Rajasthan Association of North America Deep Mahotsav

TIMES SQUARE

Rajasthan Association of North America

Deep Mahotsav

Rajasthan

MESSAGE

The Rajasthan Association of North America is a very prominent and a well-known Association. The Association is wholly devoted to preserving, maintaining, and promoting the cultural heritage of Rajasthan State. I am sure during the tenure of Mr. Prem Bhandari RANA will attain much greater height and set examples the selfless service of humanity.

I was delighted to learn that RANA is celebrating “Deep Mahotsav” on 20November 2022. I wish all the members of RANA good health, peace, and prosperity.

Rajasthani culture, food, music, and dress have fascinated people from India and other parts of the world. Rajasthani hospitality is legendary.Attithi Devo Bhava which means“treat your guest as you treat God” is part of the DNA of every Rajasthani.

Rajasthani architecture is influenced by the mixed variety of people who have stayed and ruled over the State of Rajasthan. Prime examples being the Ranakpur Jain Temple, Patwon-ki-Haveli and the Temples of Jaisalmer. Six hill forts of Rajasthan have been given the status of World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Rajasthan is also known for its arts, handicrafts, and paintings, forits pottery, and for its jewellery. Festivals of Rajasthan have religious, social, and cultural importance and significance and are celebrated with grandeur. Rajasthan has also rich literature both in prose and poetry. Rajasthan can be legitimately called the cultural capital of India.

RANA has done so much work to preserve and promote the wonderful and colourful Rajasthani culture. Rajasthani is spoken almost by 100 million people all over the world.I would like RANA to take the initiative of getting constitutional status for Rajasthani.

With all good wishes and greetings to the members of RANA.

Mr. Pre m Bhandari Pr esident

Rajasthan Association of North A me rica New York, U SA

Dalveer Bhandari

Dr. Jagdeesh Chandra CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Bharat 24 & First India CMD, First India News

Dear Shri Prem Bhandari Ji

I am very pleased to know that Rajasthan Association North America (RANA), as part of its continuous endeavour to promote Indian traditions and culture in USA and also connect the Rajasthanis to their roots, is organising the Deep Mahotsav - Diwali Gala in New York, on 20th November 2022.

Under your leadership with the wonderful team of RANA, I am confident that it will be a super-success and also a perfect event for families and friends not just to connect but also share precious memorable moments.

I wish all members of RANA and all your guests at the event a very Happy Deepawali.

Best Wishes

JAGDEESH CHANDRA

Residence : 4-Ya-1A , Monilek Marg, Jawahar Nagar, Jaipur-302004 Tel. : 0141-2651850, Mobile : +91-96808 23000

MESSAGE

I note with pleasure that the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) continues to be a vibrant social catalyst in USA and is connecting the Rajasthani diaspora to their roots. I treasure my association with RANA and know how effective an organisation RANA is.

I am also happy to note that RANA shall be organising Deep Mahotsava Diwali Gala in New York on the 20th of November 2022. I am confident that the event shall be a wonderful platform for families and friends to connect, share and exchange pleasantries, gifts and savouries.

On this occasion, I wish all members of RANA and the entire Indian diaspora in USA a very Happy Diwali.

(Vasundhara Raje)

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan Association of North America

04 November, 2022

Dear Shri Prem Bhandari ji,

Thank you very much for your kind invite for “Deep Mahotsav”, organized by the Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) in New York on 20 November, 2022. I am aware that RANA is doing great work in connecting Indian diaspora, and am very happy to note that on the occasion of Deepavali, RANA will be providing a platform for the Indian families in New York to get together and celebrate the occasion. I wish the event a grand success and good health, prosperity and happiness to all members of RANA.

With warm regards,

Executive Director INTERPOL

Madan Oberoi, IPS

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

I wish all RANA members a very happy Deepawali and a happy new year! I wish the new year brings happiness, better health, and wellness. Considering what we all RANA family members and the world have gone through in the last two years. It’s never been more important, and the realization of the importance of family, community, and humanity coming together and the need for togetherness we all have felt. As Rajasthani, giving & caring are part of our core values, which we all learned growing up in our family. In the last two years during COVID, we have seen our RANA members open their wallets, hearts and, above all give time to help the local community around us in the USA and back home in India. It was an exemplary display of our concern and helping capability for humanity as RANA members.

RANA’s mission is “to preserve & promote Rajasthani culture, values, heritage, and traditions to install them in current future generations”. I personally uphold this mission to my heart and make every effort possible to spread and inculcate these values in our youth. This requires youth participation and working with our RANA youth. Our community is blessed and fortunate to have very active, successful, and enthusiastic youth members. We will make every effort to include them and make them feel part of every program we organize. We will focus on building youth leadership and empowering them to develop their own agenda within the RANA programs we organize over the year.

As I mentioned earlier, RANA is well known for its charitable activities in the USA and India. We will prioritize and focus on specific programs with discussion with the RANA committee and raise funds.

RANA plays an essential role in keeping the connection to our home state Rajasthan and our motherland, India, alive. Being in and around New York City and close to Washington, the hub of international political & administrative hub gives us an excellent opportunity to meet, welcome, and host many senior political leaders, administrators, religious & spiritual, and community leaders from India. This helps us enrich and update us with happenings in India and also achieve one of the important roles of RANA as a community organization to build bridges between the USA and India.

I wish the central government would certainly recognize the Rajasthani language, over 10 crore people claim it as their mother tongue and, an issue close to my heart, in the Eighth Schedule. The constitutional recognition for Rajasthani would help further the development of Rajasthani literature, helping Rajasthani language writers and primary education in their mother tongue. I appeal to all the members of the legislative branch from Rajasthan to take up this matter with the highest leadership in government on priority to make this happen. It’s a matter of pride for all of us that today, the Chairman of both the legislative houses, Shri Om Birla ji for Lok Sabha and Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar ji, vice president of India, are from Rajasthan. It's high time and moment in history when we have all that needs this to happen, and we can see a day soon to have Rajasthani Language recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

My special thanks to every member, the Board of Directors, and esteemed Patrons for their continued support and encouragement.

I extend warm greetings and wish you a happy and joyous Deepawali and a great New Year ahead!

Best Wishes,

PREM BHANDARI President

Deepawali Greetings & Best Wishes for A Happy and Prosperous New Year to Members of RANA, NY

Congratulations to Our Honorees: Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Raj Bansal Late Dr. Ajay Lodha Dr. Sadhna Joshi Late Sh. Rajiv Garg Dr. Shubha Jain Late Sh. Dharam Chandji Mr. Rakesh Goenka

Dashrath Dugar Chitra Dugar

Dr. Mohit Dugar Dr. Ajay Jain

Dr. Shaifali Dugar Dr. Nidhi Dugar Ishana & Rishika Dugar Sahil & Suhani Jain

Dear Friends

Diwali!

It’s my honor to welcome you all to RANA’s 21st spectacular Deep Mahotsav Celebration.

Diwali is celebrated by Buddhist, Jains, Hindus and Sikkhs all around the world. We witnessed this year’s lamp lighting ceremonies in the US and around the globe in schools and public offices, including the White House.

Historically, Diwali is celebrated on the 13th day of the month, Kartik, known asDhan-Teras. The word Dhan is abbreviated from the Diety “Dhanvantari” who is the source of knowledge for health and well being as per Ayurveda. This is the start of winter, sun exposure to mother earth is reduced and this change has negative impacts on our mental and physical states. To cope with these changes, human beings have to take certain measures to stay healthy and happy. At some point in time, the real meaning of celebrations for “health” is replaced by “wealth” (Dhan). We should try to be mindful of this importance of health over wealth.

Vasudaiv Kutumbakam means that the whole world is one family. We together have suffered from the Covid-19 Pandemic over the past 2 and half years. Collectively, the RANA family will always remember the losses suffered by this calamity. We are resilient and coming back stronger than ever.

We are very proud of our vibrant culture, heritage, traditions and values and these celebrations preserve them for our future generations. We are a community of giving. A perfect example comes from Rajasthan - Bhama Shah's actions of giving all his wealth to aid Maharana Pratap, taught us selfless service and devotion to duty. Members of RANA are committed to continue charitable endeavors wherever needed. We follow the teaching of this quote “Earn with hundred hands and donate with thousands” .

I wish to congratulate all the Honorees and thank them for being a role model for us. They bring pride to the Rajasthani community. I also wish to thank all our dignitaries for gracing this celebration with their presence.

Todays grand event is the proof of great harmony and team work among RANAs members, board of directors, committee chairs, founders, volunteers, and sponsors. Everyone deserves a huge round of applause. This Diwali, lets spread the message of good over evil, light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and unity over inequality.

Best Wishes, Vijay Arya MD Diwali Chair

Shubh

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT RANA, CANADA

Respected Guests,

As President of RANA Canada, it is indeed an honor and privilege for me to greet you on the Diwali gala & Award Ceremony organized by RANA USA.

I would like to begin by acknowledging and expressing my gratitude for the selfless services offered by our front-line workers, first responders, academics, and researchers, whose efforts helped us emerge victorious after a long and exhausting battle with the COVID-19 pandemic. Their immeasurable contributions have enabled citizens everywhere to resume their activities in a disease-, mask-, and worry-free manner and live a ‘normal’ life as in the pre-pandemic era.

