Our Bureau
New York, NY
The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC) proudly congratulates several of its longtime patrons, supporters, collaborators, and friends who have been featured in the second edition of We The People – 250 Voices: A Tribute to the 250 Voices that Shaped the U.S.-India Relationship, published by the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
Unveiled at the IX USISPF Leadership Summit on June 29, 2026, the commemorative volume celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States by recognizing 250 remarkable individuals whose vision, leadership, and achievements have strengthened the enduring partnership between the United States and India.
Together, the IAAC honorees exemplify the breadth of the U.S.-India partnership – from diplomacy and finance to scholarship, visual arts, and cultural leadership – the very values that IAAC has championed for more than twenty-five years through the power of the arts.
Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan: Among those recognized is Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, whose leadership has strengthened people-to-people ties through cultural engagement, education, and community partnerships. His support for IAAC’s festivals and programs has reinforced the role of the arts in advancing public diplomacy and fostering deeper understanding between the two nations.
John Guy: The publication also recognizes John Guy, the internationally acclaimed art historian and curator whose scholarship and landmark exhibitions at The Metropolitan Museum of Art have transformed global understanding of India’s artistic heritage. Through decades of research and curation, he has expanded appreciation of India’s classical, devotional, and courtly traditions while strengthening cultural dialogue between India and the United States. A longtime friend and supporter of IAAC, John has generously shared his expertise in advancing the Council’s visual arts initiatives.
Hugo Weihe: Also honored is Hugo Weihe, the distinguished art historian, curator, and former Head of Indian and Southeast Asian Art at Christie’s, whose scholarship and leadership have elevated Indian and Himalayan art on the global stage. By bringing exceptional works of Indian art to international audiences, he has helped deepen appreciation for India’s rich cultural legacy. His longstanding friendship with IAAC reflects a shared commitment to preserving and celebrating Indian artistic traditions.
Purna R. Saggurti: Representing the worlds of global finance and economic cooperation is Purna Saggurti, Vice Chairman and Chairman of Global Corporate and Investment Banking at Bank of America. Throughout his distinguished career, he has strengthened financial ties between the United States and India by advancing cross-border investment and institutional partnerships. A valued IAAC patron, he has long supported the Council’s belief that cultural exchange is an essential complement to economic collaboration.
“These honorees represent the extraordinary breadth of the Indian American community’s contributions,” said Rajeev Kaul, IAAC Board Member. “Many have championed IAAC’s mission over the years, recognizing that arts and culture are essential pillars of diplomacy and understanding. We congratulate each of them on this well-deserved recognition.”
“The We The People project is ultimately about people whose vision and commitment have deepened one of the world’s most important partnerships,” said Gaurav Verma, IAAC Advisory Board Member. “It is especially meaningful to see so many longtime friends and supporters of IAAC recognized among these 250 distinguished voices. Their achievements across business, public service, philanthropy, and the arts have enriched both our communities and the U.S.-India relationship.”