Glittering Inaugural Reception Held By Consulate In LA To Mark India R-Day
By Fatema Baldiwala
LOS ANGELES, CA – India’s 77th Republic Day was marked with ceremony and political significance on January 26 at the California Club in downtown Los Angeles, in the first Republic Day reception hosted by the Consulate General of India in Los Angeles. The event drew elected officials, diplomats, community leaders, and figures from the arts and culture, reflecting the expanding role of the Indian diaspora in California.
The celebration drew an impressive roster of dignitaries, including Congressman Brad Sherman, Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman (District 4), Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Sharona Nazarian, Santa Monica Mayor, the Deputy Mayor of Los Angeles, Riverside Councilmember Steven Robillard (Ward 3), representatives from the offices of the Lieutenant Governor of California and the California State Senate, members of the diplomatic corps, and leaders from across Southern California’s Indian American community.
At the heart of the celebration was a reflection on India’s constitutional values and its evolving role on the global stage. In his address, Consul General of India Dr. K.J. Srinivasa highlighted the enduring democratic ideals enshrined in India’s Constitution.
“In 1950, India drafted a constitution that gave enduring expression to the ideals of liberty, equality, and justice,” he said. “The Indian Constitution begins with the words ‘We, the People,’ inspired by the United States Constitution. These principles remain central to India’s democratic ethos.”
Srinivasa emphasized India’s emergence as a global leader, noting that India recently became the world’s fourth-largest economy. He pointed to India’s role as a major engine of global growth, a hub for technology and innovation, and a responsible stakeholder in global governance.
Speaking to the significance of the location, he added that Los Angeles, defined by creativity, diversity, and innovation, plays a unique role in the India–U.S. relationship.
“California, and Los Angeles in particular, serves as a bridge between Asia and America,” he said, citing expanding cooperation in technology, climate action, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, clean energy, and defense innovation, as well as growing collaboration between Hollywood and India’s film and digital media industries.
Two distinguished individuals were honored for lifetime contributions spanning science and culture: Dr. Mani Bhaumik, the acclaimed physicist known for his pioneering role in developing the excimer laser, which paved the way for LASIK eye surgery and tabla maestro Pandit Abhijit Banerjee, was celebrated for his extraordinary and enduring contributions to Indian classical music.
Elected officials echoed the themes of democracy, representation, and shared values.
Councilmember Raman spoke movingly about representation and belonging. “I moved to Los Angeles as an adult, and I was absolutely proud and overjoyed that this city was willing to elect a person of South Asian descent,” she said. “Through my presence and partnerships, we’ve been able to honor Indian history and South Asian culture at City Hall. In Los Angeles, we say India and America will continue strong, will continue our friendship, and will continue achieving success together.”
Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Sharona Nazarian, joined by Huma Ahmad, the city’s first Indian American City Clerk, reflected on democracy as both a celebration and a responsibility.
Congressman Sherman emphasized the community’s achievements, stating,
“Indian Americans are the best educated and highest income earners in the United States. Given the intelligence of the community, it’s not surprising that so many help design and build the future right here in Los Angeles.”
The evening concluded on a celebratory note with a showcase of Indian classical and folk dance.