A group of Indo Canadian from Rajasthani Origin inspired by RANA USA meet in 2007 to form the RANA Canada. The purpose was to preserve and propagate the Rajasthani Heritage and maintain its identity. Mission and Vision was to provide a forum to it members, to preserve and to promote the culture values, heritage, traditions of Rajasthan, to instill Rajasthani values in the current and future generation. A platform to develop strong bonds among themselves socially, culturally, economically and also to recognize their excellence.

We are now transitioning to the next set of initiatives and priorities. As we venture through this coming phase, I would like to share some of RANA Canada’s future areas of focus.

Establishing our purpose, projects, and plans for the current members and the incorporation of new members is very important to help the RANA community reach new milestones. As a community, RANA members are doing their best at helping new members integrate with the organization and get involved with our programs and activities. Our share in the economic and social growth of Canadian society is significant, and we strive to go further by pushing our limits and inculcating newer perspectives with the members joining us.

Building a RANA Community Center is among the key important projects we will be undertaking for the betterment of the community as well as to provide a safe and designated space for various RANA socio-cultural, networking, youth integration events, etc.

RANA Awards have been initiated this year for recognizing and honoring dedicated RANA members and people of Rajasthani origin who have established great benchmarks in various fields with their exemplary services and relentless pursuit of growth not just for themselves but also for society. They serve as a role model and inspire everyone with their unbreakable spirit while overcoming all kinds of hurdles in their journey so far. May their experience and wisdom guide RANA members towards the same virtues and strength of character.

We will also be organizing a series of networking events to increase communication and guide the community with professional and business insights for their career pursuits with thorough knowledge and industry experience and the support of successful entrepreneurs and professionals, we will not only be putting this event’s in Canada, also to partner with RANA U.S., also businesses across the globe. RANA CANADA will be organizing RANA Global convention in CANADA in partnership with RANA USA.

RANA’s inexhaustible spirit for new endeavors that helps individuals, society, and the economy is unquestionable. These efforts by the members and leaders should be made known across the globe to garner attention to our ongoing concerns and persuade our members and non-members to work jointly in the same direction. Information about RANA’s work will be publicized across Canada, Rajasthan as well as globally to encourage others to do the same.

vWe will be reaching out to Rajasthani origin key leaders throughout the globe in different sectors & from various fields and form the RANA CANADA Advisory Committee and will help provide new perspectives on existing and future issues. Their active participation coupled with their vast experience will help us make important decisions for RANA CANADA for the betterment of the community.

RANA’s inexhaustible spirit for new endeavors that helps individuals, society, and the economy is unquestionable. These efforts by the members and leaders should be made known across the globe to garner attention to our ongoing concerns and persuade our members and non-members to work jointly in the same direction. Information about RANA’s work will be publicized across Canada, Rajasthan as well as globally to encourage others to do the same.

Rajasthan Association of North America

Generosity and charity are deeply imbibed in our beings as they are an essential part of Indian and Canadian morals. Charity events are organized now and then to support non-profit organizations by raising funds, aiding with their activities, etc. A fundraising event was organized this year to raise funds for the William Osler Foundation. We will continue our efforts in this direction in the coming years. A large number of RANA CANADA members stepped up and took charge of providing all kinds of help and support during the most uncertain times during the COVID 19 pandemic.

Molding the next generation into model citizens of the world is one of our many responsibilities as leaders and members of the community with more experience and wisdom. To guide them towards the right course of action for their educational requirements, career goals, and personal expectations, RANA plans to organize frequent/regular events centered around youth involvement and development that would help them enhance their interpersonal skills, efficiently work in a group or team setting, respect the opinions of others, and integrate into the fabric of the Canadian economy and society.

RANA’s top priority is a better quality of life for everyone. Members would always have access to amazing mentors as well as various mentorship programs. Mentoring comes in all forms and ways and is necessary for different stages of life. As we all know, helping our fellowmen is our social and fundamental duty, and we will do everything to abide by and maintain these values.

Regular emphasis is laid on the importance of a well-functioning body with a strong mind. The COVID-19 pandemic put many healthy individuals and healthcare institutions in crippling states and highlighted the importance of one’s health as well as the health of others around us. Yoga has been an integral part of the Indian culture and its virtues and wonders have become evident during this pandemic. It’s a holistic approach to all areas and sensations of this unimaginably complex human body and it has helped innumerable people for ages and continues to do so today. Let’s keep this tradition alive and practice yoga and a healthy lifestyle for the health of our organization and society at large.

RANA CANADA’s accomplishments over the past 15 years would have been a distant vision if not for the relentless commitment and perseverance of the leadership, help, and continued support of our members. All of us at RANA CANADA are grateful for the foundation laid by our leaders: RANA Canada’s Founding President, Shri Yogesh Sharma; our past Presidents, Shri Mahendra Bhandari, Smt. Swati Singhal, Shri Krishna Surana; our Patrons, Shri Rakesh Goenka, Shri Sampat Poddar, Shri Alok Goel, Shri Raj Pahuja; and many more Through their mentorship and the never faltering support of our members, RANA CANADA has now become a very strong community with widespread interests and has made its name in political, social, economic, religious, and several other fields.

I am positive that together with the unshakeable support of the new RANA CANADA Board, patrons, and all the members, we will always strive to MAKE A DIFFERENCE. I am confident that, unified, we will find ways to meet the high expectations we have set for ourselves to help not only our community but Indo-Canadians, Indians, as well as Canadians. As it is profoundly said, ‘If not us, then who?’ The smallest efforts and measures lead to unimaginable heights. Renewal is not just the act of restarting or continuing, it also includes reimagining, innovation, and tackling unresolved oversights of the past.

One of my main focuses for this coming year is to do my part with more vigor and inspire our members to do the same. To give back to the community that has blessed us so abundantly and without bias, and to take on leadership roles in different projects and activities of the community. Everyone, no matter who you are or where you’re from has the power to do something that improves and empowers others’ lives. You already make a difference every day for the people you love and the people you work for, so let’s also do the needful and embark on this journey of making changes in society.

I am deeply humbled to serve as President of RANA Canada and would like to thank the board for their undisputed trust in my abilities and unconditional support in ensuring the success of the RANA CANADA.

I am very optimistic about our plans and the progress made so far. Namely, spreading information about our activities globally; developing a community center; youth and mentorship programs; health and safety awareness; charity events; and social, professional, and economic guidance, RANA Convention in Canada in partnership with RANA USA. I promise to do my best to go beyond such that the relations between Canada and Rajasthan will only grow stronger and more resilient in the years to come. The day will come when we’ll stand together beaming with pride as we keep contributing to the country while upholding the very essence of Canadian and Rajasthani values.

Rashi Bajaj President, RANA Canada

RANA PATRONS

Anand Nahar

Haridas Kotahwala

Krishna K.Mehta

Dr. Chitranjan Ranawat

Kamal Surana

HONORARY PATRONS

Shri Ashok Gehlot Chief Minister of

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan

HH Gaj Singh Maharaja of Jodhpur

Justice Dalveer Bhandari International Court of Justice

HH Arvind Singh Maharaja of Mewar

DIWALI CHAIR COMMITTEE

Ravi Jargad Secretary Deep Mahotsav

Dr sharad kothari Joint Treasurer

Dr Vijay Arya Chairman Deep Mahotsav

Nishant Nick Garg Joint Secretary

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Rajasthan Association of North America

Shri Kanak Golia Vice President

Shri Kushal Sacheti Treasurer

Shri Prem Bhandari President

Smt. Neelam Modi Secretary

PAST PRESIDENTS

Rajasthan Association of North America

Anand Nahar

RAJIV GARG

Naveen Shah

Krishna K Mehta Dr. Ajay K Lodha

Haridas Kotahwala

Dr. Ajey Jain

Dashrath Dugar

Dr. Narendra Hadpawat

Dr. Shashi S Shah

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rajasthan Association of North America

ARVIND BHANDARI

ASHOK PANDEY

KUSHAL SACHETI CHANDRA SUKHWAL

MADHU PAREEK

KANAK GOLIA

ASHOK SANCHETI

NEELAM MODI

ATUL KOTHARI

NISHANT NICK GARG

BEENA KOTHARI

Dr. SHARAD KOTHARI

DASHRATH DUGAR

RAVI K JARGAD

AJAY K JAIN

DEEP CHOPRA Esq.

Dr. VIJAY PAL ARYA

Ashwani Upadhyay

DULICHAND BAID

YATIN DOSHI Member At Large

Rajasthan Association of North America

RAJENDRA K. BANSAL, MD

Dr. Rajendra Bansal is an internist in Jupiter, Florida for more than three decades. He is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including the Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center and Jupiter Medical Center.

He received his medical degree from Sawai Man Singh Medical College (SMSMC), Jaipur. He trained further in UK for nearly 3 years and moved to USA as an opportunity arose to further his training. On completion of his Internal Medicine Residency at Wayne State University in Detroit, he settled in Jupiter, Florida as an Internist, Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. He became the youngest Chief of Staff at Jupiter Medical Center, amongst 400 Physicians and only 6 Physicians of Indian origin.

He was instrumental in forming a Primary Care Physician Group with ancillaries. As an entrepreneur he built a Cardiac Catheter Lab with Cardiologists, Radiation Center, as well as 4 Imaging centers, along with his friends. Four of these centers had the ability to perform PET/ CT stress. All found buyers due to their excellence. At his peak, he had 45 PCPs working in his group with 13 offices. He also started a Humana MSO with 9K full risk lives in 54 Centers and 103 PCPs. This was sold last year.

