GOPIO News Bulletin SEPTEMBER 2025

GOPIO NEWS BULLETIN

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

Editor's Note

GOPIO International News Bulletin, Independence Day Special

We are at this point in time very troubled globally, with turmoil in the Gaza Strip, political unrest in Nepal, and rising anti-immigrant sentiment in England and Australia. In times like these, GOPIO International can and must play a pivotal role by modeling calm, compassion, and constructive engagement. While we do not engage directly in political advocacy or confrontations, we advise our community toward responsible behavior: avoid overreaction, uphold the laws of the land, and maintain our dignity and pride. Our aim has always been to curb tension and misunderstanding, not to inflame or provoke.

From the Editor:

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. 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

Racism is raising its ugly head in various corners of the world, and that is something we will stand against with clear and unequivocal resolve. The national pride of any country cannot be the domain of a select few; it should not be judged on the basis of colour, creed, religion, or religious belief. In moments of crisis, it is precisely our shared humanity that must guide our actions, reminding us that unity in diversity is our strongest strength.

I commend GOPIO International’s senior leaders for their measured and principled stance following the emergency meeting. Their emphasis on restraint, dialogue, and compassion sets a standard for all our councils and chapters to emulate. In the face of provocation or fear, leadership that prioritizes values over agitation is what sustains communities and preserves social harmony.

20 OCT 2025

15 OCT 2025

Email: ceo@chantex.com.au

The ongoing challenges remind us that information and representation matter. We must be vigilant against misinformation and stereotyping, and we must also be mindful of the vulnerable voices within our own communities. GOPIO International remains committed to providing guidance that helps our members navigate complex social landscapes with integrity and respect.

Congratulations to GOPIO International on successfully conducting the monthly online webinars. It is heartening to see the caliber of speakers and the breadth of connections being formed across our network. These webinars are not only informative; they are a vital catalyst for dialogue, collaboration, and mutual support among councils and chapters. They offer a platform where issues can be discussed openly, solutions explored, and best practices shared.

On the topic of councils, we plan to convene a virtual meeting of all councils in the near future. This gathering has been long overdue, and its success will depend on thoughtful preparation, inclusive participation, and clear collaborative objectives. I envision this as an opportunity to align priorities, share successes, learn from challenges, and foster a sense of shared purpose across the entire GOPIO family. CONTD. ON PGS 24

GOPIO QUEENSLAND’S ICONIC INDIA DAY FAIR 2025 TRIUMPHS AS A GRAND CULTURAL SHOWCASE

Honourable dignitaries on the dais

BRISBANE, QLD, Australia ­ The Iconic India Day Fair 2025, organised by GOPIO Queensland, proved to be a monumental daylong celebration that seamlessly blended tradition, performance, civic pride, and community engagement. Spanning dawn to dusk, the event showcased the rich tapestry of Indian culture through a meticulously crafted program featuring morning performances,

a grand official opening, afternoon showcases, a parade, and a high-energy closing sequence. The festival drew thousands of attendees and earned wide praise for its organisation, cultural depth, and broad cross-cultural participation, including strong government presence.

The day began with a ceremonial opening and an official program, setting the tone for cultural exchange and respect for

Indigenous heritage. A Welcome to Country by Aunty Heather greeted attendees with warmth and acknowledgement of the region’s Indigenous roots.

Sidharth, as MC, provided an opening update as the event got underway, signalling a day of cultural exchange and community engagement. The morning segment featured welcoming remarks from Irene Bayldon and a short, heartfelt address by Cr Vicki Howard. Anjana

Tripathi recited poetry, and a variety of performances— from kids to adults— contributed to a dynamic morning lineup.

Kids-focused performances featured numerous local dance troupes and groups, including Rich Virsa Junior Champs, Bris Academy (Kids), Wildflowers, Orioz (for both Kids and Adults), Prana Kids, and more. These acts were complemented

by traditional and contemporary performances, as well as multiple dance slots, to maintain a highenergy, family-friendly atmosphere.

A highlight of the afternoon was the muchanticipated parade, which arrived at the stage around 14:45, greeted by cheers from attendees lining the Amphitheatre. The procession signalled the

transition to the formal program and the start of the evening’s official ceremonies.

