India Association Of Los Angeles Elects New Leadership Team

India-West Staff Reporter

LOS ANGELES, CA – The India Association of Los Angeles has elected a new leadership team for 2025 to 2026, choosing longtime volunteer Falguniba Zala as its next president. The unanimous vote on November 12 also confirmed a 20 member executive committee that will guide the organization through its landmark cultural events in the coming year.

IALA was founded in 1999 to preserve and promote Indian heritage, culture, and traditions across Southern California. Zala, a businesswoman who has served in multiple roles within the group over the years, will now lead the association as it continues to expand its cultural footprint. Members described her as a steady presence who has combined professional experience with deep community engagement.

The newly elected team includes Executive Vice President Dharaben Patel, Secretary Ram Bali, Joint Secretary Himesh Mehta, Treasurer Rajesh Khandelwal, Vice President of Finance Robin Paik, Vice President of Publicity Navdeep Singh, Vice President of Cultural Affairs Manisha Makwana, Vice President of Public Relations Kiran Kamboj, Vice President of Youth Affairs Nisha Rawal, and Vice President of Health Bama Sridhar.

Executive members are Vikash Jhunjhunwala, Rekha Khandelwal, Ruhi Chadha, Jugal Kishore, Darshansinh Zala, Sunil Prabhakar, Shekhar Chikhalikar, Ramesh Bramharouthu, and Mohinder Kaur.

IALA holds elections annually, and this year’s slate was confirmed without contest. The organization is widely known for hosting the region’s India Independence Day Mela and the Republic Day celebrations. The Independence Day event alone draws more than ten thousand attendees each year and provides a platform for emerging artists, community performers, and local youth. Past celebrations have featured appearances by members of Congress, Indian diplomats, and other public officials.