He founded Palm Beach ACO (PBACO) with his friends Palm Beach ACO with 83K Medicare lives and 130K commercial lives has been named as the most profitable ACO in USA for 6 years. This year alone PBACO recorded a $61 million profit from Medicare and another $13 million from Commercial.

He helped start 8 other ACOs in 13 states. The California ACO recorded a $21 million profit, in its second year.

He has also founded a Hospitalist Group with his partners in Palm Beach. They are in 8 Hospitals in Palm Beach County. His group also staffs Radiologists, Pathologists, Anesthesiologists, and Intensivists at one hospital. In a present new project, his group owns 25 Provider PCP group in Reno, Nevada. He started a Cardiology group and an MSO, there with his investor friends. Presently building an Ambulatory Surgical Center and an Imaging Center at the same location.

His philanthropy includes a planned donation of $400K to his alma mater, SMSMC, Jaipur, for construction of a state-of-the-art Reading Hall as extension to its Library. He has been the highest donor every year to RAJMAAI (a Rajasthan Medical Colleges Alumni Association) in USA for the last 5 years. His donation to American Red Cross, Gun Control lobby as well as various charities in India are significant and amounts to approximately $200K/year. He has also helped elect Congressmen, Senators, Governors who favor India by donations and hosting fundraisers.

All this has been possible because of ardent support from his wife Urmila, son Anish and his wife Aasha as well as his daughter Nikita and her husband Harry. Anish and Nikita work with him in his Bansal Family Enterprises.

Rajasthan

Professor Sadhna Joshi, Ph.D., D.Sc.

Dr. Sadhna Joshi is a molecular virologist with over 45 years of research experience. She has a stellar academic record and an unrelenting dedication to excellence She is also recognized for her remarkable efforts in promoting Indian culture and literature, as well as for her exemplary contributions to the Indo Canadian community.

Family background: She is inspired by her paternal grandfather, Mahamahopadhyay Professor Ram Pratap Shastri, the Head of the Dep t. of Sanskrit at the University of Nagpur. Her parents, Dr. Vraj Raj Joshi and Dr. Saraswati Joshi (Chevalier, dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques, Govt. de France), were Maître de Conférences at the Institut National des Langues et Civilisations Orientales (Paris, France). Her brother, Dr. Rajiv L. Joshi, D.Sc., is a Director of Research at the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and does research in neuroscience at the Collège de France in Paris. In 1979, she married Dr. Ram N. Sukhwal, who obtained an M.Eng. from India, a Docteur Ingénieur from the University of Paris VI, and a P.Eng. from Canada. They have one son, Raman Sukhwal. Education: Dr. Joshi did her B.Sc., M.Sc. with mention très bien, and both Ph.D. and D.Sc. (Thèse d’État) on plant RNA viruses with mention très honorable avec félicitations du jury from the Université Paris VII; she obtained many fellowships/awards. She was also a post doctoral fellow at the University of Leiden. Academic career: Dr. Joshi joined Allelix Inc as a Research Scientist in 1983. Later, as Senior Research Scientist and Principal Investigator for AIDS, she coordinated the expression of soluble CD4 protein and began research on HIV gene therapy In 1988, Dr. Joshi joined the Dept. of Microbiology/Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto as an Associate Professor and Director of the HIV Research Laboratory. In 1991, she was tenured and became a full member of the School of Graduate Studies. Since 2020, Dr. Joshi has been a fellow of the Senior College, Professor Emerita at the University of Toronto, and Chief Scientific Officer of the Division of Biologics at Biolyse Pharma.

Dr. Joshi supervised numerous M.Sc., Ph.D., and M.D. students. With over $3,000,000 in funding, her research led to several patents and hundreds of publications in top peer reviewed journals and presentations at national/international conferences. Many gene therapy strategies developed in her laboratory were original and highly effective at inhibiting HIV infection; a humanized mouse model was set up to test gene therapy in vivo. Antiviral proteins were also secreted from strains of Lactobacillus that colonize the genital areas. As Lactobacillus makes yogurt, the engineered strains could easily be propagated and delivered orally, representing the most accessible and affordable preventive measure to block HIV transmission.

Community involvement: She has been the President of the World Brahman Federation Canada since 2018 and the Vice President of Vishva Hindi Sansthan Canada since 2013. She is also the Editor in Chief of the Annual Magazines published by RANA Canada since 2013 and of the souvenir book, Incredible Indo Canadians, published by the National Alliance of Indo Canadians in honor of the Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Toronto in 2015.

Awards and recognitions: In 2013, Dr. Joshi received the Professional Female of the Year Award from the Indo Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC), the Bharat Gaurav Award in India, and the New Member of the Year Award from RANA Canada. In 2014, she received the Long Service Award from the President of the University of Toronto. In 2018, Dr. Joshi received the Achievement and Recognition Award from the Indian Canadian Organization, the Lifetime/Outstanding Achievement Award from ICCC, and the Samaj Ratn Award in India. In 2022, she received the Member of the Year Award from RANA Canada. Her profile was featured in a book, ‘Jewels of India, Leading Indo Canadian Personalities,’ released this year on Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav by the High Commission of India in Ottawa, Canada.

Rajasthan

SHUBHA JAIN, MD

Dr. Shubha Jain is certified by American Board of Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiology-Subspecialty Board in Pain Management and American Academy of Pain Management. She received her fellowship training with Dr. Gabor Racz and Dr. Prithvi Raj, two of the best-known pain management specialists in the country. She has earned a tremendous amount of clinical experience in managing chronic pain when caring for patients from all over the country at the Institute of Pain Management at Texas Tech University at Lubbock. Dr. Jain has served on faculty at Texas Tech University Health Science Center and has presented several articles on pain management at national and international conferences. Additionally, she

Dr. Jain owns multiple Pain Clinics & Surgery Centers in Southern & Northern California. Throughout her career, Dr Jain has been involved in multiple leadership roles. She is currently serving as a President for the Los Angeles Tri Valley India Medical Association (TVIMA) chapter and is a Patron Member of AAPI Past Regional Director - Pacific Zone, Patron Member of AAPI and Past Chair Liaison committee AAPI. She has been an active Mentor for Women Entrepreneurs in Los Angeles

Dr Shubha Jain has been involved in charitable work all around the globe. She is always willing to step up to the plate when it comes to answering the needs of the community. As founder of a Multi denominational Temple and a community center in Los Angeles she is delivering a yeomans service to our community. Simi Valley Mandir - India Community Center (ICC) was founded in 2007 by Dr Shubha Jain and her husband, Dr Sanjiv Jain to meet the spiritual, cultural, community and religious needs of people from the Indian sub-continent.

With an expanded mission, the center provides educational, social, settlement, and employment related services including health fairs, food drives and blanket drives to help all immigrants and under-privileged in the Southern California region. It is a place for families, friends and neighbors to connect through a wealth of unique programs, services and opportunities. Inside a welcoming, inclusive environment, people of all ages and faiths explore and discover new interests, build relationships while building skills, and strengthen this vibrant community that we share. Driven by the diverse minds of our community, the programs offer thoughtful, innovative and enriching insight into the world of Indian culture and tradition.

She is into education - having instituted scholarships to support education for medical students, nursing students, college going students, street children in Delhi in their afterschool programs, occupational programs for women in Villages in India, supporting Gau Shalas in Gurgaon, and pushing for reforestation. She has helped Refurbish Panchayat Ghars in Gurgaon to house women’s occupational health centers. Helped promote cleaning of public spaces in Jaipur and Delhi while offering employment to the street children. She has provided support and confidence to victims of domestic abuse in the States by providing halfway houses and legal help in coordination with local charities. She has supported the call of the hour by proudly organizing transfer of thousands of Oxygenators to India during the current pandemic. Additionally - she has helped build several green cremation grounds in Delhi and neighborhood (an effort to reduce carbon emission). She is now busy developing a retirement community for Indian Physicians in California. Along with her husband, Dr Shubha continues to serve in any capacity she is asked to for the community. She has raised two well balanced kids. Shubha draws her inspiration from her dad - Dr (Professor) Swarup Mehta who was an educator, a poet and a freedom fighter in his own right.

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan

Rakesh Goenka

Rakesh Goenka belongs to a Goenka business family from Laxmangarh in Sikar district of Rajasthan, India. He is a business & information technology professional (retired after 45+ yrs, working with IBM in four different countries). He is a social & political activist, philanthropist, and a community leader with many varied accomplishments in both work and public arena.

Rakesh is one of the “Founding Patrons” of RANA (Rajasthan Association of North America) Canada. Since formal creation of RANA Canada in 2007, encouraged by success of Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA USA), he has mentored the board members, guided them through board elections / transitions, and contributed financially to major events (e.g., Holi, Diwali). In addition, he motivated RANA Canada to serve community to achieve a visible space in larger Canadian public arena.

During 1st ever Rajasthan Convention in USA (held in New York during year 2003), Rakesh volunteered and worked energetically (with Sh. K.K. Mehta, President, RANA USA and Animesh Goenka - Rakesh’s younger brother, RANA USA Board member). He was also instrumental in promoting presence of a large delegation from Canada.

Rakesh is currently President of Amity Foundation, the charity arm of RANA Canada. Amity is a registered Canadian charity focused on educational empowerment of International Students (specifically of Rajasthan & North Indian heritage) in Canada. Over the years, Amity has mentored over 50 students to become contributors to Canadian economy. Rakesh & Renu (his wife) have personally volunteered, in many ways, to assist over ten of these students on path to excel in Canada. During COVID pandemic, Amity partnered with other charities to: 1) make groceries available to needy students & 2) distribute Oxygen Concentrators to many locations in Rajasthan, Bihar & Delhi.