The official program continued, with VIPs escorted to their seating areas, accompanied by a welcome dance performed by the Rajasthani Dance Troupe. The National Anthem and Flag Raising, followed by a ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolised the day’s celebratory spirit.

A Lifetime Achievement citation for Dr Maha Sinnathamby AM was announced by Archana Ji, followed by the presentation of the award by Mayor Jon Raven (Logan) and Cr Pye Augustine (Ipswich City). Dr Maha's speech and response underscored the fair’s emphasis on community leadership and cultural contribution.

The sponsors' certificates were distributed later in the program, with Savi and Nidhi assisting Sharmeen Thomas in presenting these acknowledgments.

The cultural program continued with Bharatanatyam performances by students from the Nadananjali School of Dance and Odissi by Anwesha Das, enriching the afternoon with classical Indian dance forms.

The program’s afternoon segment gave way to further musical and dance performances, featuring groups such as Sangeet Premi Club, ABCD Adults, and Tapori Squad. The performance by Tapori Squad was a grand spectacle

Qld Senator- Paul Scarr

Brisbane Lord Mayor – The Right Honourable Adrian Schrinner

Federal Treasurer – Hon Jim Chalmers MP

Federal speaker of the house – Hon Milton Dick MP

featuring over 46 dancers on one stage. The segment, dedicated to soldiers and their mothers, received a huge round of applause and a standing ovation. The event culminated in a high-energy showcase by the Rajasthani Dance Troupe, delivering a vibrant, 50-minute closing sequence that energised attendees as the evening progressed.

Leadership for the event was provided by Umesh Chandra OAM (overall coordinator) and Yousuf Alikhan, the programming coordinator, whose teams collaborated to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.

The festival benefited from substantial government participation, with

2025 Highlight performance – Rajahstani troupe arranged via ICCR and Consulate General of India in Queensland

Consulate General of India in Queensland, Mrs Neeti Bhagotia Ji, with Charis Mullen MP

representatives from three levels of government in attendance, highlighting its significance as a broad public-interest cultural event. Feedback from participants and attendees highlighted the fair’s organisational strength, the breadth of performances, and the strong sense of community fostered by GOPIO Queensland.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Yousuf Alikhan, followed by a final wave of cultural performances, including continued showcases from the Rajasthani Dance Troupe. Attendees departed with a renewed sense of community and pride in Indian heritage, having witnessed a wellorganised celebration that showcased Queensland’s Indian diaspora and its allied partners.

The Iconic India Day Fair 2025 was widely described as a milestone in GOPIO Queensland’s ongoing mission to celebrate culture, foster unity, and strengthen cross-cultural ties within Queensland and beyond.

Overall, the Iconic India Day Fair 2025 stood out as a grand cultural showcase that successfully wove together traditional and contemporary performances, formal recognitions, a vibrant parade, and robust community and governmental engagement—cementing GOPIO Queensland’s role in celebrating and promoting Indian heritage within Queensland’s diverse cultural landscape.

One of the many delightful performances

Dignitaries line up at the beginning of the parade

Lord Mayor Rt Hon Adrian Schrinner hosted the Australian Falg while Consulate general of India in Queensland hosted the Indian Flag during the formalities

Organisers – Umesh and Usha Chandra enjoying the show

Tapori squad with their fantastic performance

Cairns Indian Festival 2025 Welcomes Over 10,000 Visitors in a Celebration of Culture and Unity

CAIRNS, QLD ­ The Cairns Indian Festival 2025, hosted by GOPIO Cairns Inc., has marked a new milestone, with over 10,000 people attending at Fogarty Park to celebrate Indian culture, food, music, and community spirit.

The festival opened with a grand inauguration ceremony, featuring the Acknowledgement of Country, the thunder of the Dhol Tasha drummers, and the presence of distinguished dignitaries, sponsors, and community leaders. The

opening set the stage for a day-long celebration of unity, diversity, and cultural pride.

The performers lit up the stage with breathtaking cultural showcases, from graceful classical dances to high-energy Bollywood and Bhangra routines, electrifying drumming, and soulful music. Artists from across Queensland and interstate shared their talents, uniting the crowd through rhythm, colour, and artistry.

