A Publication of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)
Published Monthly
President Prakash Shah
Editor-in-Chief
Umesh Chandra OAM
Senior Editorial Advisor
Thomas Abraham
Editorial Assistant
Nami Kaur
GOPIO News Bulletin is a monthly newsletter published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by GOPIO News Bulletin, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in GOPIO News Bulletin are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by GOPIO News Bulletin. GOPIO News Bulletin will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply / approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers / correspondents responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned.
From the Editor:
Editor's Note
Welcome to the May 2026 issue of the GOPIO International News Bulletin. We celebrate a period of active chapters and vibrant community engagement around the globe.
Congratulations to GOPIO Brisbane on a successful Girmit Diwas celebration, which was well attended and featured the Consul General of India in Queensland, Mrs. Neetu Bhagotia, as the chief guest. Such events highlight the enduring connections and heritage that bind our diaspora communities.
We also extend heartfelt congratulations to GOPIO Manhattan on the election of its new leadership team. We look forward to your continued momentum and impactful initiatives.
As we highlight the goodwill and achievements across our chapters, it remains essential that we include articles from all chapters in the bulletin. If an article is not received, we cannot include it. Let us all continue to share stories of impact and progress so that the entire GOPIO family benefits from a comprehensive and engaging publication.
A gentle reminder about timely submissions: please ensure that contributions are in Word format with photos attached via email. We do not have the capacity to extract articles from other messaging formats, so please share content in the requested format to help us publish on schedule.
Updates on chapter communications: some chapters may still have outdated contact lists, which can lead to communications going to past committees. Please review and update your chapter details to ensure seamless coordination.
While we look forward to successful events and initiatives—such as Best of Bharat and Trade Show activities—please keep us informed of upcoming plans so we can feature them widely. Planning for the GOPIO International Convention continues, and early registration opportunities remain open where applicable; please take advantage of these to benefit from preferred rates and early planning.
If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to: ceo@chantex.com.au
Our monthly webinars are progressing well. I would like to extend my thanks to the technical team, speakers, moderators, and participants from across the globe for their continued engagement and contribution.
We remain mindful of the challenges faced by the Indian diaspora worldwide. GOPIO International, under the leadership of Chairperson Thomas Abraham and President Prakash Shah, remains committed to promoting unity and constructive advocacy, including public statements and outreach as appropriate to safeguard our communities and uphold the values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family.
Thank you for your continued support and collaboration. Until next month, Happy Reading!
—Umesh Chandra OAM, Editor in Chief GOPIO International Editorial Team
GOPIO NEWS BULLETIN
GOPIO-Virginia to Celebrate 17th Anniversary and America’s 250th Freedom Celebration with Award of Excellence Banquet
Anight of networking, tribute, and unforgettable Indian American talent
GOPIO-Virginia will celebrate 17 years of service, leadership, and community impact as we join in honouring America’s 250th Freedom Celebration.
The centrepiece of the evening will be the Award of Excellence Banquet, recognising outstanding Indian American individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their communities, professions, and the nation at large.
Networking Reception:
Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with esteemed dignitaries, elected officials, community leaders, and supporters in a welcoming, professional environment.
Indian Dinner: Guests will enjoy a delectable, thoughtfully prepared
Indian dinner that brings together flavours and culture in one memorable experience.
Award of Excellence Banquet: Awards will be presented to individuals whose anticipated achievements reflect the values of leadership, service, and excellence.
Indian Entertainment: Mesmerising performances will showcase the rich tapestry of Indian arts and culture.
Attendees will engage with policymakers, business leaders, and community organisers to foster collaborations and initiatives.
Guests will enjoy a highquality program that will blend recognition with cultural celebration.
Contact: Chapter President Jay at +1 301-254-4679 or [email address if available]
To secure seats for this landmark evening, attendees can register at [registration link] or contact Jay at +1
Attendees will celebrate the contributions of Indian American leaders in Virginia and across the United States.
301-254-4679 for more information. Space will be limited; early registration will be encouraged.