Rakesh had actively volunteered in organizing Swami Ramdev Yoga Camps in USA (i.e., New York & New Jersey) and Canada. He is also a trained Yoga teacher, who has voluntarily taught many Yoga classes. Rakesh had served on Hindu Sabha Temple board from 1986 to 1996 (in various positions, incl. Vice President, Vice Chair). During this period a new 34000 square feet green field Hindu temple was built on a 25 acres land. He led collective effort to raise appx. four million dollars for this new temple construction.

Over the years, Rakesh has also served on Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) board, in various positions from 1995 to 2002, including Presidency during 2000-2001. During this period, Rakesh was instrumental in starting Information Technology group and Montreal chapter.

Rakesh has delivered on key political election responsibilities for three different campaigns in years 2015, 2017 and 2021, with desire to enhance Indian Rajasthani presence in Canadian elected public roles.

In recognition of his “Public Service” to Canada, Rakesh was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal by Governor General of Canada.

While in India and during his early public service life, Rakesh has also served as President of Calcutta Metropolitan Jaycees (a not-for-profit) in 1981 and was on its board from 1974 to 1981.

Rakesh is continuing to volunteer his skills, time, energy, and money for educational enrichment, career counselling, mentoring, social, economic & political empowerment of Canadians, and resettlement of new Canadian immigrants.

Rakesh obtained his Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electronics and Electrical Communication) degree from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh. He earned a certificate in Management Development from IIM, Calcutta. He also completed the Engineers Entrepreneurial Programme from IIT, Delhi.

Rakesh and Renu (in partnership over the last 49+ yrs) have been instrumental in nurturing two successful children, and six grand children.

Rajasthan Association of North America

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. Even though we can no longer see you with our eyes, touch you with our hands, we feel you in our hearts forever.

Dr. Ajay K. Lodha

A Legend

May 4, 1963 - november 21, 2020

President, RANA- 2006

dr. Ajay Lodha was a noble physician and stood as a role model for his leadership, grit, and energy. He was a loving husband, a caring father, a supportive brother, and a very dear son. From his early roots in India, he held strong to his cultural values and dedicated time to his family as well as his personal, social, and professional endeavors. Ajay’s energetic personality and pursuit for excellence guided his professional success, leadership acumen, and philanthropic work around the world.

dr. Lodha graduated from R.n.T. Medical College, Udaipur and moved to new York where he owned nursing homes and developed his private practice: Queens Medical Services PLLC along with his wife dr. Smita Lodha. As he grew professionally, he became an active and well-regarded member of the Indian diaspora in the United States.

Ajay served as the president of various renowned organizations.

• American Association of Physicians of Indian (AAPI) (convention in Atlantic City, well-attended by 2,000 people)

• AAPI- Queens-Long Island Chapter

• Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) (convention was graced by then Chief Minister Smt. Vasundhara Raje)

• Rajasthan Medical Alumni Association (RAJMAAI)

He received many accolades for his contributions as he took these associations to new heights. In 2016, he earned the ellis Island Medal of Honor for his transformative contributions to the greater Indian American community. While Ajay achieved a decorated list of accomplishments, he was famous for providing relentless mentorship to his friends and family and guided many aspiring individuals to kickstart their healthcare careers. He used his entrepreneurial skills to assist many individuals to reach their own set of goals. Ajay was also a connoisseur of food and was well-known for his great hospitality, whether at home or at any organizational event which he was part of. He was a determined person and believed that anything was possible: “no” was never an answer as he was always ready to help others.

However, in March 2020, our hero contracted the coronavirus while treating the most vulnerable patients in the nursing homes. He was admitted to north Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, then transferred to Mt. Sinai Hospital in new York City where he stayed for two months, and finally transferred to Cleveland Clinic in Ohio for a double-lung transplant. He, along with his family, were determined that they were not going to let the virus win so easily. However, after a challenging eight-month battle with COVI d-19 complications, dr. Ajay Lodha peacefully passed away on the morning of november 21, 2020, surrounded by his loving family. Although our COVI d Warrior is in god’s abode, his journey on earth is laden with remarkable achievements and inspirational stories for future generations.

In his memory, a scholarship fund is established by his family with the help of AAPI-QLI to provide annual scholarships to deserving medical professionals on an ongoing basis who will use their knowledge, determination, and values to make this world a better place.

Thank you RA n A for recognizing Ajay’s work and bestowing him with a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to the community.

In loving memory of the great men who selflessly served our community. We all miss your presence You will always be in our hearts.

Dr. Ajay Ji Lodha

Dharam Chand Ji Hirawat

in this world. A tribute to the Legend....the pioneer of an era...

Sampat & Taruna Poddar Toronto

Rajasthan Association of North America

Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti

(Registered Under the Societies Registration Act. No 261/1974-75)

Sawai Man Singh Hospital, Jaipur - 302 004 (INDIA)

Compassion is the part of the DNA of Rajasthan. Rajasthanies contribute enormously for innumerable social projects covering health, education, nutrition, environment and host of other areas. Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) is also the expression of the same humanitarian spirit. Some of the main features of BMVSS are as under :-

1. Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) set up in 1975, as a registered NGO under the Indian Law. BMVSS is the world’s largest organization for the rehabilitation of the disabled.

2. BMVSS is a non-political, non-religious & nonsectarian organization

3. The objective of BMVSS is to provide mobility and dignity to the handicapped

4. BMVSS Provides artificial limbs, calipers, wheelchairs, hand paddled tricycles, crutches and other aids and appliances to over 90,000 persons with disability in a year. This number includes about 30,000 artificial limbs provided by BMVSS. Comparative to this, the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) under its Special Fund for Disabled (SFD) provided 4839 artificial limbs in the year 2019 (reference the Annual Report of ICRC for the year 2019).

5. BMVSS has already rehabilitated about 2 million Persons with Disability (PwDs)

6. The cost of an artificial limb of Jaipur Foot type supplied by BMVSS is presently just Rs. 5500/-. (say about US$70), where as a similar kind of a limb in the western world is US$ 12,000.

7. BMVSS provides all its services totally FREE OF COST to the Persons with Disabilities with the full support of donors from India and abroad.

8. BMVSS has been given Special Consultative Status with the Economic & Social Council of the United Nations Organization – New York.

9. While the concentration of BMVSS is on the disabled in India, in the last several years, it has held 95 on-thespot-artificial limb fitment camps in 40 countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Fiji, Honduras, Iraq, Syria, Kenya, Lebanon, Malawi, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania, Vietnam, Zimbabwe, Equatorial Guinea etc). Right now, a camp is underway in Fiji. The camp in Syria, one of the most dangerous countries of the world got concluded only a few days back. Such camps earn enormous goodwill for India.

10. On the technology side, the artificial limbs that BMVSS provides are known as the Jaipur Foot which is famous all over the world. Jaipur Foot is closest to the human foot and artificial limb in terms of flexions, functions and cosmetics. With it a below knee amputee can walk, walk on uneven ground, run, climb a tree or a mountain, sit cross legged, crouch, ride a cycle, drive a car and swim. The international Time Magazine wrote several pages on Jaipur Foot a few years ago and stated that “……Jaipur Foot, that has revolutionized life for millions of landmine amputees.”

11. BMVSS is getting support from world famous scientific institutions, Stanford University-USA etc for upgrading our technology. It has a formal MOU with the Stanford University. Under this they have developed a special four-bar linkage knee joint for above knee amputees. The world famous TIME Magazine (issue of 23rd Nov 2009) hailed this Stanford-Jaipur Knee as one of the 50-Best Inventions in the world of the year 2009. This is being recognized as one of the best mechanical knee joints in the world.

12. MIT USA, another famous technology university, too is helping BMVSS on three projects for development of new devices for Persons with Disabilities.

13. It would thus be clear that BMVSS combines service with science.

14. BMVSS does create a Special Alternative Affordable Healthcare Model for the poor. This has attracted the attention of many technical and academic institutions of world fame. Harvard Business School, USA has written a case study on BMVSS and Jaipur Foot. The other Business Schools which have also written case studies on BMVSS / and Jaipur Foot are IIM Ahmadabad, IIM Bangalore, London Business School etc. Several magazines in India and abroad have written extensively on BMVSS and Jaipur Foot.

15. United Nations Organization (UNO) and Permanent Mission of India to the UN organized a Special Conference on 15th May 2018, at its headquarters in New York to commemorate ‘50 years of Jaipur Foot and a 4-Day Exhibition on Jaipur Foot’.

16. To commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, External Affairs Minister of India launched ‘India for Humanity’ under which MEA signed an MoU with BMVSS, under which BMVSS held 21 on-thespot artificial limb fitment camps in 18 countries (like Syria, Iraq, Vietnam, Senegal, Tanzania, Myanmar, Bangladesh etc) were held. This generated enormous goodwill for India. This MoU has been renewed by MEA for the next three years.

17. The world renowned Management Guru, Prof. C. K. Prahlad of Michigan University, USA in his Book, a classic --- “Fortune at The Bottom of Pyramid”, stated that the Administrative and Overhead Cost of BMVSS for the Financial Year 2002 was just 4% of its total budget. This maybe among the lowest for NGOs in the world. Now this cost has further come down to less than 3%.

