Community Honors Deputy Consul General Rakesh Adlakha

By Navneet S. Chugh

ARTESIA, CA — The Indian American community gathered on the afternoon of September 7 at Café Korner here to honor Rakesh Adlakha, Deputy Consul General of India in San Francisco, for his outstanding service and deep commitment to the diaspora. The luncheon drew people from across Southern California, each voicing their appreciation for a diplomat who, they said, had become more than a representative of India—he had become a trusted friend.

In his remarks, Adlakha confirmed a development that the community has long awaited: the Consulate General of India in Los Angeles on Wilshire Blvd will officially begin functioning on January 1, 2026. He acknowledged the “big demand” from Indian Americans and Indian businesses for a permanent diplomatic presence in Los Angeles, a city with robust commercial ties to India and one of the largest Indian diasporas in the United States.

“This is not just an office opening,” he said. “It is a recognition of the importance of this region—the business opportunities, the cultural connections, and the energy of our vibrant community.”

Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, a seasoned diplomat who earlier served as Deputy Consul General in San Francisco, will be the first Consul General of India in Los Angeles.

The consulate, long demanded by the vibrant Indian American community, will be housed at the Aon Center, 707 Wilshire Boulevard in downtown Los Angeles, occupying a full 20,500-square-foot floor on a 10-year lease. It will serve Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico, offering visas, passports, OCI, and emergency services, and marks a milestone in easing access for the region’s growing diaspora.

Throughout the luncheon, Adlakha struck a deeply personal tone, setting aside the formality of diplomacy. “I have never felt this work as work,” he said with a smile. “I am friends with all of you. I treat you not as community members, but as friends.”

He noted that he understands the importance of timely visas for travel to India and reassured attendees that the consulate has “done everything possible” to expedite the process. He emphasized the rollout of new VFS services designed to simplify visa applications, along with the availability of an emergency phone number for urgent assistance.

Adlakha thanked the Indian American community for its consistent support of the consulate’s mission. “Prime Minister Modi is very supportive of the role you all are playing here,” he said. “All of you have been helpful to the consulate, and for that, I remain deeply grateful.”

Community Voices

One by one, speakers at the event praised Adlakha for his accessibility, humility, and dedication. Many recalled instances where he had gone beyond his official duties to help families, expedite visas, or support community events. Several noted that he had become a familiar and reassuring presence at cultural celebrations, business summits, and nonprofit initiatives.

“He has been great for the community,” said one speaker. “Always helpful, always approachable. He listens.”

Others described him as a bridge-builder, fostering goodwill between India and the United States not only through formal diplomacy but also through genuine friendship.