The Consulate General of India in New York marked Gujarat and Maharashtra Day on May 3, celebrating the contributions of both states and of the Indian diaspora to India–US ties. Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra described the diaspora as a “living bridge” that strengthens bilateral relations.
Former Union Minister Suresh Prabhu, speaking at the event, highlighted the roles Gujarat and Maharashtra have played in India’s growth and development. Ambassador Kwatra presented honors to several individuals recognized for their achievements across public service, arts and culture: Suresh Prabhu; Hemant Marathe, Mayor of West Windsor; Pulkit Desai, Mayor of Parsippany‑Troy Hills; Grammy winner Falu Shah; actresses Archana Joglekar and Pooja Jhaveri; and Gujarati folk singer Hardik Chauhan.
The Consulate thanked community partners, including the Gujarati Associations of North America and the Federation of Indian Associations, for organizing the celebrations. Photos and a post about the event were shared on the Consulate’s X account, amplifying messages of appreciation for the diaspora’s role in fostering connections between India and the United States.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings for both Gujarat Day and Maharashtra Day via X, praising Gujarat’s heritage, culture and entrepreneurial spirit and lauding Maharashtra’s cultural legacy and contributions to literature, music, cinema, industry and education. May 1 is observed as the foundation day for both states, marking their formation in 1960 following the division of Bombay State under the Bombay Reorganisation Act, which came into effect on May 1, 1960.
Report sourced from the ANI syndicated feed.