18. Jaipur Foot USA headed by Mr. Prem Bhandari and with office bearers namely Manish Dhaddha, K. K. Mehta, Kanak Golia ……………… is helping BMVSS by raising funds. Incidentally, the administrative and overhead cost of Jaipur Foot USA is 0%, a remarkable achievement.

( D. R. Mehta)

Founder & Chief Patron

BMVSS, Jaipur INDIA

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan Association

PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE

Though all of us believe that it is true, we don’t do it. Why? As we need to adhere to a healthy life style of moderation and no excesses. But we are all so made to seek more and more happiness in life and we know that it is through sense enjoyment that we experience happiness. So we use different senses, provide its desired objects of enjoyment so that we can use an other sense when one gets tired of getting happiness due to the effect of saturation. To acquire objects of enjoyment, we want more and more Artha or money. To get more money speediest way, we are often driven to unjust ways. Corruption is rampant as we see in such big scams which are unbelievable. A life style of speed and greed has started engulfing us. This is the root cause for all the modern life style disorders which are essentially non communicable diseases- NCDs. Unless we handle this root cause, we will not be able to prevent diseases especially of the NCDs.

How do we do it?

We need to give a scientific explanation for changing our life style. Upanishads tell us to analyze what is happiness and get at the truth rather than assume that happiness in objects of enjoyments and run after them changing our natural way of life working in tune with na ture. Simple examples show that the first object of enjoyment gives maximum happiness and the second and third consumption of the same will reduce the happiness; revealing the law of diminishing returns. The objects of enjoyment vary from person to person and community to community. Often we experience happiness when we are praised for our good work by many even without sense objects. This clearly shows our ignorance in accepting that happiness is in objects of enjoyment and chases them. If convinced, a real change emerges in us; we then analyze what is happiness - a state of mind with concentration, states of thrill and excitement? They all bring fatigue when continued for a long time and hence follow the law of diminishing returns. So what is that state which can be reckoned as happiness? Upanishads asked us to go deeper and unravel the mystery by carefully examining the state induced during the con tact of senses with their respective sense objects - called ‘Visaya-visayi sambhoga’. We cannot catch this secret if the mind is fast; only when it gets slow the mystery gets resolved to show that it is a state of silence induced by the senses when they come in touch with their objects for a very short duration of time - probably a few milli seconds and so we miss it. It is this state of silence which is the abode of all happiness.

So Yoga provides the necessary tools to move towards this state of silence which Patanjali called it ‘Citta vrtti nirodhah’. By any of the 4 main paths - said Swami Vivekananda. Working through cognitional transformations to go to the very base of intellect in Jnana yoga, shaping and moulding the mind by control of mind to go to subtle layers reaching the source of all thoughts in Raja Yoga, harnessing the emotions from gross violent emotions to softer and cultured emotions leading us to the very source of emotions in Bhakti Yoga, and converting every action into a Yoga by attuning the inner layers of our mind with Anandamaya Kosha featured by silence, peace, tranquility and bliss. That is the real way of life which can not only prevent diseases, but also promote positive health and lead us to perfect health. The Integrated approach of Yoga therapy utilizing all the four streams of Yoga has been in vogue for almost four decades now and is increasingly adopted to deal with these NCDs in particular and all diseases in general. We have adopted this IAYT to meet the biggest challenge of our nation - Diabetes. By ‘Stop Diabetes Movement’ - SDM. Working at all layers of our human system - Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya and Anandamaya Koshas.

Dr H R Nagendra, Chancellor, S-VYASA University, Bengaluru, India

Former scientist at NASA-USA, University of British Colombia-Canada, Imperial College-London-UK and Yoga advisor to Honorable Prime Minister of India Sri Narendra Modiji

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan Association of North America

Dr Deepak & Gita Setia Dr. Peter Bhandari Dr Rekha Bhandari Dr. Gayatri Bhandari

Prem Bhandari

Chairman - Jaipur Foot USA, President - Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA) and New York-based Social Activist

With the aim of expanding its wings and reaching out to people far and wide, Eternal Hospital Jaipur, under the aegis of Eternal care Foundation, laid the foundation of a 150-bed hospital in Sanganer, a Suburb of Jaipur.

The idea behind the hospital is to cater to the medical needs of patients irrespective of where they come from.

A Ray of Hope and Eternal care

Lack of affordable healthcare is the reason why many people have to lose their fight with diseases that could have been managed easily and it is due to this very fact that Eternal Hospital wanted to reach out to as many people as possible, ensuring, patients didn't have to think twice before going for treatment. The team strives to offer the finest care to patients at the most affordable prices because they believe that every person has the right to good health and healthcare facilities. Eternal Hospital has always been committed to offering quality and affordable care to the people of Rajasthan, as well as other parts of the country and now it has come closer to you with the same commitment.

State-of-the-art care under one roof

At Eternal Hospital, Sanganer, they bring to your care, the finest medical interventions backed by advanced innovations. The institution offers a 28-bed ICU with fully functional operating rooms, equipped with best-in-class modalities.

The hospital offers unparalleled expertise in the areas of Emergency Medicine, Dialysis Services, and a host of super speciality services including Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT), Endocrinology & Breast Surgery, Gastroenterology, General Medicine, General & Laparoscopic Surgery, GI Surgery, Nephrology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Oncology, Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement, Paediatrics & Neonatology, Plastic Surgery, Respiratory Medicine, Rheumatology, Urology.

Eternal Hospital has time and again proved its inclinations towards improving the standards of healthcare in India. I would also like to congratulate Mrs. Manju Sharma & Dr. Samin K Sharma for their phenomenal contribution in this direction and wish all the best to the whole team for this new chapter, which is surely going to be a turning point for all of us.

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan Association of North America

Eternal Hospital

A pioneer in offering modern multispecialty healthcare service

Eternal Hospital, established in the year 2013, in Jaipur (Rajasthan), India, is a globally renowned multispecialty healthcare facility. The foundation of the hospital was laid by Mrs. Manju Sharma & Dr. Samin K Sharma (An internationally renowned interventional cardiologist based at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York).

Eternal Hospital (A unit of Eternal Heart Care Centre and Research Institute) has always set benchmarks in patient care, clinical research protocols and healthcare delivery systems. Eternal Hospital has emerged as the most preferred multi-speciality hospital in Rajasthan with a 250-bed capacity. The JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation is a testimony to Eternal Hospitals’ constant endeavour to provide world-class patient care while maintaining the highest ethical standards in healthcare delivery in Rajasthan and making sure the doctors and staff treat every patient and their families with dignity, respect & compassion. Eternal Hospital has a knowledge-sharing arrangement with Mount Sinai Hospital New York USA, which has been internationally recognized for its top-performing physicians and revolutionary research centres. This tie-up helps to understand the growing demands through which we are constantly planning, and implementing measures that will take care of the health of tomorrow's India. We are focusing our efforts and investing our resources towards educating people on the importance of awareness, prevention and early detection. We believe that this is the best and the only enduring way to build a healthy India of tomorrow. Eternal Hospital is India’s preferred Centre for Excellence from the American College of Cardiology. Clinical excellence is rooted in our team of doctors or medical experts who are well-versed with the latest advancements in their respective fields. This is further complemented by our teams of highly trained nurses and paramedical staff for which Eternal Hospital has been awarded the Nursing Excellence Award. Hospital is driven by the single thrust to provide the best standards in patient care through human resources, infrastructure and technology. Offering tertiary care, the hospital is focused more on a few pivotal Centres of excellence namely; Cardiac Sciences, Neurosciences, Renal Sciences, Orthopedics and Joint Replacement, Critical Care, Internal Medicine, Diabetes and Endocrinology and many other specialities.

Working on the Indian principle of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ meaning ‘The guest is equivalent to God.’ Eternal Hospital, the only hospital in Rajasthan with JCI accreditation, is fully equipped to cater to the needs of international patients, thus focusing on medical tourism in Rajasthan, which is still in the nascent stage owing to the fact that the actions taken to exploit it are still primitive. To fulfil the expectations of the patients, when it comes to the latest advanced treatments that can give them value for money and recognise the demand, Eternal Hospital Jaipur is taking steps to attract tourists as India is emerging as the most popular medical tourism destination. It is also among the few nations that offer first-world healthcare facilities at third-world prices. Eternal Hospital has achieved many unique milestones in the treatment of patients. The hospital has been acclaimed as “A preferred destination for healthcare” and with its various social awareness programs, it is being praised by numerous organizations and media houses.

Rajasthan Association of North America

Rajasthan Association of North America

Contributing to Health in Rural Rajasthan, India A Personal Reflection

Sachin H. Jain, MD, MBA

Bapu ji chose to send my father and his siblings to schools primarily reserved for harijans or untouchables. In India’s Jain community, harijans worked primarily as domestic servants. My grandfather wanted to make clear to his children his belief in Gandhian social equality and serve as an example to others in the community. Perhaps even more strikingly, he encouraged his three daughters to vigorously pursue education. In an era when women were educated solely for the purpose of occupying them until marriage, my three aunts became a doctor, research scientist, and attorney, respectively.

Bapu ji’s enduring mark on our family was a deep-seated commitment to service to others. At age 12, he migrated from Phalodi, a forgotten farming village deep in Rajasthan’s deserts to Jodhpur, a relative metropolis. The striking contrasts between the two seeded in him outrage at the social, political, economic, and geographic inequality that marked colonial India. This outrage, I am told frequently permeated dinner table conversation and manifested most strongly in a feeling of indebtedness to Phalodi—a debt that he hoped his children might recognize and repay. Though our family had been barely middle class, he marked it with the burden of privilege.

