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the special significance of this year’s celebrations, as it marks the first Diwali at the newly built Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya. “After 500 years, Lord Ram is now seated in his grand temple, making this the first Diwali celebrated with him in such a magnificent setting. We are truly fortunate to witness this special and grand Diwali,” PM Modi stated. On this auspicious occasion, the Prime Minister noted that appointment letters for government jobs are being distributed to 51,000 young individuals at the employment fair, emphasizing…
Just a week before the US presidential election, Republican candidate Donald Trump reiterated his dedication to strengthening the US-India relationship, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi his “good friend.” In a Diwali message posted on X, Trump pledged to bolster ties with India, emphasizing shared economic and strategic interests. Trump’s statement came as violence against Hindu and minority communities in Bangladesh made headlines. He condemned these attacks, noting the importance of global security and community protections. Trump’s relationship with Modi has been well-established, highlighted by events like the “Howdy, Modi!” rally in Texas, where the two leaders addressed over 50,000 attendees,…
On October 26, 2024, Indian seniors from Chicago gathered for their annual celebration and Diwali festivities at Manav Seva Mandir in Bensenville, Illinois. With around 430 attendees, including both members and guests, the event was organized by Bhupendra Suthar and Daxa Parikh, who created an atmosphere of joy and unity. Panna Shah, an Executive Board member, shared insights on the 24-year history of the Indian Seniors of Chicago, highlighting the organization’s journey and community involvement. Distinguished guests, including Manav Seva Mandir Trustee Chairman Dahyabhai Prajapati, President Raju Chauhan, and several board members such as Shirish Patel, Narsinh Patel, Bhailal Patel,…