About GOPIO-Virginia, GOPIO-Virginia is a chapter of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), dedicated to empowering the Indian American community through leadership development, civic engagement, cultural preservation, and service. The 17th anniversary will mark nearly two decades of collaboration, advocacy, and community impact in Virginia.
GOPIO Brisbane Girmit Diwas on 14 May 2026
Acommemorative Girmit Diwas event hosted by GOPIO Brisbane on 14 May 2026. This was the 18th annual service organised by GOPIO Brisbane. Held at the Queensland Multicultural Centre, the program emphasized memory, education, and intercultural dialogue that have defined GOPIO Brisbane’s Girmit Diwas since its inception. The occasion was supported by Queensland Senator Paul Scarr, whose sponsorship
underscored the event’s significance within the state’s multicultural landscape.
Leading the program were chair Umesh Chandra OAM and co-chair Pravinita Singh Pillay, with Pillay acting as master of ceremonies. The afternoon opened with a self-introduction and a oneminute moment of silence to honor the victims of terror and the resilience of Girmit-era ancestors.
Archana Singh, introduced as GOPIO Queensland’s patron,
delivered an overview of Girmit, framing indenture as a global historical episode whose cultural legacies endure in Fiji, Guyana, Mauritius, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Reunion, and beyond.
Umesh Chandra OAM spoke from GOPIO’s perspective on how Girmit memory persists through language, music, cuisine, and faith among diaspora communities. A key ceremonial moment featured a keynote by CGI
Girmit Diwas Awardee Davendra Pathik
Neetu Bhagotia ji, followed by a floral tribute. The program included guest speeches by Cr Vicki Howard and floor reflection by Cr Sandy Landers, and a panel discussion including panellists Aymish Khushal, Babu Singh and Reema Naresh, moderated by Bob Pillay, before opening the floor for audience questions.
A video segment highlighted the “Children of Fiji” and related archival material, while Cr Sandy Landers led a floor reflection. The proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Usha Chandra and floral tributes organised by Usha Chandra and Irene Bayldon. A dinner brought attendees together to continue conversations about shared heritage and inclusion.
The runsheet showed a carefully choreographed logistics framework: Umesh Chandra OAM served as in-charge, with AV support by Mayuresh Lande and catering coordinated by Bob Pillay with Indian Brothers. Multicultural Australia provided the venue, and BEMAC supported logistics. VIP seating, wreaths, and flowers were organised with support from sponsors including Cornerstone Law Offices, Globenet Realty, Umesh and Usha Chandra, Dream Style Decorators, Sam and Shabnam, and Senator Paul Scarr, among others. The program’s sponsorship roster reflected a broad coalition of
CGI Neetu Bhagotia ji floral Tribute
Cr Vicki Howard
CGI Neetu Bhagotia ji
civic leaders and community partners.
In line with the broader
GOPIO vision, the 2026 Girmit Diwas materials reiterated that Girmit was more than a historical
chapter of hardship. It connected communities from Fiji and Guyana to Mauritius, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, and Reunion, highlighting how culture, language, cuisine, and faith knit diasporic identities. The program stressed that May 14 is more than a date— it is a living invitation to educate younger generations, preserve archives, and build a future rooted in respect and shared heritage. The event thus reinforced GOPIO Brisbane’s commitment to youth engagement, memorial programs, and intercultural dialogue as ongoing pillars of global citizenship.
Panelists
Umes Chandra OAM
12th International Yoga Day Planned for Gold Coast
Mumbai, India – April 15, 2026 – GOPIO International (Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin) today announced its 37th Anniversary Convention, VIKSANA 2026: Diaspora Connecting Technology, Capital, Mentors, and Makers. The convention will bring together GOPIO members and members of the Indian diaspora from around the world for three days of insight, collaboration, and celebration of entrepreneurial and technological innovation. The event will be hosted in Mumbai from December 18–20, 2026, at the Garware Club, a premier venue that will serve as a dynamic hub for networking, knowledge exchange, and relationship building across borders.