In the summer following my first year of medical school, I spent my days eating and sleeping in Bapu ji’s legacy: a 100 bed hospital admidst the Khichaan district of Phalodi (see Figure 1). For the past three decades, it has been a family preoccupation of sorts, involving every member of my nuclear and extended family in some way. My two aunts, Shanti Auntie, before she succumbed to ovarian cancer, and Kanti Auntie both committed the bulk of their professional lives to planning, building, and, now operating a hospital in our ancestral village. The name they chose for their efforts—”Human Benefit Services” or HBS—reflects the simple aim of their work.

HBS was founded in 1978 (see box 1) and today collectively includes the hospital whose construction took 10 years to complete; a school for children in Grades K-12; and a women’s empowerment program to provide vocational skills to local women (see figure 2). Unmarried and wholly devoted to an expansive notion of social service, Shanti Auntie and Kanti Auntie wanted to be where their efforts were most needed and led others by demonstrating courage and persistence in the face of obstacles. Their embodiment of Bapu ji’s teaching has since translated into meaningful action.

Arriving in Phalodi in 2003 seemed to me like the fulfillment of a lifetime dream, a phase of transition of a family commitment from generation to the next. Until that summer, my contributions to HBS had been primarily around writing brochures and raising funds. Still, I had always felt that I would assume greater responsibility at a time when I had more to offer. By that summer, I felt that I was no longer a child precociously soliciting

Rajasthan Association of North America

family friends and acquaintances with my pitch to “support the care of only one patient,” but was a medical student on the threshold of being able to offer meaningful service in a hospital with a short, but proud history.

To the surprise of my extended family, I immersed myself within life in Phalodi and elected to spend weeks sleeping in a hospital bed there in order to fully absorb the vibe of the workers, doctors, and patients who kept it running 24 hours a day. Starting at 7:30 AM each morning, I rounded with physicians and closely observed the care of patients. They came in droves with illnesses as severe and different as tuberculosis and clinical depression. I was always struck by the vivid image of the villagers—some of whom had traveled over 40 miles for care— collected anxiously in the waiting area in traditional Rajasthani garb. It occurred to me that only a few critical decisions—first by my grandfather and, then, by my father, separated me from them.

With a background of research and coursework in health care delivery, I saw myself as a troubleshooter. My aunt was already using such innovations as community health workers—but I was trying to understand ways in which we might better serve our patients. Local residents were thrilled to have care of any kind, but it was apparent that a few simple interventions might help. In a short time, I observed that our patients—most of whom were illiterate—usually left highly confused about their medication instructions. Working with Kanti Auntie and the hospital’s pharmacy technicians, I implemented a simple system of dispensing medication based on color coding and numerical labeling that would help patients know when and how to take their prescriptions.

Interacting with patients, hospital workers, physician staff, and Kanti Auntie, I felt satisfaction that I was finding my place in our family’s undertaking. There was a simplicity to the life and the work. I felt part of a rich tradition. At the same time, I somehow felt that I did not fit in. While I quickly grew comfortable and felt useful in Phalodi, something entirely unexpected happened. I started to think about my life in the US—and just knew that my true place was there.

As much as the patients in Phalodi represented my ancestral heritage, and the hospital, my family’s deep commitment to the region, I felt more detached than I was comfortable with. While I cared about the patients in Phalodi, I didn’t really understand their lives or the colloquial marwari they were speaking. I started to feel that my real ties lay elsewhere.

My first impulse was to reject the part of me that felt separate from the village and the institution. After all, weren’t all patients the same in the eyes of a physician? Couldn’t I eventually feel comfortable with the people of Phalodi? Wouldn’t my training be relatively more useful to patients in Phalodi than in Boston? I reconciled that my more fundamental attachment to life in the US wasn’t something to be ashamed of, but to channel as fuel for my work. It simply meant that my contributions to our work in India would be different—grounded in a life based in the US, not India.

Returning to Boston that fall, I endeavored to find programs and institutions in the US through which we might be able to deliver better services to patients in Rajasthan. Over the next several years, I would use my network of relationships to form partnerships with various organizations: with DaVita Bridge of Life to create two dialysis centers in rural Rajasthan (see figure 3); with Boston-based Medical Missions for Children to annually bring cleft lip and palate surgery to the region; and with the University of Miami’s Global Health Residency program to shepherd rotating residents from Miami to Phalodi. I also successfully rallied my classmates at Harvard Business School to fundraise for our work.]

The cleft lip and palate missions continue and the dialysis centers have now operated for 15 years. In building these relationships and raising these funds, I resolved a tension that many of us who wish to contribute to global health face. My desire for a career and life based in the US would not be incompatible with contributions to health care in India—but instead be complementary to it.

My Bapu ji led his life as a catalyst for others to recognize problems in the world around him— and to work unrelentingly to address them. Though I never met him, my father tells me that he emphasized simple things: personal responsibility, hard work, and a commitment to do right. I hope that I do right by his ideal.

Sachin H. Jain, MD, MBA is CEO of SCAN Group and Health Plan and was formerly CEO of CareMore Health. He received his undergraduate, medical, and business degrees from Harvard University and held senior roles in the Obama Administration. He is the son of Dr. Subhash and Sarla Jain of Alpine, NJ.

Box 1:

Human Benefit Services at a glance

1. Founded in 1978 by Dr. Shanti Jain

2. Operates with a dual mission of providing health care and education to residents of rural Rajasthan, India

3. Hospital and mobile medical clinic model provides medical care to a region with population 300,000; special focus on infant and maternal health

4. Hospital furnished with US medical supplies and equipment after US-based volunteers raised funds to purchase and ship equipment from a bankrupt Kansas hospital

5. Partnerships with international organizations allow HBS to provide specialty services including cataract surgery, cleft lip and palate surgery, and kidney dialysis

6. School provides English-medium education to children in grades K-12

7. Women’s empowerment program teaches women basic job skills to allow them to become economically self-sufficient

Rajasthan Association of North America

“ Knowledge ” The Ultimate Purifier

By Vijay Arya MD

The lighting of the lamp (Deep) is an integral part of Deepawali celebration. Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists all around the world. This festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and immortality over death. It is an opportunity to self-reflect, and identify ignorance (or darkness) within ourselves and cure it by gaining “knowledge.”

Step 1 is to identify our own vices. Some of the most common ones are: ego, lust, anger, delusion, greed, pride, envy, vanity, Injustice and insensitivity. Step 2 is to follow a discipline to cure or prevent these vices by practicing several Duties Towards Others as well as Duties Towards Ouselves.

Duties Towards Others- Total 5

1. Non -Violence ( Ahimsa)- This concept is very easy to define but much harder to practice. Simply put, it means not to hurt or disturb others in any way. But every action starts as a thought, and so the real challenge here lies in avoiding negative thoughts both against ourselves and against others. Align your thoughts with your words and your deeds. Start with trying to keep 10%, then 20%, then 30% of your thoughts positive in one day, and aim to eventually reach 100%.

2. Truthfullness- Be ready to accept the truth in any situation, regardless of how it may make you feel, and reject the untruth. Intelligence, intellect and innovations are not needed to speak the truth. Again very easy to say, but practice will achieve the aim.

3. Non-stealing- One should not take anything without the owner’s permission. In fact, don’t entertain the thoughts of taking anything without the owner’s permission. This includes physical property and intellectual property, material and immaterial.

4. Celebacy- The original principle is “Brahmacharya“ which means contemplation on The Supreme. Physical , mental acts and thoughts pertaining to sexual relationships are strictly prohibited before marriage. After marriage relationship is restricted only for good progeny with the spouse with mutual willingness only. This discipline also includes gaining knowledge. Only practioners of Brahmacharya are eligible for higher limbs of Yoga.

5. Aparigraha- This is a deliberate decision to limit the desire for material and non-material things in life. Start by giving up things you have not used in the last few years. Each time you think of buying something new, ask yourself if you really need it. Is this a NEED or is it a WANT? This concept also applies to thoughts - do not clutter your mind with many thoughts all at once. Live in the moment. It’s very peaceful to focus on one task, finish it, and then entertain the next. If we are able to master this practice, it can be very very useful, especially post COVID-19 when many of us are experiencing anxiety.

Duties Towards Self- Total 5

1. Cleanliness - Internal cleaning needs to be practiced daily, just like daily dusting is needed for external objects. But how do we do this? We use regular self reflection, and positive reinformcenet. Identify one vice at a time and battle it with a positive action. For example, if your vice is angery, repeat to yourself “Someone has made me angry, but nobody has the power to make me angry, I have the power to change my reaction.” External cleaning deals with the physical body - waking up before sunrise, exercising and bathing, followed by consumption of a balanced, vegetarian diet. Food should always be consumed in moderation. Currently, obesity is one of the most serious problems in all ages mainly because of poor dietary habits.

2. Discussions- Regular reading of choice of your scriptures, listening to podcasts and taking guidance from more experienced teachers are all very helpful.

3. Contenment- Try to clarify any confusions and misunderstandings as soon as possible. The longer we wait, the harder it becomes to have difficult conversations. This simple practice will keep you away from negative thoughts. Happiness and worrying don’t go together. Secondly, do not entertain expectations of those around you. We don’t control others’ actions, so their behavior should not disrupt our inner peace.