The stall holders played a vital role in bringing

the festival alive, offering a feast for the senses. Visitors enjoyed a rich variety of Indian street food, curries, sweets, spices, saris, jewellery, henna, handicrafts, and keepsakes.

The marketplace created an authentic cultural experience that highlighted the richness of Indian heritage and hospitality.

During the evening, the festival also honoured its own through the Awards & Recognitions, acknowledging the tireless contributions of volunteers, performers,

sponsors, and community supporters. These awards celebrated not just achievement, but also the values of service, culture, and community that make the festival possible.

“This year we welcomed over 10,000 people, making it our biggest festival yet,” said Subash Chetry, President of GOPIO Cairns Inc. “This shows the strength of Cairns’ multicultural spirit. The festival is more than food, music, and danceit is about unity in diversity, and we are proud to see the community come together in such a powerful way.”

The Cairns Indian Festival also carried a strong message of giving back, with 50% of raffle proceeds donated to the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, supporting vital

health services in the region.

GOPIO Cairns Inc. extends heartfelt thanks to volunteers, performers, stall holders, sponsors, dignitaries, and the wider community for making the Cairns Indian Festival 2025 a record-breaking success. Together, we have shown how Cairns can truly Experience India in the Tropics.

For more details, please contact Subash on 0469 217 141

GOPIO-CT celebrated India’s 78th Anniversary and India Festival in Stamford on August 10

Stamford, CT — GOPIOCT, one of the most active chapters of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International), continued its vibrant community work as it marked the 78th anniversary of India's independence. GOPIO International, which spans 100 chapters across 35 countries, highlighted India's journey to freedom, noting that India gained independence from the British in 1947. To commemorate the occasion, GOPIO-CT joined forces with the City of Stamford and the Mill River Park Collaborative to host the

India Festival in Stamford. The event honoured the moment when Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru raised the Indian flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi on August 15, 1947.

Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International and Trustee/ Advisor to GOPIOCT, commented on the achievements of the Indian American community in Corporate America and politics. He observed that in Connecticut, the community consisted of IT and management professionals, healthcare workers, and a substantial number

of entrepreneurs in the hospitality, hedge fund, and small business sectors.

The celebration began with a flag-hoisting ceremony at Stamford Government Centre on Sunday, August 10, featuring American, Indian, and Connecticut flags. Following the flag-raising, an official ceremony to celebrate Indian Independence Day took place in the adjacent Mill River Park Carousel Hall. Honoured guests included India’s Consul General in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, who served as the Chief Guest. Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, Norwalk Mayor

Harry Rilling, Connecticut State Majority Leader Bob Duff (Senate 25th District, Norwalk/Darien), Senate Deputy Majority Leader Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (Senate 23rd District, Bridgeport/ Trumbull/Monroe), and State Representatives Hector Arzeno (151st District, Greenwich) and Hubert Delany (144th District, Stamford) attended as Guests of Honor.

After the ceremony, the festivities continued with kite flying and an India Festival at Mill River Park, featuring colourful folk and classical dances from India, music, and Bollywood performances. A marketplace offered Indian food, arts and crafts, clothing, and other items. Admission to both events was free, and limited carousel rides were provided for small children.

The festival also recognised community contributions through the Indian Independence Liberty Award for 2025, which was awarded to Darien resident Joseph Simon. Simon, a technology professional with extensive experience in the media sector, had held senior roles in both US and European companies. His charitable work included roles as a board member, disbursement panellist, and trustee for GOPIO-CT, Asha

for Education ­ NYC, and the Community Fund of Darien. He had founded the Stamford Cricket Club Mad Dogs and remained involved in its operations. Simon also chaired FIA Global, a social impact company headquartered in Gurgaon, India.

The Mill River Park Collaborative organised the celebration, with sponsorship from First County Bank, Hampton Inn and Suites, Stamford Mortgages, Keller Williams Prestige Properties, and Associate Sonali Zullurwar. GOPIOCT President and program chair were Sonali Gannu and Sushanth Krishnamurthy, with co-chairing by Board Member Sonali Gannu. The ceremony also featured recognition for Connecticut’s 2025 high school graduates, with certificates and Amazon gift cards. GOPIO-CT urged anyone with information about 2025 high school graduates from Connecticut school systems to contact Mahesh Jhangiani or visit the organisation’s website.

