HICKSVILLE, N.Y. – The American Punjabi Society held its annual gala this week, drawing elected officials, diplomats, business leaders and community members to celebrate Punjabi culture, service and leadership.
The event, held at Pearl Banquet Hall, highlighted the organization’s humanitarian work, cultural programming and youth initiatives, while honoring longtime community leader Harry Singh Bolla with its highest recognition, the Punjabi Ratan Award.
APS Vice President Ajay Vir S. Sondhi opened the program, followed by General Secretary VPS Sikka, who introduced President Gary S. Sikka and praised his leadership and commitment to community service.
In his opening remarks, President Sikka expressed gratitude and reaffirmed the organization’s mission of seva, or selfless service, along with cultural preservation and unity. He credited APS’s growth and accomplishments to collective community support.
Padma Bhushan award recipient Sant Singh Chatwal delivered keynote remarks, reflecting on the importance of cultural organizations in strengthening identity within the Indian diaspora. Chatwal, who played a key role in facilitating President Bill Clinton’s historic 2000 visit to India, praised APS for its work in community building, youth empowerment and humanitarian service.
“APS is doing exemplary work in bringing our community together through seva, culture and service,” Chatwal said, also commending Sikka and his leadership team.
The evening’s centerpiece was the presentation of the Punjabi Ratan Award to Harry Singh Bolla, a patron of APS recognized for his philanthropy and leadership. Accepting the honor, Bolla credited his success to faith and community support and dedicated the award to hardworking Punjabis who uphold the spirit of service.
Punjabi film star Neeru Bajwa attended as chief guest and shared reflections on storytelling and cultural expression. The program also featured a live musical performance by Punjabi singer Ms. Pooja, who energized the audience.
APS leaders highlighted the organization’s 2024–2025 initiatives, including a Gurdham Yatra pilgrimage with 135 participants, blood donation drives, cancer awareness walks, youth mentorship programs and Vaisakhi celebrations in partnership with Nassau County.
Women’s Council Chair Navneet Sikka Sondhi spoke about women-led initiatives and announced upcoming winter coat and children’s holiday gift drives.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Indian Consul General Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, state and local officials from across Long Island, and representatives from Indian-American organizations, faith institutions and law enforcement affinity groups.
In closing remarks, President Sikka thanked APS officers, advisory board members and volunteers, noting that the gala reflected a community “rooted in seva, united by culture, and strengthened by shared purpose.”
The American Punjabi Society is a nonprofit organization focused on preserving Punjabi heritage, promoting service, empowering youth and fostering civic engagement within the Indian-American community.
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