4. Austerity- Practice emotional balance in times of extreme happiness and sadness. We shouldn’t be impulsive or reactionary. We should take the time to keep calm and develop a thoughtful response.

5. Believe in a Supreme Being- Complete dedication and devotion to the Supreme Being (which resides within yourself!)

Diwali is also a time when we should be helping others. One should never be satisfied with their own progress, but should continuously make efforts to uplift others.

To prevent/cure darkness/ignorance in society we have to fight illiteracy all around the world. Charity starts from your own home - collectively we as Rajasthani’s should take a pledge to achieve absolute literacy for Rajasthani rural mothers, sisters and daughters in the next 10 years.

Actions and efforts taken by Government and Non-government Organizations are commendable, but the problem is huge and definitely needs more attention and contributions from more well wishers like you. Apart from poverty and absence of role models in the family, undiagnosed learning disabilities, hearing and vision loss are the most common barriers to achieving education. Our medical fraternity should come forward to fight these issues.

I hope that I have given you some food for thought, and some tools to implement in your daily life. Deepawali is meant to bring us together in celebration of love, peace, and harmony. I thank each and everyone for making RANA’S Deep Mahotsav a grand success.

The Challenges of Aging in Place

Dr.Rekha Bhandari, CMO MedElite Group

According to a 2021 AARP survey, three out of every four Americans over the age of 50 would prefer to age in place – i.e., remain in their homes – as long as possible, a percentage that has remained consistent for a decade.

That should come as no surprise, given the costs associated with assisted-living, Nursing Homes and Short term Rehab facilities. However, beyond the financial optics, Aging in place is rooted in maintaining a sense of identity, optimal independence, dignity and the autonomy to have meaningful roles and relationships within one’s community.

For that reason,and the cultural fabric of our heritage, aging in place should be a viable option for all Indians.

That is just one of many challenges facing those who wish to live out their years at home. It’s a matter not only of making sure they have adequate support but also companionship, given the deleterious effects of social isolation. It is also a matter of making sure the necessary safety measures are in place. Certainly technology plays a role in all these matters, but it is only part of the equation, as we shall see.

It is important to understand the sheer scope of the challenge. Some 10,000 Baby Boomers turn 65 every day, and by 2030 all of them – some 60 million Americans – will exceed that age. By 2050, 90 million will be over 65. Around 1.8 Million Asians ( foriegn born).are currently 65 years and above. Not to be forgotten, either, is the fact that eight in 10 of those in that age range will suffer from at least one chronic condition, and seven in 10 will have two or more.

If 75 percent of older adults do indeed wish to age in place, that means 45 million seniors will be leaning in that direction by the end of the current decade. By 2050, that number will swell to 67.5 million. Given that trend – it has been called a “Silver Tsunami” – experts say it is crucial that seniors plan ahead. That means arranging day-to-day support as it pertains to meals, personal care, household chores and money management. And certainly it means taking the necessary steps on the healthcare front.

Programs such as Chronic care management and Remote patient monitoring are some methods of keeping tabs on seniors who choose to age in place. Seniors and their families can discuss with their health care provider for services that enable technology platforms to receive high-quality acute and restorative care in their homes.”

“Certainly telehealth also proved its worth during the pandemic, and will be a factor in home healthcare as well. Policy Makers have introduced plans to improve telehealth services in underserved communities, and further federal measures are in the works. Technology can also be expected to play a role in mitigating social isolation, which has been shown to be as hazardous to one’s health as smoking, in that it causes or exacerbates a wide variety of affiliations, including Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease and even cancer. We saw during the pandemic the value of communications platforms such as Zoom, and they will likely continue to be prominent. Certainly seniors are receptive to such gadgetry; a recent survey showed that at least eight in 10 Americans, no matter the age group, rely on technology to stay connected with friends and family members. At the same time, there is no substitute for human interaction, and indeed 30 percent of adults say they have been tasked with caring for a parent over the age of 65, and in-home care providers and home health aides can fill that void, in addition to filling a variety of other crucial roles.

Price transparency in health plans and prescribed medications need further strong advocacy from community leaders that enables seniors to more affordable healthcare. Finally, there is the matter of safety for those who choose to age in place. Falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors in the U.S., as they result in 32,000 fatalities each year. Experts recommend that seniors have their homes retrofitted with such items as stability bars, shower seats and non-slip floor mats.

The conclusion that can be drawn is that while certain physical conditions will necessitate that seniors require hospitalization or institutionalization, that need not be the rule.Positive impact of ancient practices YMLI ( Yoga and Meditation based Lifestyle based Intervention) on biomarkers of cellular aging and in promoting cellular longevity through changes in both cardinal and metabotrophic biomarkers is well documented by researchers. If healthy, they can get their wish and stay at home. Yes, it will require some adjustments. It will require changes to the home itself, and likely require at least some intervention by others.

But it can be done. It is as one 50-something woman once told her son: Your 70s, far from being a time to gear back, are a time to reinvent oneself. That is now a greater possibility than ever before.”

Rajasthan Association of North America

PROUD OF BEING RAJASTHANI

Rajasthan is emerging one of the most important state in modern India. It has rich heritage blended with modern conviction. The young greaten of the state is making inroads in all spheres of life throughout the world. Gone are days when people use to laid back life. Today the young generation is not only accepting the challenges of modern life but also creating new opportunities for themselves. They are not afraid of venturing into the unknown and exploring untrammeled path. Today the young Rajasthani rate carving places for the themselves in the modern world and laying down sound foundation for the future. Historically the state had been rich in folk are and culture and there is no parallel as far as the bravery and velour are concerned. The colorful way of Rajasthani is known to the whole world. Right from Meera Bhai to the modern date artist, songs music, rhythm melodious tunes rings in the ears of the world the colorful way of the celebrating life right from birth to death is historical and has a strong bondage with history. Rajasthan has produced such great warriors like Maharana Partap and so many others. But erstwhile society of Rajasthan has now transformed itself into a dynamic vibrant society, which has no boundaries.

Earlier there were no opportunities available to the young dynamic entrepreneurs of the state and they migrate to Calcutta, Bombay and Madras and others citied in search of opportunities for their skill and abilities. Some of the Legendary names are, Shri Ghanshyam das ji Birla. Jamna lal ji Bajaj to the name a few. Most of the major business houses of the country have come from Rajasthan.

The economic activities in the state are huge backed by tremendous natural resources and deposits. Famous Makrana marbles, Granite of Jalore, lignite, Petrol Gas, Gypsum, Bentonite, Crystal, Zink, Copper, Lime stone are some example of the same. Major emphasis has been laid down for development of the infrastructure and most of the cities are linked by road today. Modern four lane eight lane highways are being constructed and telecommunication is at its best in the state. The handicraft industry is expanding@60% every year. The Garments exports is also expanding. The Precious stone industry in Jaipur is well known world over. More and more young entrepreneurs are coming forward and plug into private enterprises.

One can safely, say that Rajasthan is land of opportunities today for kind of activities be it the tourism industry or service sector.

Politically state is stable and by and large the people of Rajasthan are peace loving and there is congenial atmosphere wherein one can truly release his or her potential. There are hardly any strikes or riots in the state. Rajasthan is one of the most effectively governed state and state policy is such that the new enterprises can really flourish.

The religious tradition is pretty long, today the religious faith is enhancing the growth of the individuals in the s rather than curbing it. Spiritual inner strength provides tremendous support for progress to individuals.

Socially people of the state are affectionate and treat the guest as God.

I am safely conclude by saying, “ I am proud of being a Rajasthani”

Arvind Bhandari Founder RANA

Rajasthan se. Born and raised in New York. Actor, Producer and Writer. Bollywood bhi, Hollywood bhi.

Meet … Prashantt Guptha! Our host for this year’s illustrious RANA ANNUAL FUNCTION

Son of Shri Kedar Gupta and Shrimati Savitri Gupta, Prashantt is amongst the rare NRIs who have made a mark in Bollywood and showbiz, dedicating his life to the performing arts. The journey began on the stages of the annual Diwali functions back in the 1980’s, just a few years after his parents migrated to New York from Jaipur. His father’s renowned company GRK GEMS has now been in operations for nearly 45 years, and whilst the original family journey began in Queens (residential) and Manhattan (office), the last 20 years the family and business has been operating from Manhasset, Long Island.

It was during his senior year of high school that Prashantt realized that there is nothing more he wants to do with his life than become a movie star. He enrolled in acting workshops wherever he could alongside studying at Baruch College. After an initial stint in commercials, theatre and modeling in NY, he moved to Mumbai in 2007 in pursuit of his ‘Bollywood Dreams.’

In his 15 years of living in Mumbai, he has starred in several features, webseries, short films and commercials. Apart from which he’s been featured and interviewed in most major national publications and film magazines.

As for the films he has worked on, he got his first break in the film, EK VIVAH AISA BHI, made by the legendary production house Rajshri Productions. A few years later, he landed a role in a film produced by the Indian division of 20th Century Fox, called NEERJA, and thereafter he played key roles in projects like THE TASHKENT FILES, a web series produced by Disney called SPECIAL OPS, and his biggest hit, the recent web-series called AASHRAM (third season), a show which has been seen by over 1 billion people. But the film closest to his heart is his first, and thus far only international film, called A NEW CHRISTMAS. This is an English feature film born out of his ambition to plant a foot in the West and a passion to tell an ethnic Christmas story. The film received official acceptance to over 15 film festivals and is now popularly viewed on Amazon Prime. Under his Atlanta based company Mulberry Films, they are looking forward to completing the development of a few prestigious films.

