Golgappa, also called pani puri or puchka in North India, is now a common sight at White House receptions, such as the recent Rose Garden gathering held by President Joe Biden to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month. Among the guests were numerous Asian-Americans and Indian-Americans, including US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, who entertained the crowd with a drum performance and emphasized the healing power of music.
Ajay Jain Bhutoria, a community leader in attendance, praised the tangy and spicy flavors of the Golgappas, which he found to be a perfect addition to the menu alongside traditional items like samosas. Bhutoria also noted the presence of another Indian delicacy, “Khoya,” a sweet made from khoya, reflecting the diversity of Asian American cuisine at the event.
Golgappa’s popularity in the US has grown in recent years due to its delectable taste, earning it a special place even at prestigious events like White House receptions. The celebration also featured India’s patriotic song “Saare Jahan Se Achha,” underscoring the cultural richness of the occasion.
The event marked 25 years since the establishment of the White House Initiative and the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, with leaders from five presidential administrations honoring the contributions of these communities to American society. The theme for the 2024 National AANHPI Heritage Month, “Advancing Leaders Through Innovation,” continued the focus on recognizing and promoting leadership within these diverse communities, building on the efforts initiated in 2021.