Over the past 19 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International, has established itself as an active and dynamic organisation. It hosted interactive sessions with policymakers and academics, community events,

Over the past 19 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International, has established itself as an active and dynamic organisation. It hosted interactive sessions with policymakers and academics, community events, youth mentoring programs, and networking workshops, while collaborating with other regional organisations to foster a better future.

youth mentoring programs, and networking workshops, while collaborating with other regional organisations to foster a better future.

GOPIO-CT described itself as a non-partisan, secular civic and community service organisation dedicated to promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs, and the contributions of people of Indian origin through community programs, forums, events, and youth activities. It aimed to strengthen partnerships and sustain an ongoing dialogue with local communities.

Rotary Club Sponsors Community Feeding Program by GOPIO Manhattan in Tompkins Square Park

New York, NY — A bright Friday morning in Tompkins Square Park was made warmer not just by sunshine, but also by the spirit of giving, as the Rotary Club of North Shore sponsored a Community Feeding Program organised by GOPIOManhattan. The event, held on Friday, September 5, 2025, offered a vegetarian lunch to

those in need and drew more than 60 attendees.

The meal, prepared by volunteers from Interfaith Services in a nearby kitchen, provided nutritious vegetarian fare to park-goers and passersby seeking a midday meal. On-site volunteers from the Rotary Club helped serve guests, along with GOPIO-Manhattan Program

Chair Dr. Vimal Goyle and GOPIO’s Council for Seniors head Mukund Mehta, who were present to oversee the distribution and engage with beneficiaries.

The monthly sponsorship, which covered the food ingredients for the meal, was valued at $300. Sponsors have the option to honour a loved one who has passed

away or celebrate a birthday through their contribution. While sponsors are welcome to participate in serving, their presence is not required for the program to proceed.

GOPIO-Manhattan traces its Community Feeding Program to its inception in December 2020, a milestone the chapter marked as it continues to advocate for nourishment and community connection. Those

interested in sponsoring future meals were encouraged to contact Dr. Vimal Goyle, the program chair and chapter Vice President, at 316-371-7098 or via email at info@gopiomanhattan.org. Additional sponsorship details and online options were also noted on the chapter’s communications.

As the sun washed over the park, the event stood

as a testament to crosscommunity collaboration, with the Rotary Club of North Shore partnering with GOPIOManhattan to ensure that a healthy meal reached those who needed it most. For many attendees, the gathering offered not only sustenance but a moment of shared care and human connection on a peaceful autumn-forward morning.

GOPIO International engages Indian Consulate officials in Manhattan to advance diaspora initiatives

New York, NY — In a productive show of collaboration between the global Indian diaspora and the Indian government, GOPIO International’s leadership met with senior officials from the Indian Consulate in Manhattan. The delegation, led by GOPIO International Chairperson Dr. Thomas Abraham and GOPIO International President Prakash Shah, engaged in discussions that underscore the organization’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between overseas Indians and India’s diplomatic missions.

The visit included a meeting with Ashok Amritraj, a prominent figure in the IndianAmerican community with deep ties to both business and public service. The discussions also involved officials from the Indian Consulate in Manhattan, with a focus on furthering GOPIO’s development programs and community outreach initiatives.

During the visit, the officials were presented with a souvenir booklet commemorating the GOPIO International Convention 2025, held in Brisbane, Australia, in March 2025. Dr. Thomas Abraham shared remarks expressing the group’s commitment and the substantial effort that GOPIO

dedicates to its mission.

“I had a very hectic day yesterday,” Dr. Abraham noted. “Met Prakash and Rajul in Manhattan for a meeting with Ashok Amritraj and then with Indian Consulate officials. Came back late evening because of the traffic. To do GOPIO work, it is a big commitment of our time. Yesterday the whole day was spent. Good part was that we achieved a lot.”

