Edison, NJ – Indian American community leaders gathered on September 22, 2025, in New Jersey to honor Parshottam Rupala, Indian Member of Parliament and former Union Minister. Some 300 distinguished members of the diaspora attended.
Rupala, revered as the “Lion of Saurashtra” for his three decades of unwavering public service, delivered a compelling address that resonated deeply with attendees, a press release from organizers said. “You embody the spirit of modern India,” Rupala said. “Your achievements on American soil reflect the limitless potential of our motherland and strengthen the ties that bind our nations together.”
Ankur Vaidya, chairman of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) NY-NJ-CT-NE), offered passionate remarks in Gujarati, honoring Rupala’s dedication to Gujarat and India. Vaidya’s address highlighted how the Modi government’s visionary diaspora policies have revolutionized India’s relationship with its overseas communities, creating unprecedented opportunities for collaboration.
Past President of FIA Kenny Desai, delivered an emotionally charged tribute, recounting Rupala’s journey from his early inspiration during the “Jan Seva Yatra” at age 13 to his current parliamentary role. Desai quoted from Zaverchand Meghani’s poetic wisdom: relentless progress “one step ahead, beyond the chest of the sea,” symbolizing unwavering commitment to national service, as a reflection of Rupala’s vision.
Special birthday cake celebrating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday, presented during the community reception in Edison, New Jersey.Piyush Patel emphasized how under Modi’s leadership, Gujarat has achieved the distinction of being India’s number one state. He praised Rupala’s 34 years of service, highlighting his unwavering commitment as a “pure BJP man” who has consistently served party and nation with distinction, the press release said.
FIA President Saurin Parikh echoed the testimonials, reinforcing the community’s unified support for India’s parliamentary leadership. FIA Convenor Sreekanth Akkapalli welcomed attendees in this Navratri season, emphasizing how the community’s presence transformed the reception into a genuine homecoming.
Past President of FIA, Dr. Avinash Gupta, represented the Shree Siddhivinayak Temple USA and multiple community organizations, bringing scholarly perspective and emphasizing the importance of preserving the Indian American narrative for future generations.
Abhesinh Rathod’s gave a stirring rendition of the beloved Gujarati song “Mor Bani Thangat Kare,” which speaks to cultural pride of the diaspora audience present at the gathering.
The reception was organized by FIA-NY NJ CT NE in collaboration with prominent organizations including Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, GANA, BJANA, TV9 USA, TV Asia, Parikh Worldwide Media, Shree Siddhivinayak Temple USA, UPFNA, FISANA, World Vegan Vision, Sai Datta Peetham and SPCS. It embodied the living relationship between India and its diaspora – a community excelling in their adopted homeland while remaining deeply rooted in cultural heritage, organizers said.
The highlight came with the presentation of a special proclamation to Rupala, acknowledging his tireless service and role in strengthening India-diaspora relations.
The event reinforced that the Indian American community continues serving as cultural ambassadors, strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the world’s two largest democracies, organizers said.
