With Gita Gopinath having been appointed International Monetary Fund’s Chief Economist and Indra Nooyi being considered to lead World Bank as its president, more and more Indian Americans are emerging as policymakers and leaders in key areas from US politics to administration to judiciary. The recent appointment of few Indian Americans as county judges, and President Trump’s latest nomination of three Indian Americans to the Senate validate the fact that the Indian American community is collectively exerting ‘colossal’ power on US economy, politics and administration. On top of that, Hindu-American Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Indian-American Senator Kamala Devi Harris are all set to enter the 2020 Democratic Presidential primary contest.

We at Travel Beats, an Indian American community portal by Indian Eagle took a sneak peek into the profiles and agendas of the newly appointed and emerging Indian American policymakers and leaders.

Dr. Rita Baranwal, Aditya Bamzai, Ram Villivalam, Bimal Patel (left to right)

Dr. Rita Baranwal, Pennsylvania              

The US President Donald Trump’s latest nominations to the Senate for key positions include three Indian Americans: Rita Baranwal, Bimal Patel and Aditya Bamzai. A member of the American Nuclear Society, Dr. Rita Baranwal from Pittsburgh is a nominee for the post of assistant secretary of Nuclear Energy. If the Senate approves her nomination, she will be helming the office of Nuclear Energy in the United States, with a special focus on the department’s nuclear technology research and development. An MIT alumnus having a PhD degree in materials science and engineering from the University of Michigan, Dr. Rita Baranwal is the Director for the Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) initiative.

Aditya Bamzai, Virginia

Nominated to the Senate for the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, Aditya Bamzai from Virginia is a Professor at the University of Virginia’s School of Law. A Yale graduate, he teaches and writes about cybercrimes, national security law, civil procedure and federal courts at the University of Virginia’s School of Law. Earlier, he was appointed a law clerk to Judge Jeffrey Sutton at the US Court of Appeals and to Justice Antonin Scalia at the US Supreme Court. Indian American Aditya Bamzai has also worked in the Office of legal counsel and the National Security Division of the US Department of Justice. If confirmed by the Senate, he will serve the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board until January 29, 2020.

Bimal Patel, Georgia  

President Trump has nominated Indian American Bimal Patel from Georgia for the post of assistant secretary in the US Department of Treasury. An alumnus of Stanford University, Harvard University and Georgetown University Law Center, Bimal Patel currently serves as the deputy assistant secretary of the Treasury for the Financial Stability Oversight Council. Earlier, he worked as an adjunct associate professor at Stanford University and taught a banking regulation course to undergraduate students. He was also a senior advisor to Director Jeremiah O Norton at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Ram Villivalam, Illinois    

Indian American Ram Villivalam, a Democrat from Chicago has recently been sworn in as a member of the Illinois General Assembly in the state’s 8^th district. He took his oath on the Bhagavad Gita, and so did other Indian American legislators including Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. As per the priorities on his agenda for Illinois’ 8^th congressional district, Ram Villivalam is hell-bent on bringing legislation for gun violence prevention, women’s rights, progressive income tax, LGBTQ rights, and hike in minimum wage. Notably, he is looking forward to bringing progressive perspectives to the process of making decisions in the Illinois Senate for the 8^th district covering 21 neighborhoods in Chicago City.

Mona Das, Washington 

India-born Mona Das from the US state of Washington joined the league of Indian American female politicians by taking oath as a senator of the 47^th legislative district in the state. Mona Das whose ancestral home is in a suburban village at a short distance from Kolkata came to the US along with her parents just after eight months of her birth in Munger district of Bihar. A psychology graduate from the University of Cincinnati, Indian American Senator Mona Das will on the Senate Housing Stability and Affordability Committee, the Senate Transportation Committee, the Senate Financial Institutions, Economic Development and Trade Committee, and the Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee.

In her capacity as a Washington State Senator, Mona Das will be advocating the causes related to gender equality for women, environment and minority communities. Her speech on the oath-taking day was eloquent with her love for India and its cultural heritage. She concluded her speech with ‘Jai Hind’ and ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai.’ Like most of Indian American female politicians, Mona Das believes that education is the key to girls’ success and bright future.

Vedica Puri, California  

Vedica Puri from San Francisco is among the few new Indian American faces in the administrative power of the USA. A native of Mumbai, 47-year-old Vedica Puri has been appointed a judge to the San Francisco County Superior Court. A graduate from Santa Clara University School of Law, Vedica Puri is the first Indian American judge in the San Francisco County Superior Court. Her areas of practice include dealing with emerging technology risks to universities and businesses in Silicon Valley. Indian American Vedica Puri is one of the partners at Pillsbury & Coleman LLP.