The meeting reflects GOPIO International’s ongoing strategy to align diaspora engagement with India’s diplomatic and cultural outreach. By presenting the Brisbane 2025 souvenir booklet, GOPIO highlighted the role of international conventions in fostering community connections, knowledge sharing, and advocacy on issues important to the global Indian diaspora. While details of the discussions remain private,

officials indicated that the dialogue touched on collaboration frameworks for cultural programs, business development, education, and veteran and senior citizen services within GOPIO’s global network. The Manhattan meeting also signals continued coordination between GOPIO and Indian missions abroad to support diaspora initiatives that benefit both the community and India’s bilateral relations.

GOPIO International’s leadership is expected to continue engaging with Indian consular offices and other stakeholders as part of its broader goal: empowering the global Indian community through strategic partnerships, service, and sustained engagement across continents. More updates are anticipated as the organization advances its plans in the coming months.

Pitroda at GOPIO’s AI Webinar Called for Shifting Our Thinking from “Profit & Power to Planet & People”

New York, NY - The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) held its webinar series on August 9th, 2025, with a compelling session titled “What AI Can Do For You?” The event gathered leading experts across researchers, innovators, users, and community thought leaders to engage in a discussion on the impact of AI in day-to-day lives across the globe.

Moderated by Tech Entrepreneur, AI & Data Science Leader, and Founder & CEO of DevJee Inc., Kathirvel Kumararaja, the webinar addressed the importance, use cases, as well as the fears of AI (Artificial Intelligence) faced by citizens of all ages across the globe.

Dr. Thomas Abraham, GOPIO’s Founder Chairman, framed the initiative with a clear message: “Our goal is to create a global platform that not only informs but equips the Indian diaspora to use AI in daily lives. Through these webinars, GOPIO remained a catalyst for connection, advocacy, and community resilience.”

Prakash Shah, President of GOPIO, emphasised the series’ vital role in responding to

community needs: “This series is more than information—it’s a lifeline. We were committed to educating our communities across borders and shaping a proactive response to the use of AI in daily lives. In addition, we wanted to offer learning opportunities across various topics through our Monthly Webinars and increase awareness among the Indian diaspora.”

Sunil Vuppula, Host of Monthly Webinars at GOPIO, commented, “As anxiety and excitement dominated the AI wave, we assembled a panel of rock star experts, academicians and practitioners who had brilliant engineering minds as well as a robust imaginative side to their contribution.”

In his initial remarks, Moderator Kathirvel Kumararaja highlighted, “Smart adoption of AI isn’t optional; it’s the new baseline for survival and growth in any industry.”

Chief Guest at the Webinar was Dr. Sam Pitroda, an internationally respected telecom inventor, entrepreneur, development thinker and policy maker who had spent 50 years in information and communications technology

(ICT) and related global and national developments. Credited with having laid the foundation for India’s telecommunications and technology revolution of the 1980s, Dr. Pitroda had been a leading campaigner to help bridge the global digital divide. Dr. Pitroda opened the webinar with remarks reflecting on the case of AI in daily lives and empowered the speakers and listeners to focus on the “use of AI for People and Planet over Profits and Power.” Dr. Pitroda further added in conversation with Kumararaja, “Kumar, we are gone, you guys need to carry the baton. The younger generation at the helm of AI research holds the key to shaping a future where technology is a force for good—transforming hunger and poverty from persistent challenges into solvable problems.”

Dr. Siddhartha Dalal, a professor and leading AI researcher at Columbia University with over 100 publications and patents, and a distinguished career spanning academia, industry, and innovation, spoke on the latest AI trends. Prof. Dalal, an advisor to many companies and the US Government on

technologies, shared use-cases of AI across industries and talked about the advancements he had seen across industries and also from his students who enrolled in his class and went on to become entrepreneurs in their respective businesses with the use of AI while following their passion and dreams.

Ms. Vatsala Upadhyay ­ founder & CEO of AI Junoon & Advisor to humanizetech.ai and AI Enthusiast with over three decades of global experience. Vatsala said, “AI is like a pressure cooker in an Indian kitchen. It hisses, it’s mysterious, and you are afraid it might explode. But once you know how to use it, it’s your best friend in the kitchen of ideas.” She further added, “Sometimes, the most meaningful AI stories aren’t about changing the world in one grand leap. They are about changing one person’s world and letting the ripples take care of the rest.”

time ChatGPT may give you inaccurate answers is no reason to walk away from it: Ganga water has some garbage in it, but we don’t say we’ll never use water from the Ganga again.”