Event Overview and Objectives
The Consulate General of India, Brisbane (CGI Brisbane), in collaboration with GOPIO Gold Coast Inc., is proud to host the 12th International Day of Yoga celebration. The event will bring together yoga practitioners and wellness enthusiasts for a rejuvenating morning in a beautiful outdoor setting. The gathering will take place at Broadwater Parklands, Southport, on Sunday, 21
June 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 am, and is open to all ages and levels, with families encouraged to join. Participants can expect a serene outdoor environment that promotes wellness, mindfulness, and community, guided by qualified instructors who will lead a session suitable for everyone. The organisers are also inviting attendees to stay for light refreshments and take the opportunity to connect with fellow participants and members of the broader Indian diaspora.
The event will be hosted in Mumbai from December 18–20, 2026, at the Garware Club, a premier venue that will serve as a dynamic hub for networking, knowledge exchange, and relationship building across borders.
Attendees are asked to bring their yoga mat, towel, and water bottle for the session, along with comfortable clothing and sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. The event emphasises holistic health and wellbeing, reflecting the global spirit of the International
Day of Yoga, celebrated every year on 21 June. The Brisbane celebration is part of a broader international initiative supported by participating partners, including the High Commission of India, Canberra, among others.
The event is free and open to the public, with on-site registration available on the day. For media inquiries, please contact the CGI Brisbane Media Officer using the provided correspondence details, who will provide further information and arrange interviews as required. The collaboration brings together a range of partners dedicated to fostering cultural exchange, wellness, and community spirit between India and Australia.
About the organisers: The Consulate General of India, Brisbane, represents the Government of India in Queensland and is dedicated to promoting cultural exchange, trade, and people-to-people links. GOPIO Gold Coast Inc. is a community organisation that fosters friendship, unity, and cultural exchange among people of Indian origin and the broader community. The 12th International Day of Yoga reaffirms their shared commitment to health, harmony, and inclusivity across the region.
Community Leaders Gather in Cairns for Dinner, Dialogue and Major Multicultural Announcements
GOPIO Cairns Inc. was pleased to cohost the Community Leaders Dinner & Meet & Greet in partnership with Centacare FNQ, bringing together community leaders, organisations, business representatives and changemakers for an evening of connection, collaboration and shared learning.
The event provided an important platform for multicultural and community leaders from across Far North Queensland to network, exchange ideas
and discuss opportunities to strengthen inclusion, participation and community partnerships.
A key highlight of the evening was the presentation by Hari Hara Priya Kannan from The Demographics Group, who shared valuable insights into changing communities, population trends, diversity and the future direction of Far North Queensland. Her presentation encouraged meaningful discussion about how communities, service providers, businesses and
leaders can work together to respond to the needs of a growing and diverse region.
During the evening, GOPIO Cairns Inc. officially unveiled the Cairns Indian Festival 2026 poster, announcing that the much-anticipated festival will be held on Saturday, 12 September 2026 at Fogarty Park, Cairns. The festival is expected to celebrate once again Indian culture, food, music, dance, traditions, and community spirit, while welcoming people from all backgrounds to experience the vibrancy of India in the
heart of Cairns.
Another significant announcement was made by Centacare FNQ, which shared plans to establish a Multicultural Business Forum, supported by the Cairns Chamber of Commerce. The forum aims to create stronger connections among multicultural communities, local businesses, and industry leaders, while encouraging economic participation, networking, collaboration, and business opportunities across the region.
GOPIO Cairns Inc. sincerely thanked Centacare FNQ for its partnership and leadership in creating such a meaningful event, and acknowledged all community leaders, organisations and attendees who contributed to the evening’s success.
Special thanks were also extended to Spicy Bite Smithfield for providing amazing food and warm hospitality, which added to the success of the gathering.
The evening reflected the growing strength of Cairns’ multicultural community and highlighted the importance of collaboration between community organisations, service providers, businesses and civic leaders. Events such as this continue to play an important role in building a more inclusive, connected and vibrant Far North Queensland.
As part of its local ongoing community service initiative, GOPIO-CT sponsors a monthly soup kitchen at the New Covenant House in Stamford. Last Saturday, volunteers Meera and Bhom Banta joined other helpers to prepare and serve a hot meal to a crowd of about 75-80 people at the Covenant House. The menu offered a flavourful mix of rice, rajma, fish, cabbage, salad, bread, and desserts, providing a satisfying meal for all.
