The 16th Annual Diwali Gala organized by BRUHUD New York Seniors brought together over 700 members of the Indian community for a vibrant celebration. Held on Sunday, the event featured cultural festivities and discussions on key community issues.
Key Highlights and Special Guests
Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, served as the event’s Chief Guest. In his speech, he announced two upcoming Jaipur Foot camps in Gujarat, aimed at supporting the differently-abled in tribal and rural areas.
Dr. Rekha Bhandari emphasized the unique challenges faced by Indian-origin seniors in the U.S., particularly loneliness and cultural barriers.
Honoring Community Leaders
The gala recognized several individuals for their contributions:
– Varun Jeph, Deputy Consul General of India in New York, was honored for his service to the Indian diaspora.
– Mohan Nannapaneni, Founder of Team Aid, was applauded for assisting with the repatriation of mortal remains.
Jaipur Foot Initiative Updates
Prem Bhandari shared updates on the ongoing global efforts of Jaipur Foot:
– A camp at the Somnath Temple in Gujarat is currently fitting 600 individuals with prosthetics.
– Plans for a permanent Jaipur Foot center in Malawi were announced, marking a significant milestone for the organization.
BRUHUD’s Mission
Founded in 2009, BRUHUD is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Indian-origin seniors. The group hosts events focusing on health, community, and cultural integration.