Speaker Rahul Shukla was President & CEO of S. S. White Technologies and Shukla Medical Products. He was a successful industrialist, a noted writer and an excellent public speaker. He had encyclopaedic knowledge of old Bollywood movies. Mr. Shukla spoke about the role of AI in his personal and professional life by stating, “Just because 5% of the

The final speaker, Prashant Gupta, was a Distinguished Internet Innovator, public policy advisor and awardwinning author. As an Internet Innovator with over 25 years of experience in computing, Prashant has played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of mobile, cloud, and AI, which empowers modern life, with key contributions to the Motorola Razr and Microsoft Azure. He cofounded Microsoft Accelerator

for Startups in 2012 in collaboration with Global Centres in Israel and China. Mr. Gupta said, “The youth must act now—even without coding skills. Start with projects that are simple, free, and scalable so they can grow from a weekend experiment into a community-impact movement. Think in three steps: (1) Data Quality ­ Ensure you have the right, reliable dataset.

(2) Accessible AI

Leverage hyperscale cloud platforms to build custom models or tap into pre-trained ones. (3) Solution Experience ­ Design how your insights will be experienced across multiple devices and formats.”

Key Action Items and Initiatives

• In a year or two, if we were not using AI in our daily lives, we would feel like secondclass citizens in a first-class world.

• Smart adoption of AI wasn’t optional; it was the new baseline for survival and growth in any industry

• I did not want ChatGPT / DeepSeek / Gemini or such tools to answer my questions. I wanted them to become my teacher and make me smarter.

• At AI Junoon, we were not just teaching AI. We were nurturing a mindset that said,

Webinar Chief Guest Innovator Dr. Sam Pitroda

‘I can learn, I can adapt, I can thrive.

• GOPIO would host a monthly webinar series covering technology, youth leadership, and healthcare investment

• Next webinar on Ancient Wisdom ­ Modern Maladies. India’s alternative approaches to health problems set for Saturday, September 13, 2025

• Plans launched for international symposium on AI, quantum computing, and tech innovations in early 2026

• Efforts underway to establish GOPIO chapters in Boston, Nashville, South Jersey and Pune through local WhatsApp network. Those interested in joining could contact Sid Jain or visit the

GOPIO.net website. The event concluded with calls for collaboration, education, and ongoing dialogue among diaspora communities.

GOPIO General Secretary Sid Jain gave the concluding remarks and vote of thanks to all in attendance, reiterating the key point stated by Sam Pitroda, Chief Guest: shift our thinking from Profit & Power to Planet & People, and he added that we all humans should follow the quote: “With Great Power comes Great Responsibility.” The event concluded with calls for collaboration, education, and ongoing dialogue among Diaspora communities.

About GOPIO ­ Founded

in 1989, GOPIO is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit, secular organisation with Individual Life Members and chapter delegates from over 100 chapters in 36 countries. GOPIO’s volunteers are committed to enhancing cooperation and communication between NRIs/PIOs and the local communities, building networks, bonds, friendships, alliances, and the camaraderie of citizens and colleagues alike. GOPIO volunteers believe that when they help network the global Indian community, they facilitate making tomorrow a better world for the Indian Diaspora, the countries they live in and India.

Seventeenth Annual Mushaira–

Kavi Sammelan Celebrates South Asia’s Shared Heritage in Washington, DC

The Metro Washington chapters of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-Metro Washington) and the Aligarh Alumni Association (AAA-DC) jointly hosted the 17th Annual Mushaira­Kavi Sammelan on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Montgomery County Executive Building Auditorium in Rockville, Maryland. The program was co-sponsored by several local literary and cultural organizations, including the Association of Indian Muslims (AIM), the Hyderabad Association of the Washington Metro Area (HAWMA), the Montgomery Nawabs (MONA), the Global Beat Foundation (GBF), the Bazm-e-Harf-o-Sukhan (BHS), and RR K Biosciences.

