Our Bureau
Houston, TX
The Indian American Public Affairs Council (IAPAC) hosted its annual Gratitude with Global Cultures and Religions luncheon, a sold-out event held at the Eternal Gandhi Museum, bringing together many elected officials, community leaders, and representatives of nine faith traditions for an afternoon centered on unity, gratitude, and service.
The event’s Master of Ceremonies, Venilla Rajaguru, delivered the welcome remarks, setting the tone for an afternoon of gratitude, reflection, and community celebration.
IAPAC President Dr. Roopa Gir introduced the organization and its mission, providing a brief historical background of both the Indian American Public Affairs Council and the Political Action Committee. The PAC focuses on advocacy for Indian Americans, while the Public Affairs Council promotes civic engagement and education through programs such as Conversations Over Coffee (COC@IAPAC), Women Empowerment (WE@IAPAC), Youth Outreach and Upliftment (YOU@IAPAC), and the annual Gratitude gathering to honor elected officials and build bridges across cultures and religions. Dr. Gir also introduced the incoming IAPAC President, Naveen Kochoth, the current PAC President Dr. Purusottam Sahoo, and the incoming PAC President for 2026, Shiv Khandavelu, acknowledging their leadership in advancing the missions of both IAPAC and the PAC. In her speech, Dr. Gir also introduced all members of IAPAC’s leadership team, highlighting the dedication of volunteers and board members who guide the Council’s initiatives.
The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the IAPAC Community Impact Award 2025 to philanthropist Janardan Thakkar. Reflecting on his journey from arriving in the United States in 1974 as a young man pursuing education and opportunity, Thakkar shared, “Much of my philanthropic journey has been guided by two simple truths: ‘A mind is a terrible thing to waste,’ and ‘You can’t take it with you.’ Discovering this clarity of purpose has been a true gift. It energizes and inspires me every day.”
Thakkar emphasized his commitment to education and community service, highlighting organizations that are close to his heart, including Akshaya Patra Foundation in India, OSAAT & iEducate in Houston, The 100 Club, Alzheimer’s Association, and Project One Day, which support children, teachers, first responders, and families in need. He added, “These organizations afford me the opportunity to give back in a way that felt deeply aligned with my values—supporting communities that shaped my journey and causes where my wife and I could have a meaningful, lasting impact.”
IAPAC’s work was also recognized with a proclamation from Congressman Al Green’s office and certificates from Fort Bend County Commissioner Leslie Briones and Sugar Land Mayor Carol McCutcheon, highlighting the Council’s impact on the community.
Elected officials who attended spoke about gratitude, public service, and collaboration. Among them, Texas State Representative Dr. Suleman Lalani remarked, “Events like this remind us that our strength comes from working together—public servants, community organizations, faith leaders, and volunteers. IAPAC has created a space that truly reflects the spirit of our region.”
One of the luncheon’s most memorable moments was the Interfaith Invocation of Gratitude, with leaders from Zoroastrian, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, Hindu, Islamic, Christian, Jewish, and Bahá’í communities offering prayers of reflection. “I was especially touched by how you brought political, community, and faith organizations together in one space,” said Meheryar Noshir Rivetna of the Zoroastrian Association of Houston. “The openness, kindness, and respect with which everyone shared their perspectives made the luncheon truly meaningful.”
Incoming IAPAC President Naveen Kochoth delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to elected officials, faith leaders, volunteers, and community partners. Guests concluded the event with a vegetarian buffet and continued conversations that reflected the day’s themes of gratitude and connection.
About IAPAC:
The Indian American Public Affairs Council (IAPAC) is a 501(c)(3), nonpartisan organization committed to advancing civic engagement, leadership development, and community service in Greater Houston. Through programs dedicated to women’s empowerment, youth upliftment, multicultural dialogue, and public affairs, IAPAC works to strengthen community ties and foster meaningful civic participation.
