Our Bureau
Edison, NJ
The Rajasthani Organization of American Residents (ROAR) proudly celebrated its landmark 10th Annual Teej Mahotsav 2026, bringing together thousands of community members, dignitaries, business leaders, families, artists, and cultural enthusiasts for one of the largest and most authentic celebrations of Rajasthan outside India.
The evening was a magnificent showcase of Rajasthan’s rich heritage, beginning with the grand Teej Mata Procession, accompanied by a beautifully decorated camel, traditional dhwajas, ringing temple bells, and joyous chants of “Jai Teej Mata.” Women dressed in vibrant traditional attire danced gracefully to the beats of dhol and folk music, while the entire gathering came together in devotion and celebration.
Guests enjoyed a spectacular cultural program featuring colorful folk performances, energetic men’s dances, the iconic Ghoomar, youth presentations, and the highly anticipated International Rajasthan Pageant 2026. The celebration reached new heights with a mesmerizing live concert by renowned Bollywood singer Vineet Singh, who traveled from India especially for this milestone event and captivated the audience with an unforgettable performance.
One of the proudest moments of the evening was the official launch of The Sanganak Initiative by the Youth of Rajasthan (YOR). This charitable initiative aims to modernize government schools by establishing computer laboratories and providing access to technology for underprivileged students across Rajasthan, reaffirming ROAR’s commitment to education and community service beyond cultural celebrations.
The evening also honored exceptional individuals for their outstanding contributions to society.
The prestigious Bhamashah Award was presented to Mr. Piyush Patel in a grand traditional ceremony featuring drum rolls and a royal Pagdi Ceremony, symbolizing Rajasthan’s timeless tradition of honoring generosity and service.
The Women Achiever Award was presented to Mrs. Beena Kothari, who was honored with a royal Rajasthani dupatta and ceremonial drum rolls in recognition of her decades of leadership, philanthropy, and dedication to community service.
The International Rajasthan Pageant 2026 crowned a new generation of cultural ambassadors:
• Sanju Purohit – Mrs. Rajasthan International 2026
• Mati Rajvanshi – Miss Rajasthan International 2026
• Tanvi Agrawal – Miss Teen Rajasthan International 2026
• Akansha Jain – Teej Queen 2026
ROAR also recognized the contributions of previous pageant winners Payal Sharma, Millie Rajput, Bhavana Nigam, Jeeval Paliwal, and Mati Rajvanshi whose continued support strengthens the organization’s mission. Special appreciation was extended to Bhavana Nigam for sponsoring the beautiful welcome dupattas presented to guests.
The celebration was attended by distinguished dignitaries including Mayor Neena Singh, Councilman Viru Patel, Councilman Rajesh Mehta, along with respected community leaders and ROAR Patrons Haridas Kotahwala, Naveen Shah, Parmeshwar Soni, Chandra Sukhwal, and C. P. Joshi, whose guidance and support continue to strengthen the organization.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of the extraordinary efforts of ROAR President Tarang Soni, whose tireless dedication, leadership, and months of planning helped transform the milestone celebration into a resounding success. Working relentlessly for several months alongside the organizing committee, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners, Tarang Soni led one of the largest cultural celebrations in ROAR’s history.
The organization also applauded the remarkable efforts of the Youth of Rajasthan (YOR) under the leadership of President Atharva Soni and the entire YOR Board for their outstanding commitment to preserving Rajasthan’s heritage while inspiring the next generation of leaders.
ROAR expressed heartfelt gratitude to its dedicated volunteers, whose selfless service made the celebration possible. Special recognition was given to Shailesh Paliwal, Lavanya Vyas, Jeet Rawal, Sanju Purohit, Sanjay Sharma, Sachin Jain, Pradeep Sharma, Lalit Bansal, Bhushan Mittal, Navita Goyal, Ritu Diwan, Nandita Jain, Megan Mehnot, Shweta Tulsyan, and Shweta Thakral, along with the many volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Special thanks were extended to Eric Diamani for choreographing the International Rajasthan Pageant, polishing dance performances, managing backstage operations, and serving as Master of Ceremonies. ROAR also acknowledged the unwavering support of Albert Jasani, owner of Royal Albert Palace, whose partnership and hospitality over several months played an instrumental role in the success of the event.
Guests enjoyed an authentic culinary experience featuring traditional Rajasthani favorites including Dal Baati Churma, Sangri ki Sabzi, and Ghevar, bringing the flavors of Rajasthan to New Jersey.
ROAR also expressed sincere appreciation to its generous sponsors, including Navika Group, Blue Sky Hospitality, RIU, Bikaji, Protrude Technologies, Saffaltech, 9Lakha Jewelers, Tanishq, Sukh Sagar Restaurant, Chauhaan Jewellers, Royal Alberts Palace, Mandap Milap and the many other sponsors and supporters whose generosity made this celebration possible.
The organization further thanked its media partners EBC Radio, Radio Zindagi, The Indian Eye, Parikh Media, iTV Gold, The World Voice, Aaj Tak Admark, Mana TV, and many journalists, photographers, videographers, and media professionals whose coverage helped share the celebration with audiences across the United States and beyond.
ROAR also acknowledged with profound gratitude the congratulatory and blessing letters received from Ms. Mickie Sherill, the Governor of New Jersey, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria – the Governor of Punjab, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma – the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, His Royal Highness Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur, and His Royal Highness Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur, whose messages added immense prestige and honor to this milestone celebration.
Reflecting on the success of the event, ROAR President Tarang Soni said:
“Teej Mahotsav is much more than a festival. It is a celebration of our identity, our roots, and our responsibility to preserve Rajasthan’s rich heritage for future generations. Seeing thousands of people united in culture, tradition, and community service fills us with immense pride. This success belongs to every member, volunteer, sponsor, media partner, dignitary, performer, and supporter who believed in our vision. Together, we have not only celebrated Rajasthan—we have strengthened our community and built a legacy that will continue for generations.”
As ROAR celebrates ten successful years of Teej Mahotsav in New Jersey, the organization remains committed to preserving Rajasthan’s cultural heritage, empowering youth, supporting charitable initiatives, and strengthening community bonds across the United States.