Origins and Growth Program Coordinator Dr. Zafar Iqbal welcomed the audience. He recalled the event’s origins in 2008 as a forum to commemorate Yaum-e-Azadi (South Asia’s Independence Day) through poetry in both Urdu and Hindi. Conceived by Drs. Renuka Misra and Zafar Iqbal (GOPIOMetro Washington) and Dr. A. Abdullah (AAA-DC), the Mushaira­Kavi Sammelan has since become an annual

tradition celebrating South Asia’s shared Ganga­Jamuni cultural heritage.

A milestone was reached in 2011, when the Embassy of India joined GOPIO and AAA-DC to host the first international bilingual poetry recitation— an initiative inspired by Dr. Virandar Paul (my colleague from the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi), then Minister at the Indian

Dr. Zafar Iqbal

Dr. Naval presiding

Embassy in Washington. This recognition solidified the event as a platform for cultural diplomacy.

This year, Mr. Vivek Chaudhary, First Secretary at the Embassy of India, applauded the organizers for presenting an inspiring and meaningful program.

Literary Contributions

A defining feature of the Mushaira­Kavi Sammelan has been its encouragement of literary talent in the diaspora, often marked by book launches of both emerging and established writers. Over the years, the stage has hosted acclaimed authors and poets such as Prof. Satyapal Anand, Prof. Asghar Wajahat, Dr. A. Abdullah, Dr. K. Mohan, Raj Kumar Qais, Anadi Naik, Dr. Astha Naval, Dhananjaya Kumar, Rashmi Sanan, Farah Kamran, Surinder Deol, Daler Deol Aashna, Salman Akhtar, and Prof. Gopichand Narang.

The 2025 session featured an impressive lineup of poets, including A. Abdullah, Astha Naval, Harish Naval, Madhu Maheshwari, Mohammed Akbar, Mohammed Jaweed, Narendra Tandon, Nisha Narayan, Preethi Govindaraj, Razi Raziuddin, Rizwan Ali, Sarwat Parvez, Sarwat Zehra, Shamsa Najam, Sneh Sudha, Sukesh Chopra, Tabassum, Uday Kamath, Vinita Tiwari, Vishakha Thaker, and Yusuf Rahat.

Highlights of 2025 Program

The session was presided over by Dr. Harish Naval, an acclaimed satirist and author of more than 40 books, as well as a recipient of the Yuva Jnanpith Prize. He enriched the proceedings with his literary

observations.

The program was conducted with elegance by Mohammed Akbar, who also introduced poets with verses of his own.

Dr. Mohammad Haziq served as master of ceremonies, and Dr. Salman Rashid delivered the vote of thanks.

The gathering also paid warm tributes to late senior poets of the Washington area—Professor Satyapal Anand, Aziz Qureshi, and Rakesh Khandelwal—as well as to eminent Urdu scholars Professor C.M. Naim (University of Chicago) and Professor Tahsin Siddiqi (University of Michigan, Ann Arbor).

Guests and Partners

Special guests included representatives of partner organizations and the Embassy of India. Recognized for their continued support were Ms. Ariena Rashid (AAA-DC), Dr. Renuka Misra (GOPIO), Mr. Kaleem Kawaja (AIM), Mr. Mir Zahid Ali (HAWMA), Dr. Mohammad Akbar (MONA), Ms.

Nuzaira Azam (GBF), Dr. Arif Mahmood (BHS), and Dr. Qazi Hamid (R K Biosciences).

Cultural Impact

By bringing together poets from both Urdu and Hindi traditions, the Mushaira­Kavi Sammelan bridges linguistic divides and highlights the deep interconnections between vocabulary, idiom, and poetic form. Over the years, it has drawn audiences ranging from students and families to immigrants, longtime residents, and diplomats, fostering interfaith understanding and intergenerational bonds within the diaspora. Its continuity and inclusiveness ensure that South Asia’s literary heritage remains vibrant in the Washington, DC area.

The author gratefully acknowledges Mr. Aslam Azad and Mr. Mohammad Haziq for providing photographs.