GOPIO-CT is proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedicated service to the Indian diaspora and local community in Connecticut. Over the years, the chapter has organized various Indian cultural festivals, collaborated with local libraries to establish India Collections, and supported initiatives like the Bennett Cancer Center’s Hope in Motion Walkathon. Additionally, GOPIO-CT has recognized nearly 100 outstanding professionals, entrepreneurs, and community service leaders, and provided scholarships for students. The chapter has also supported food pantries and raised funds for various charities in Connecticut.
To commemorate this milestone, GOPIO-CT officials gathered for a dinner meeting on May 1st at the Hampton Inn to plan the 20th Anniversary celebration. The chapter has scheduled the 20th Anniversary Awards Banquet for June 13th at Water’s Edge in Darien.
A photo of the Executive Committee, Trustees, and Celebration Committee is shown above.
GOPIO Engages with External Affairs Minister at UN on Emigrate Platform’s Second Anniversary
New York — The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) had a productive meeting with Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, on the sidelines of the Emigrate platform’s second anniversary at the United Nations. The gathering underscored GOPIO’s ongoing commitment to fostering global dialogue on diaspora issues and collaborative engagement with international partners. The event was well attended by senior representatives from multiple missions, including those of Ecuador, Germany, the Philippines, and Saudi Arabia. Delegates also included representatives from prominent international organisations and institutes, notably the International
Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the International Migration Research Centre (IMRD), highlighting the broad international interest in diaspora affairs.
During the discussions, GOPIO showcased brochures from past conventions to highlight the organisation’s global footprint and impact. Attendees were formally invited to GOPIO’s upcoming conventions:
Mauritius: June 17–21
Mumbai: December 18–21
In addition to convention outreach, GOPIO underscored the importance of inclusive programming at upcoming diaspora-focused events. A key item on the agenda was ensuring the inclusion of speakers for Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) 2027, slated for January 9, 2027. GOPIO stressed the value of
diverse diaspora voices at PBD to reflect the breadth of the Indian diaspora’s contributions worldwide.
From GOPIO International, the delegation comprised Vinod Gannu, Ashok Bhatt, and Sid Jain. Dr Lisa George from the GOPIO Manhattan chapter was also in attendance, reinforcing GOPIO’s trans-continental leadership and collaborative reach.
About GOPIO, the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) is dedicated to empowering the Indian diaspora through cultural exchange, education, and advocacy. GOPIO works with governments, international bodies, and civil society to advance inclusive, globally informed approaches to diaspora issues.
A New GOPIO-Manhattan Team Sworn-In
New York, May 21st, 2026. The Manhattan Chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIOManhattan), established in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, successfully conducted elections for its Executive Committee and Board of Trustees and formally inducted its new leadership team on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
The oath-taking ceremony was held at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in Manhattan in the presence of members, supporters, community leaders, dignitaries, and wellwishers, reflecting a strong
spirit of unity, leadership, and commitment to community service.
The event was attended by GOPIO International leadership, including Chairman Dr Thomas Abraham, President Prakash Shah, and General Secretary Siddarth Jain, who extended their greetings and support to the newly elected team.
President-Elect Prof. Rajasekhar Vangapaty warmly welcomed the audience and shared his vision of collaborative and inclusive leadership for the chapter. He then invited Dr Thomas Abraham, Chair of
the Election Committee, to speak about GOPIO’s history, mission, and contributions to the global Indian diaspora community.
Dr Abraham shared valuable insights into GOPIO’s journey, accomplishments, and continued efforts in connecting and empowering the Indian diaspora worldwide. He then invited GOPIO International President Prakash Shah, who spoke about upcoming GOPIO programs, including the GOPIO Convention in Mumbai. President Shah then administered the oath of office to the newly elected Executive Committee,
GOPIO-Manhattan Officials, Members and Supporters at the Oath Ceremony
Speakers at the Oath Ceremony for New Officers of GOPIO-Manhattan, from l. to r.: Dr Thomas Abraham, Prakash Shah, Prof. Rajasekhar Vangapaty and Vichal Kumar
Board of Trustees, and Board Members of GOPIOManhattan for the 2026–2027 term.
