Indian Association of Los Angeles Celebrates Silver Anniversary, India’s 75th R-Day
India-West Staff Reporter
BURBANK, CA – The Indian Association of Los Angeles (IALA) hosted a huge India Republic Day celebration with over 500 guests at the Arbat Banquet, here on February 3. The new Counsel General of India in San Francisco, Dr Srikar Reddy headlined the gala which featured speeches and entertainment with a live band.
IALA President Sunil Agrawal in his welcome, began the event in a unique manner. He presented thirteen videos of various organizations that were present including Ekal Vidyalaya, Akshaya Patra, and Saahas highlighting their work and impact on the community. That he put the spotlight on many others was deeply appreciated by those gathered. It also opened avenues for members of these groups to network and potentially work together too.
The event was a double celebration. Agrawal pointed out that it was the 75th Republic Day of India and also the silver jubilee of IALA. The event, he said, was “a testament to IALA’s success in bringing the community together, fostering unity, diversity, and celebrating India’s progress,” and in keeping with the traditions of India which, “teaches Vasudaiva Kutumbhakam, the whole world is one family.” Kumar Jawa, an IALA co-founder was recognized for his vision in instituting the organization.
The Chairman of the IALA Board, Kanaksinh Zala also spoke lauding the efforts of the organization and introduced the board members to the audience.
Dr. Srikar Reddy, in his speech, highlighted India’s achievements, including landing on the south pole of the moon, hosting the G20 summit, passing historic women empowerment legislation, and becoming the world’s fastest-growing large economy.
The other dignitaries present including Scott M. Schmerelson, Los Angeles Unified School District Board Member, Sean Regan from the office of Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA, 32nd District), and Los Angeles City Councilmember John Lee were recognized on stage by IALA.
IALA also recognized “community heroes” Dr. Anil Shah, Dr. Bharat Patel, and Bharatsinh Zala lauding them for their outstanding contributions, philanthropy and unwavering commitment to work for the betterment of society.
The official proceedings were followed by a sumptuous meal catered by Royal Tandoor of Valencia and entertainment featuring Kathak Kala Academy, a fashion show choreographed by Shagun Gupta and the live band, the OCP group which had everyone on their feet, dancing the night away.
The emcees for the event were Hema Chopra and Raman Chadha while the cultural segment was anchored by Falguni Zala and Hezal Shah.
IALA executive committee members: President Sunil Agarwal, Pramesh Shah, Kiran Kamboj, Dhara Patel, Rajni Thakkar, Robin Paik, Navdeep Singh, Hezal Shah, Shamsher Sidhu, Ramesh Bramharouthu, Dr. Bama Sridhar, Rajesh Khandelwal, Manisha Makwana, Mohinder Kaur, Promilla Sawhney, Vasu Pawar, and dedicated volunteers, namely Prem Seem, Hema Chopra, Nisha Rawal, and Dr. Anjum.
IALA Board: comprised of Chairman Kanaksinh Zala, Kumar Jawa, Raman Chaddha, Manmohan Chopra, Iqbal Samra, Ranjit Joea, Satish Tomar, Bob Bawa, Manjeet Wahi, Dr. Jaswant Singh Dhillon, Bavi Sharma, Falguni Zala, and Dr. Kalpesh Patel.
