New York, April 12, 2025 — The Consulate General of India in New York, in collaboration with the Indian American Muslims of North America (IMNA), hosted a vibrant and heartwarming Eid celebration that brought together community members, faith leaders, dignitaries, and elected officials under one roof to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
The evening commenced with a soulful recitation from the Holy Quran by Qari Hafiz Faizan Mohammed Khan, with the English translation delivered by Zoha Fatima Ahmed. This spiritual opening aimed at setting a peaceful tone for the evening’s program, centered on themes of reflection, unity, and celebration.
A young speaker, Nimra Fatima, shared reflections on growing up as a Muslim in America and how the month of Ramadan shaped her identity and connection with her cultural and religious heritage. Her remarks resonated with the audience, highlighting the importance of empowering the next generation, organizers said in a press release.
Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, delivered the keynote address. He spoke fondly of his childhood Eid memories in India and applauded the diaspora for preserving and celebrating the spirit of Eid in their adopted homeland. He thanked all guests and collaborators, especially the Indian American Muslims of North America, Chairman Ilayas Quraishi, and Co-chair Ahmed Shakir, for their efforts in organizing the event.
Ahmed Shakir offered warm welcome remarks and expressed gratitude to the community and all participants for their support.
IMNA President Imtiaz Siamwalla also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity and extending his support for future cultural initiatives.
Chairman Ilayas Quraishi delivered an impassioned speech, encouraging the community to stay engaged, bring their families to such gatherings, and foster inclusivity and leadership among the youth. “You heard from my daughter, Nimra Fatima, earlier as she beautifully described the spirit of Ramadan. I’m proud of her and of all our youth stepping forward,” he said. “Every year, we aim to bring in the younger generation. I urge you all to bring your children, let them speak, let them lead. Each of you is an ambassador of our rich culture and heritage. India is our Janmabhoomi, and America is our Karmabhoomi. We must not only join events representing India — we must lead them.”
Other distinguished guests at the event included:
- Consul General of the Kingdom of Morocco Abdelkader Jamoussi, who praised the Indian diaspora for their inclusive celebration.
- New York State Senator Robert Jackson, who noted his annual attendance at the Eid celebration as a cherished tradition.
- NYC Public Advocate Mr. Jumaane Williams, who expressed Eid greetings and appreciated the efforts to bring the community together, reaffirming his ongoing support for advocacy efforts within the community.
- Deputy Public Advocate Kashif Hussain, who attended as a special guest in support of the South Asian and Muslim community.
- NYS Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani, who proudly identified himself as an Indian Muslim and passionately shared how his family migrated from India nearly 200 years ago. He emphasized how his heritage continues to inspire his work and identity in public service.
- Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan from the NYC Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, who affirmed his commitment to supporting such meaningful initiatives.
- A representative from NYC Councilman Salam Yousef’s office, who joined the gathering and commended the event’s spirit of inclusion and cross-cultural unity.
In recognition of IMNA’s continued service and community leadership, a special citation was presented by the Office of NYC Mayor Eric Adams, honoring the organization’s dedication to cultural harmony and interfaith unity.
A special video message from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer extended heartfelt Eid greetings to the Muslim community and acknowledged the efforts of the diaspora in strengthening multicultural ties.
As a tribute to community service and talent, several local leaders and artists were honored during the program, including:
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Plaque for Khaliq Ahmed for outstanding contributions to Community Service
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Plaque for Care and Share Foundation for Community Service
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Honor to Jagdish Sewhani as a respected community leader
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Plaque for Dr. Mohammed Abdul Muneer for excellence in Science and Research
- Special recognition to an Indian American artist Noureen Sultana who flew in all the way from Boston to share in the celebration and showcase community talent
The evening concluded with a soulful ghazal performance by Suman Laskar accompanied by Arindam Chakraborty on tabla.
