Unity And Community Focus Define New York Eid Celebration
India-West News Desk
LONG ISLAND CITY, NY – The Indian American Muslims of North America (IAMNA), in partnership with the Consulate General of India in New York, hosted an Eid celebration on Friday, April 10, at the Five Star Banquet Hall, drawing more than 200 guests, including diplomats, elected officials and interfaith leaders, to mark the conclusion of Ramadan.
Speaking at the event, NY Consul General Binaya Srikanta Pradhan said India’s long-standing pluralistic traditions and large Muslim population reflected a history of coexistence. He described the celebration as an example of “unity in diversity” and noted expanded consular outreach through satellite centers in Edison, New Jersey; Columbus, Ohio; and Boston.
Guest of honor and Consul General of the United Arab Emirates Amna Almheiri said “We have gone through some difficult times back in the UAE and the region, but things are now improving,” Almheiri said. “This makes this Eid celebration even more meaningful, a true celebration of peace, unity and hope.”
Ilayas Quraishi, chairman of IAMNA noted, “This gathering is not just about celebrating Eid, but about celebrating our shared values and collective identity. It demonstrates how our community continues to contribute positively as proud Indian-Americans and as active participants in the broader American society.”
The event featured a distinguished lineup of elected officials and community leaders. Notable attendees included New York State Senator John C. Liu, Assemblyman Landon C. Dais, and New York City Councilwoman Rita Joseph. Representing the federal level, Neeta Jain was in attendance to present a Congressional Certificate of Merit on behalf of Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. Additionally, the gathering welcomed Raj Goyal, who is currently a candidate for New York City Comptroller..
IAMNA also honored entrepreneurs Palvesha Yasin Latiwala and Asra Rashid for service to the community.
The evening included Quran recitation by Umar Faroqui with translation by Zoha Fatima Ahmed, live Qawwali music, comedy performances, and remarks from Imam Ahmed Waheed Sheikh on the spiritual significance of Ramadan and Eid.