K. P. George, Texas

Of the new Indian Americans in administrative power, K. P. George has been sworn in to the judgeship of Fort Bend County in Texas. He succeeded Republican Robert Hebert, who designated the position for the past 15 years, and described his eventful journey from a South Indian farmhouse to Fort Bend County Judgeship an inspiring story of perseverance. ‘Never Give up’ was Indian American K. P. George’s message to those in attendance during his oath-taking ceremony.

The chief executive of Fort Bend County Texas, K. P. George promises an effective, efficient and engaging administration to involve youngsters and community members in various nation-building and development projects. He does also guarantee a revision of the emergency management policy as the destruction caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017 still sticks to the public memory.

Better county government transparency, higher levels of community engagement, more youth empowerment, the making of a flood control district, and meticulous emergency-handling plans are what he zeroed in on while campaigning for the judgeship of Fort Bend, the most diverse and 10^th most populous county in Texas. The Fort Bend County Judge is said to exert more power than Indian American mayors of cities in California and New Jersey.

Manjari Chawla, California  

Indian-origin judges in America include attorney Manjari Chawla from Jaipur, Rajasthan. She was the first Indian American to be appointed a hearing judge by the California Supreme Court in San Francisco, in October 2018. As a hearing judge of the State Bar Court, Majari Chawla presides over cases of violation of the State Bar Act and the Rules of Professional Conduct, involving attorneys in California. A member of the San Francisco Court Bar Association, Indian American Manjari Chawla is known for her expertise in fighting for justice to the Asian-origin people in the USA. An alumnus of Yale University, she will be serving the State Bar Court through October 2024.

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The flood-hit Kerala is gradually resurrecting like a phoenix out of the INR 2000-crore loss and devastation. Undeniably, the loss of nearly 400 lives in the Kerala floods 2018 cannot be compensated for. Hundreds of thousands of people have been rendered homeless and sheltered in relief camps across the state. A considerable number of people among the affected have been left destitute by the catastrophe.

However, let’s be optimistic and sanguine about the rehabilitation of the flood-hit Kerala into God’s Own Country. Hope for a silver lining in every cloud does never die. All thanks to the real life heroes contributing directly or indirectly towards rebuilding Kerala and restoring normalcy in the state! Overseas Indians are looking back to Kerala in empathy, love and compassion. Donations, relief materials, prayers and condolences are pouring in from Indian communities in America and in other parts of the world.

In a humanitarian effort to make the flood-affected Kerala stand on its feet again, two Indian American techies raised USD 1,616,207 for the Kerala Chief Minister Disaster Relief Fund. Arun Nellamattom and Ajomon Poothurail from the US state of Illinois raised a whopping $1.5 million through crowd funding on social media in just five days. They transferred the donation to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayanâ€s relief fund for the Kerala floods 2018.

Both natives of Kerala residing in Chicago created a fundraiser on Facebook, Kerala Flood Relief Fund from USA, on August 15 and closed it on August 20 after receiving more than $1.3 million from thousands of Indians in America. On seeing Indian Americans†warm response to the campaign, Kerala CM’s office approached Arun Nellamattom and Ajomon Poothurail to continue the fundraising effort.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan personally invited Arun Nellamattom and Ajomon Poothurail to visit Kerala and receive gratitude in person. Both the techies took a flight to Kerala from Chicago O’Hare International Airport yesterday, August 27.

Currently, donations for the Kerala flood relief amount to nearly INR 800 crore. The state is planning to seek INR 3000 crore loan from the World Bank for rebuilding the infrastructure and rehabilitating the homeless. More than $4 billion is required to restore Kerala to what it was before the floods occurred.

Evidently, Kerala tourism suffered a huge setback in the wake of the floods. With the infrastructure in shambles at popular tourist places including Munnar and Alappuzha, the state tourism industry has incurred a whopping loss of INR 2100 crore. An estimated INR 100 crore is required to repair the tourism properties owned and managed by Kerala government. Many planned trips to Kerala for vacations in August and September have been canceled or postponed.

Also Check: Chicago to Celebrate 125 Years of Swami Vivekananda’s Historic Speech

Not only the two Indian American techies, but several nonprofit organizations including Sewa International in the United States have come forward with funds for the Kerala flood relief operations. Sewa International has raised more than $10,000 towards relief for Kerala floods 2018. This nonprofit had raised $100,000 for relief operations in Houston and other southeast US cities during Hurricane Harvey in August 2017.

The Kerala Club of Detroit, Michigan has also created a fundraiser with an initial goal of raising $50,000 for rehabilitation of the Kerala flood victims. The Kerala Club, a nonprofit striving to promote Indian culture and heritage in South East Michigan, has already managed to raise $42,605 in 13 days. Several other desi nonprofit organizations including Michigan Indo-American Forum, MI India Foundation, MI Bihar, and MI Tamil Sangam have joined the Kerala Club’s initiative.