New York Democratic Congressional Primary candidate Vichal Kumar also addressed the gathering, congratulating the new leadership team and emphasizing the importance of greater community participation in civic engagement and the political process.
The newly elected Executive Committee is headed by Prof. Rajasekhar Vangapaty as President. His team members are: Executive Vice President – Bhavya Gupta, Vice President – Dr Vimal Goyle, Secretary – Raj Punjabi, Treasurer – Braj Aggarwal, Joint Secretary – Gagan Gujral
The new Trustees are: Shivender Sofat, Dr Thomas Abraham, Mukund Mehta, Siddarth Jain, Anil Narang and Neha Motwani.
Appointed Board Members are Dr Lisa George, Dr Arnab Ghosh, Manoj Jareth Asig and
Jasvir Ubhi.
Following the oath-taking ceremony, newly sworn-in President Prof. Rajasekhar Vangapaty welcomed the new leadership team and expressed his sincere gratitude to the Election Committee—Dr. Thomas Abraham (Chair), Shivender Sofat, and Mukund Mehta— for conducting a smooth and successful election process. He also congratulated all newly elected members for accepting their responsibilities and reaffirmed his commitment to serving GOPIO-Manhattan and the broader community.
Prof. Vangapaty invited several distinguished attendees to offer felicitations during the ceremony, including GOPIO-Manhattan’s First and Immediate Past President Shivender Sofat (via telephone), GOPIO Life Member Mrudul Pathak, and Congressional Primary candidate Vichal Kumar. They conveyed their congratulations, appreciation, and best wishes to the new leadership team, commending
GOPIO-Manhattan’s continued efforts in community service, cultural engagement, and leadership development.
The ceremony concluded on a positive and inspiring note, with members expressing enthusiasm and dedication to working together toward meaningful community service and impactful programs in the coming year. Guests enjoyed refreshments, tea, and coffee, providing an opportunity for networking and fellowship.
Prof. Rajasekhar Vangapaty expressed special thanks to Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Executive Director Minesh Patel and the entire Board of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan for graciously providing the venue and facilities for GOPIO-Manhattan’s networking and oath-taking ceremony.
GOPIO-Manhattan Membership is open to everyone. For more info or to become a member, contact Prof. Raj Vangapaty at 917348-0759 or vangapaty@ gmail.com.
A SERIES OF FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS, WITH FORMAL INVITATION AND OFFICIAL PRESENCE FROM THE GOPIO INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Margie Nightingale MP, Wai Kiong Chan, Vietnamese community leader, Umesh Chandra OAM, Shona Leppänen-Gibson at the Vietnamese Day of Remembrance
Elected representatives and officials at the 9th Australian National Hindu Conference
Umesh Chandra OAM, executive vice president of GOPIO International, and Pradip Gorasia, immediate past president of GOPIO Gold Coast, were officially invited as special guests at the BAPS Research Institute, which explored the timeless teachings of the Gurus
GOPIO International and GOPIO Brisbane were officially called to lay a wreath at the Vietnamese Day of Remembrance
Umesh Chandra OAM was a speaker at the 9th Australian National Hindu Conference.
Umesh Chandra OAM GOPIO Int EVP attended the welcome reception for international students by the Brisbane Lord Mayor at Brisbane City Hall
GOPIO COMMUNITY CONNECT LEADERSHIP IN ACTION
A SERIES OF FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS, WITH FORMAL INVITATION AND OFFICIAL PRESENCE FROM THE GOPIO INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Mayor Jon Raven of Logan City poses for a selfie with Umesh Chandra OAM
GOPIO representation at the reception for the Greek Ambassador to Australia
GOPIO team at the Cane festival gala dinner
GOPIO Team Joined by Logan Mayor Jon Raven at the annual cane gala fundraiser in Beenleigh
GOPIO representation at the monthly citizenship ceremony at Brisbane City Hall
Umesh Chandra OAM, GOPIO International EVP, was the community representative and speaker alongside all other elected representatives at the Mother Language Day by ESAQ
GOPIO representation at the Vesak (Buddhist) celebration at Queensland Parliament House
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