Consulate General Of India Hosts Eid Celebration In New York
India-West Staff Reporter
NEW YORK, NY — The Consulate General of India in New York, in partnership with the Indian American Muslims of North America (IMNA), hosted a vibrant Eid celebration on April 12, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The event was a joyful occasion of reflection, unity, and cultural celebration.
The evening began with a soulful recitation from the Holy Quran, setting a peaceful and spiritual tone for the program. Young speaker Nimra Fatima shared her reflections on growing up as a Muslim in America, discussing how Ramadan shaped her identity and connection to her cultural and religious heritage. Her heartfelt remarks resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of empowering the next generation.
A full house attended the event, which featured remarks from several distinguished figures. Consul General of India in New York, Binaya Pradhan, delivered the keynote address, reminiscing about his childhood Eid celebrations in India. He commended the diaspora for preserving the spirit of Eid in their adopted homeland and thanked all those involved in organizing the event, particularly the Indian American Muslims of North America, Chairman Ilayas Quraishi, and Co-chair Ahmed Shakir.
Quraishi delivered an impassioned speech, urging the community to stay engaged and bring their families to such events. “India is our Janmabhoomi, and America is our Karmabhoomi. We must not only join events representing India — we must lead them,” he said. IMNA President Imtiaz Siamwalla also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of community solidarity and supporting future cultural initiatives.
Present at the event were the Consul General of the Kingdom of Morocco, Abdelkader Jamoussi, New York State Senator Robert Jackson, NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Deputy Public Advocate Kashif Hussain, and NYS Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani. A special video message from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer offering heartfelt Eid greetings to the Muslim community was played.
The program also paid tribute to local leaders and artists, recognizing their community service and contributions. The evening concluded on a melodious note with a soulful ghazal performance by Suman Laskar, accompanied by Arindam Chakraborty on tabla.
