NEW YORK (TIP): The Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) New York, one of the most influential and largest organizations representing Rajasthanis outside Rajasthan, hosted a spectacular celebration marking the 75th Rajasthan Diwas and the 25th Holi Sneh Milan. The grand event took place aboard a cruise and was attended by over 400 distinguished guests, making it a truly memorable occasion.

Call for Recognition of the Rajasthani Language 

On this significant occasion, RANA President Prem Bhandari voiced his strong displeasure over the continued injustice faced by over 100 million people due to the non-recognition of the Rajasthani language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He expressed deep disappointment that despite a unanimous resolution passed by the Rajasthan State Assembly on August 25, 2003, urging its inclusion, the central government has yet to take action.

Bhandari recalled that this resolution was a direct outcome of RANA’s first International Convention, during which a memorandum advocating for Rajasthani’s recognition was submitted to the then Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. However, even after decades, this demand remains unfulfilled due to a lack of political will.

Farewell Ceremony for Dr. Varun Jeph

A farewell ceremony was also organized in honor of Dr. Varun Jeph, the outgoing Deputy Consul General of India, who has been the longest-serving DCG, completing over 3 years and 8 months in office.

Former RANA Presidents—K.K. Mehta, Anand Nahar, Haridas Kotawala, Dr. Narender Hadpawat, and Dashrath Dugara—presented floral tributes to Dr. Jeph, acknowledging his dedicated service to the Indian diaspora.

Prominent diaspora leader Prem Bhandari shared his experiences of working with Dr. Jeph, praising his round-the-clock availability and unwavering commitment to assisting the Indian community across the 10 states under the jurisdiction of the Indian Consulate in New York. Bhandari commended him for being approachable, accessible, and always willing to help.

Welcome to New Deputy Consul General Vishal Harsh

The event also welcomed the new Deputy Consul General, Vishal Harsh, and was attended by Indian Foreign Service officers Surender Adhana and Eldos Mathew Punnoose. Many Indian-Americans of Rajasthani origin from the tri-state area actively participated in the celebrations, further strengthening the community’s ties.

Cultural Highlights & Community Engagement

The evening was filled with cultural vibrancy, as renowned poet Abhinav Shukla mesmerized the audience with his soulful poetry. Adding to the festive spirit, guests participated in the traditional Holi celebration with flower petals, making the event truly special.

Dr. Sharad Kothari, Vice President of RANA, and Neelam Modi, Treasurer of RANA, warmly welcomed the guests. They extended heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Committee and Board Members, emphasizing that the event’s remarkable success would not have been possible without their active participation and unwavering support.

The celebration was a testament to RANA’s commitment to preserving and promoting Rajasthani culture and heritage while addressing important community issues at an international level.

(Press released by RANA media chairman Dr Ravi Murarka)