He now travels between Mumbai and US for his work, and has recently re-settled in Manhasset with his wife and two sons.

Rajasthan Association of North America

Heartiest congratulations to Honorees!

Rajasthan

Dr. Sudha Jain, Rakesh Goenka, Dr. Sadhna Joshi, Dr. Raj Bansal

We are proud of Late Dr. Ajay Lodha, Shri Dharam Chand Hirawat & Rajeev Garg for

Padama Bhushan

Rajasthan Association of North America

Welcome to

HON’BLE Shri D. R. Mehta Sahib Cheif Patron and Founder BMVSS JAIPUR FOOT to RANA NAKODA CAMP Sponsored by Kanak & Prabha Golia PIYUSH & ROMA GOLIA DRS NILESH & PREETI MEHTA

Guru Srimati Bina Menon is an exponent of Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudii, Mohiniyat tam, and Kathakali who has been teaching and choreographing Indian classical dance for the last 47 years, having personally trained over 2,000 students without any assistant or help. Bina Menon has had the opportunity to perform and travel worldwide with Bollywood’s dream girl, Hema Malini. Since she established her Kalashri School of Arts in 1992, her students have had glamorous performances with renowned artists like Udit Narayan, Alka Yagnik, Sukhwinder Singh, and A.R. Rahman, in addition to shows for former US President Bill Clinton, the NJ Governor’s inauguration, the NY Governor’s fundraiser, the 2009 Oscars, NBA and NHL halftime shows, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to NYC. Most recently, Guru Bina Menon has choreographed the historic arangetram at Carnegie Hall of disciples Krupa Patel and Nidhi Ladda.

Krupa

Krupa Patel’s dance journey began in 2007 upon discovering that Guru Bina Menon’s Kalashri School of Arts was a mere 3 minutes away from her home. Krupa has taken the lessons she has learned in the studio and applied them to all aspects of her life, striving for creativity and excellence in all of her passions. Along with Nidhi, she too made history by performing the rst ever arangetram at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Coming from Parsippany, New Jersey,

Rajasthan Association of North America

Nidhi

Beginning her dance career at the young age of four, Nidhi’s interest in Bharatnatyam led her to Guru Bina Menon. Dancing has not only connect ed Nidhi to her Indian culture, but has allowed her to nd discipline, devo tion, and spirituality in all her endeav ors. Hailing from Livingston, New Jersey, Nidhi’s roots are from Nagore District in Rajasthan, India. Nidhi and her partner, Krupa Patel, made history by performing the rst ever arangetram in Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniattam at the landmark Carnegie Hall in New York City. Nidhi is an honors graduate of the Living ston High School Class of 2022, and is currently a freshman at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachu setts, where she is studying business with a focus on entrepreneurship.

History was made on July 9th at Carnegie Hall in NYC when Nidhi Ladda and Krupa Patel performed their arangetrams, their Indian Classical Dance graduation debuts. Mr. Prem Bhandhari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA (a subsidiary of Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayayt Smiti—the world’s largest organization for handicapped with a total number of bene ciaries ranging over 2 million) was the Chief Guest at the arangetram. Speaking on the occasion, he praised the masterful performance which brought recog nition to India’s rich culture and heritage.

R R

Happy Deepavali Mahotsav

From NAVNEET & BEENA KOTHARI

*Funding Member of Indian American Community of Long Island Inc.

*Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), New York - President

* Suffolk County Human Rights Commission Member

* Suffolk County Women Advisory Commission Member and current Secretary

* INDIA DAY PARADE PRESIDENT / CHAIR 2015 - 2018

* India Association of Long Island (IALI) President (2016)

*Association of Indians in America (AIA-NY) Secretary

* Indian American Forum (IAF) – Board Member

*Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), Board of Director (BOD)

*Long Island Ladies Association (LILC) – Trustee

*South Asian Women Activities Organization (SAWAO) BOD/Advisory

*Jain Samaj of Long Island (JSLI), Board Member

Rajasthan Association of North America

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Rajasthan Association of North America

Congratulations to RANA and all Honorees

From Rajmaai

Dr. Uday Chadha

Dr. Bharat Gupta Dr. Anand kanjolia Dr. Harish Chandana Dr. Shashi shah

Dr. Praveen Singhal

Dr. Raj Modi Dr. Lucky Jain

Homage to

Dr Ajay Lodha & Rajeev Garg & Congratulations to Honorees Dr Raj Bansal Dr Shubha Jain Dr sadhana joshi Rakesh Goenka &

Rajasthan Association of North America

Prof. Nicole Balbir क सपादन

रलचत Dictionnaire Général Hindi Français में व Prof. Annie Montaut क साथ लहदी क अध्यापन क ललय उपयक्त पस्तक Parlons Hindi में सहयोगी रहीं । साथ ही लोक सालहत्य, भारतीय सभ्यता सस्कलत , Ethnologie आलद के िेि में भी शोध-कायम करती रहीं व लवलभन्न पि -पलिकाओपस्तकों म लख प्रकालशत लकए । Prof. Jean Luc Chambard साहब के लनदेशन में Les Pratiques Religieuses des Femmes Hindoues du Rajasthan (राजस्थान की लहद नाररयों की धालममक साधनाएँ) पर शोध प्रबध ललखा व Ph.D. की लडग्री ली; बाद में CD के प्रकाशन के समय उसका नाम La Femme Hindoue en Quête de Liberté à Travers la Religion (लहद नारी

Rajasthan

Congratulations

to Raj Bansal Shubha Jain Rakesh Goenka and Sadhana Joshi

From Neelam, Raj, Neeraj and Aparna Modi

VIJAY & KALPANA Arya Foundation

Rajasthan Association of North America

Swarn Arya & Manveer Rehal Simran, Sajel , Krishna

Rajasthan

Rajasthan Association of North America

RAJASTHAN FAST FACTS

Rajasthan India, is bounded on the west and northwest by Pakistan, on the north and northeast by the Indian states of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, on the east and southeast by the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, and on the southwest by the state of Gujarat. The Tropic of Cancer passes through its south ern tip in the Banswara district.

Western Rajasthan is relatively dry and infertile; and includes some of the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert. The climate varies throughout Rajasthan as you'll see when you travel to Rajasthan, India. On average winter temperatures range from 8° to 28° C (46° to 82° F) and summer temperatures range from 25° to 46° C (77° to 115° F)

Area: 342,239 sq km.

Population: 56.5 million.

Languages: Hindi, Marwari, and Rajasthani.

Capital: Jaipur

Literacyrate(2001): 61.03 %

Crops: Cotton, Millet, Oilseeds, pulses, wheat, and sugarcane.

Industries:Cement, Chemicals, Handicrafts, Sugar, and textiles.

Airports: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner and Jaisalmer.

Festivals: Desert festival of Jaisalmer, Holi, Gangaur, Teej, Raksha Bandhan, Dussehra, and Diwali.

Legends: The history of Rajasthan tells us that it was divided into nineteen kingdoms. Each ruled by a Maharaja. A brave Rajput was bestowed the noble title of Thakur. The Thakur was given control over a part of the land in the kingdom, where he established his own mini kingdom and ruled from a fort or a palace. In return he supplied soldiers - horses, camels and warriors - to ght the wars for the Maharaja. Most of the Takhurs gained the title through some forefather's bravery in war. The Thakur's family would proudle claim that they got the estate in "mund kati", literally meaning beheading. Others gained the Takhur title through marriage, and obtained the estate through the less attering term "gagharia".

SocietyandCulture

The Rajputs though representing only a small percentage of the population, are the most important section of the population in Rajasthan. They are proud of their warlike reputation and of their ancestry. When you travel to Rajasthan, India, you will see their numerous forts and palaces, which are popular tourist attractions today.

The principal language of the state is Rajasthani, comprising a group of Indo-Aryan dialects derived from Dingal, a tongue in which bards once sang of the glories of their masters. Its place is being taken by Hindi (the o cial state language of Rajasthan). Hinduism, the religion of most of the population, is generally practiced.

Islam, the religion of the state's second largest religious community, expanded in Rajasthan with the conquest of Ajmer by Muslim invaders in the late 12th century. The tomb of Khwajah Muin-ud-Din Chishti, the Muslim holy man, at Ajmer, is a signi cant pilgrimage destination.

FairsandFestivals

The spring festival Gangaur during late March to early April and the Teej festival between early and late August are important. The Teej welcomes the monsoon, when the state's many lakes become full. The Pushkar camel and cattle fair during mid-November, the Nagaur festival during late January to early February and the Koolyat Fair at Bikaner during mid to late November are well known fairs. The Desert Festival at Jaisalmer during early to mid-February is a famous modern fair. Tourists travel to Rajasthan, India from all over the world to see this colorful event.

EconomyandInfrastructure

Rajasthan's economy is mainly agricultural; millet, wheat, maize (corn), and cotton are grown. The state is also known for its mineral resources and precious and semi-precious stones. Tourism is also an important part of the economy, as you will see when you travel to Rajasthan, India.

Honoring Healthcare Heroes

In respectful and loving memory of Dr. Ajay Lodha

Thank you to all healthcare workers, who wake up everyday to do what no one else will do, in a way that no one else can.

With appreciation and love from the Nao Medical Family.

- Ashok.U.Shah

Rajasthan Association of North America