Global Indian Diaspora Alliance Celebrates Community Leaders at “Icons of Impact Gala”
On May 29, 2026, the Global Indian Diaspora Alliance (GLO-INDIA) hosted its first “Icons of Impact Gala” to recognize individuals who have made meaningful contributions to society. The event was held to honor various leaders within the community for their outstanding achievements.
The gala kicked off with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by notable figures including Dr. Rajeev Mehta, Chairman of GLO-INDIA, H.S. Panaser, the organization’s President, and Rajlaxmi Kadam, a representative from the Indian Consulate in New York. The event was emceed by Ajooni Kaur from Sanofi and Alicia Kaur from Columbia University, adding a lively touch to the evening.
After the Pledge of Allegiance, attendees enjoyed stirring performances of the national anthems of the United States and India, beautifully sung by Alicia Kaur, which was a highlight of the evening.
Dr. Rajeev Mehta and others addressed the audience, emphasizing the importance of leadership, innovation, and service within the growing Indian diaspora. Among the distinguished speakers was Dr. Sudhir Parikh, a Padma Shri awardee and chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media.
The gala recognized various individuals whose work has greatly impacted diverse fields, including business, healthcare, and community service. Notable honorees included Roop Singh, CEO of Version 1, Dr. Navneet Puri, and Dr. Pardeep Gupta, among others.
GLO-INDIA highlighted these honorees’ dedication to innovation and excellence, which continues to inspire others in the community.
The event also celebrated elected officials for their commitment to public service, with special messages from dignitaries such as New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and New York Governor Kathy Hochul, thanking the honorees for their work.
Recognitions included proclamations from various senators and assembly members, acknowledging the dedication of individuals involved in enriching the community.
In conclusion, the gala was a resounding success, highlighting the contributions of the Indian diaspora and fostering a sense of community and collaboration. GLO-INDIA expressed gratitude towards all participants and supporters, notably Dr. Manjeet K. Panaser, Ajooni Kaur, and Alicia Kaur, whose efforts made the event memorable.
