MINEOLA, NY (TIP): The Association of Indians in America – New York Chapter (AIA-NY), on March 20, held a momentous inauguration swearing-in of Beena Kothari as the new President, along with the Executive Committee.

The event was attended by over 150 distinguished guests, including elected officials, AIA founding members, Board of Trustees, AIA Past Presidents, community leaders, members, and media partners. A plaque was presented to outgoing President of AIA-NY Dr. Jagdish Gupta for his leadership of AIA-NY .

The inauguration ceremony featured the singing of the American and Indian national anthems by Bina Sabapthy, Jyoti Gupta, and Roopam Maini, as well as a Ganesh Vandana performance by Hamsaasya School of Dance. Harsh Vyas and Jasbir Jay Singh served as emcees.

President Beena Kothari and other dignitaries delivered inspiring speeches, emphasizing the importance of preserving Indian heritage and culture in the USA, while promoting integration with mainstream America.

AIA-NY Executive Committee, sworn in included:

– President: Beena Kothari
– Vice Presidents: Anita Thakkar, Dr. Tarun Wasil, Harsh Vyas, Nilima Madaan
– Treasurer: Dr. Bal K. Gilja
– Secretary: Dr. Sharad Kothari
– Members-at-Large: –
Anju Sharma, Bhavana Sharma, Deepak Bansal, Deepika Modi
Dr. Narendra Lodha, Dr.Sumita Sengupta, Dr.Usha Bansal,
Gobind Bathija, Jay Jasbir Singh, Jyoti Gupta
Kiran Reddy Parvathala, Narinder Kapoor
Navneet Agarwal, Nick Garg, Nutan Roongta
Roopam Maini, Sanju Sharma, Surin Manaktala
Swati Vaishnav, Satnam Singh Parhar

President Beena Kothari’s Vision:

In her inspiring address, President Kothari emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and community engagement. “We represent not only ourselves but also our rich cultural heritage, values, and aspirations. We are the bridge between our Indian roots and our American dreams. Together, let us strive to take AIA to new heights and continue to serve our community with pride and purpose.”Embracing the inclusive spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, Beena strives to break down barriers and build bridges. She believes in the potential of young individuals and women to drive positive change and is committed to empowering them to become leaders.

Beena’s ultimate goal is to contribute meaningfully to the community, spreading love, kindness, and compassion, and making the world a better place for all.

Upcoming Initiatives:

– Holi Celebration – March 26th, in collaboration with CUNY Asian American Student Board
– Annual Fundraising Gala for Deepavali – June 1st
– National AIA Medical Council Awards Gala – May 3rd, at Cipriani 42nd Street, Manhattan
– Desi Next Youth – (TBD)
– Fundraiser Dinner AIA’s Project India – July 20th
– AIA-NY Iconic Deepavali Festival – October 2025

Beena Kothari’s speech was a heartfelt tribute to the individuals who have contributed to the organization’s success. She acknowledged the vital role played by past presidents, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt thank-you note by Treasurer Dr. Bal K. Gilja and Secretary Dr. Sharad Kothari, followed by a celebratory dinner.

The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for AIA-NY, filled with a commitment to unity, cultural preservation, and community service.