Zafar Iqbal, PhD (AIIMS) 1509 Coat Ridge Road, Herndon, VA 20170 Raabta.india@gmail.com

Audiences

Mr. Chaudhary and Dr. Renuka Misra at 2025

GOPIO Chapters Highlighted at Queensland Premier’s Community Reception

In a night that celebrated the vibrant tapestry of Queensland’s multicultural communities, the Premier’s Community Reception on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, shone a spotlight on outstanding contributions to the state’s economy, culture, and overall vitality. Among the honorees were GOPIO International, GOPIO Queensland, and GOPIO Gold Coast, recognized for their enduring commitment to community development and social cohesion.

The event, hosted by the

Premier of Queensland, the Hon. David Crisafulli MP, drew a crowd of dozens of community leaders, MPs, and ministers. Attendees included Premier Crisafulli himself, along with Assistant

Minister the Hon. Christian Rowan MP, and a slate of MPs who have long been champions of Queensland’s diverse communities, such as the Hon. Steve Minnikin MP, Assistant Minister Trevor

Watts MP, the Hon. Sam O’Connor MP, and the Hon. Fiona Simpson MP. Federal participation also featured Shadow Minister Senator the Hon. Paul Scarr.

In remarks to the gathering, attendees celebrated the extensive work being done by multicultural organizations across Queensland. “There is so much good work being done within our vibrant multicultural communities in Queensland,” speakers noted, underscoring the role these groups play in enriching the state’s economy, culture, and social fabric.

A sentiment that resonated throughout the evening was the bridge between public life and civic leadership. Attendees reflected on the demanding nature of public service, acknowledging that many elected officials and their staff strive to balance demanding schedules with a commitment to the people

they serve. In particular, Senator Paul Scarr spent the evening in high spirits with friends and colleagues, even as he celebrated his birthday, a reminder of the personal connections that undergird public life.

As the state continues to navigate opportunities and challenges, the Premier’s Community Reception underscored a shared commitment to unity,

collaboration, and the values that make Queensland’s multicultural landscape a strength. The event highlighted not only the achievements of GOPIO International, GOPIO Queensland, and GOPIO Gold Coast, but also the broader, ongoing work of countless community organizations contributing to Queensland’s dynamic economy, culture, and social harmony.

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Kudos also to GOPIO Cairns and GOPIO Queensland for their respective successful events. While GOPIO Queensland’s event is iconic and well-established, GOPIO Cairns’ efforts this year are particularly commendable for making a measurable impact in the local community. GOPIO Queensland is taking the lead in organizing the annual Gandhi Jayanti, a project supported by many Indian Key Community organizations and coordinated in association with the Consul General of India in Queensland. This collaboration highlights the potential of cross-community partnerships to advance education, culture, and civic engagement.

Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our programmatic reach while staying true to our core values. Moving forward from this issue, our monthly News Bulletin will be released on the 20th

of every month. Please submit your articles in a timely manner. The News Bulletin is a valuable platform to showcase what your chapters are doing, share inspiring stories, and illuminate the positive contributions of the Indian diaspora across the globe. Your contributions help tell our collective story to the wider world, and they help foster a sense of belonging and pride within our communities. As mentioned earlier, please forward articles in Word format with JPEG photos attached, ensuring that captions are clear and informative.

We also recognize the vital role of youth, women, and senior members in shaping the direction of GOPIO International. I encourage chapters to feature voices from all generations, to highlight mentorship, volunteer service, and leadership development initiatives. By nurturing inclusive leadership and providing opportunities for meaningful involvement, we

strengthen the very fabric of our global network.

In the spirit of Independence Day, let us renew our commitment to the ideals of liberty, equality, and opportunity for all. Let us remember that true patriotism is expressed not through exclusion or fear, but through service to the wider community, through empathy for those who are marginalized, and through steadfast adherence to the rule of law. Our dignity as a global Indian diaspora is best honored when we extend a hand of friendship across lines of difference and work together for a more just and peaceful world. With these thoughts, I sign off for this month. Thank you all for your continued support and for the many ways you contribute to GOPIO’s mission. Until next month, happy reading, and may our shared endeavors bring light, learning, and lasting positive change to the communities we serve.

In the spirit of Independence Day, let us renew our commitment to the ideals of liberty, equality, and opportunity for all. Let us remember that true patriotism is expressed not through exclusion or fear, but through service to the wider community, through empathy for those who are marginalized, and through steadfast adherence to the rule of law.

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