Our Bureau
New York, NY
The National Alliance of Indian Organizations (NAIO), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, New York, successfully hosted a distinguished Curtain Raiser and Media Conference on Friday, July 17, 2026. The event served as a major prelude to the upcoming grand celebration of Azadi Ka Mahotsav, marking the dual milestone of India’s 80th Independence Day and America’s 250th Anniversary.
Held at the Consulate General of India, the evening brought together a diverse group of community representatives, business figures, Indian-American organization leaders, and prominent media outlets, signaling growing support for NAIO’s initiative to establish a unified platform for Americans of Indian origin.
The gathering kicked off with an introduction by Master of Ceremonies Madhu Pareek, followed by a traditional Ganesh Vandana.
Taking the stage to outline the alliance’s central mission, Dr. Raj Bhayani, Founder Trustee of NAIO, emphasized the necessity of bringing together social, cultural, professional, business, and religious groups across the nation to build a stronger, more collaborative community voice.
“NAIO is committed to uniting Indian Americans across social, cultural, professional, business, and religious organizations to create a stronger, more influential, and collaborative community,” said Dr. Raj Bhayani.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Binaya Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, commended NAIO’s mission to rally the diaspora and bolster ties between the United States and India. He called on the community to work collectively through shared democratic values and public service.
Leadership members also detailed the road ahead for the alliance:
Chintu Patel noted that NAIO is currently in its formative stage, urging community members to participate actively to secure a lasting foundation for future generations.
Harry Singh Bolla stressed the vital role of political awareness and civic involvement, urging greater participation in the democratic process to build long-term community influence.
Naveen Shah presented NAIO’s organizational framework and strategic roadmap for establishing an inclusive national network.
Kenny Desai detailed a nationwide campaign that will see leaders travel state by state across the country to bring local organizations into the alliance fold.
Additional addresses underscoring the importance of unity were delivered by Dr. Navin Mehta, Dr. Dipak Nandi, H. R. Shah, Dr. Datta Noori, and Gary Sikka. The program also featured a patriotic performance of “Jai Ho,” a video showcase of future initiatives presented by H. R. Shah, and an interactive Q&A session between media members and NAIO leadership.
A special promotional video was unveiled, previewing the official Azadi Ka Mahotsav celebration scheduled for August 15, 2026, at the Long Island Marriott in Uniondale, NY.
The event drew robust coverage from prominent Indian-American media networks and figures, including Sunil Hali (Radio Zindagi & The Indian Eye), Harish Goyal (Zee TV), Jas Punjabi, Jai Singh, representatives from TV Asia, and members from various digital, print, and broadcast outlets.
The formal proceedings wrapped up with a Vote of Thanks by Shashi Malik, a group photo session coordinated by Rita Batheja, and a networking dinner. NAIO leadership expressed deep gratitude to Consul General Binaya Pradhan, the consulate staff, along with all participating founders, trustees, volunteers, sponsors, and media partners.
With momentum building, NAIO is gearing up to welcome thousands of attendees to the Long Island Marriott on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The landmark Azadi Ka Mahotsav event will celebrate freedom, diversity, and the enduring bond between the United States and India, further cementing NAIO’s role as a unifying voice for the Indian diaspora.
The National Alliance of Indian Organizations (NAIO) is a nationwide coalition dedicated to bringing Americans of Indian Origin onto one united platform by connecting social, cultural, religious, professional, business, educational, and community organizations across the United States. Through collaboration, leadership, civic engagement, advocacy, and service, NAIO seeks to strengthen the voice and influence of the Indian American community while fostering stronger India–United States relations and creating opportunities for future generations.