Also Check: Inspiring Stories of Real Heroes in Kerala Foods

Houston which suffered devastating Hurricane Harvey floods is home to more than 62,000 Keralites who donated the money set aside for Onam celebrations this year to Kerala CM’s Distress Relief Fund. Notably, several US-based Malayalee organizations made the most of Onam celebrations as fundraisers for the relief work in their native land.

We at Travel Beats, an Indian American Community portal by Indian Eagle Travel, salute the real life heroes on direct and indirect relief missions for the victims of Kerala floods 2018. May the following note made by Chicago-based Keralites – Arun Nellamattom and Ajomon Poothurail – inspire other desis across the United States:

“We have made history! We did not have any barriers such as political, religious, or anything that apart human in this campaign. We all are able to reaffirm the trust in humanity. This would not have happen without each and every one of you.”

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Swami Vivekananda?s historic Chicago speech at the Parliament of the World?s Religions in 1893 is still indelibly etched in the memory of Indians worldwide. The 2-minute standing ovation from a crowd of seven thousand spectators to Swamiji?s salutation, ?Sisters and brothers of America!? does still resonate with our emotional and rational being. His speech introducing Hinduism and India at the world?s first Parliament of Religions in Chicago does stand the test of time even after 125 years.

No wonder why Indian Americans are gearing up to commemorate the 125 years of Swami Vivekananda?s Chicago address, at the World Hindu Congress 2018 in Lombard, Illinois on September 7, 8 and 9.

The best of all Illinois Indian events in September 2018, the commemoration of Swami Vivekananda?s Chicago speech at the second World Hindu Congress will be attended by more than 250 thought leaders from all over the globe, including Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from India and the Tibetan leader Dalai Lama. Over 2000 Indians from America and other parts of the world are expected to turn up in the conference.

The World Hindu Congress 2018 conference in Lombard, a superb of Chicago in Illinois will be graced by delegates from the countries with Hindu population, eminent Hindu leaders, renowned media personalities, and topnotch corporate bigwigs from India as well as the United States. Among the dignitaries is Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of RSS, who will deliver a keynote at the conference. Who will attend the event to commemorate the 125 years of Swami Vivekananda?s Chicago speech from the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, is not yet known.

Considered ?the biggest gathering of Hindu leaders to date,? the World Hindu Congress 2018 will also be attended by Swami Swaroopananda, the head of the Chinmaya Mission, and Swami Brahmavihari Das who helms international relations at BAPS. The list of dignitaries from Hindu organizations in the world does also name Swami Purnatmananda from Bharat Sevashram Sangh; and Pranav Pandya from Gayatri Parivar.

The theme of the World Hindu Congress 2018 in Lombard, Illinois is ?Sumantrite Suvikrante? meaning ?Think collectively, achieve valiantly.? The theme is aimed at millions of Indian Hindus worldwide. Headed by Swami Vigyananand, an Indian IIT graduate, the World Hindu Foundation is organizing the event.

Post commemoration of Swami Vivekananda?s Chicago speech, the attendees including Indian Americans will engage in debates and discussions on some critical issues facing Indian Hindus the world over, in a bid to find out ways of making the global Hindu community a significant, prosperous, progressive and impactful one.

The first edition of the World Hindu Congress was organized in New Delhi in 2014. The inaugural edition was attended by nearly 2000 dignitaries from more than 50 countries. The World Hindu Congress is a leading global platform for Hindus worldwide to connect with and inspire one another for their mutual benefits, growth and progress.

Travel Beats is an Indian American community portal by Indian Eagle Travel, a leading air travel booking partner of Indians in the US. Subscribe to our free newsletter for latest community news, upcoming community events in US cities, US visa & immigration updates, latest air travel news, and special offers on flights to India from USA.

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When Tampa-based Dr. Kiran Patel became the first Indian American to make the single largest donation to an American institute in the US history by pledging $200 million to Florida’s Nova Southeastern University for healthcare development in 2017, we at Indian Eagle called the Indian American community a pillar of the US economy and innovation. Recently, Indian American Rattan L Khosa, the founder and CEO of AMSYSCO, Inc. at Romeoville, a Chicago suburb in Illinois has joined the club of philanthropic alumni in the US.

79-year-old Rattan L Khosa has gifted a whopping $5 million to his alma mater, the University of Chicago in order to help talented students pursue entrepreneurship and innovation. Reportedly, the university will utilize the donation to support the aspiring entrepreneurs launching business startups, with a multi-pronged program at the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The upcoming program for the University of Chicago’s student entrepreneurs will be named after him.

Though Rattan L Khosa is not on the Forbes list of top Indian American billionaires, he has an interesting story to tell about his ‘American Dreams.’ When he came to the United States in order to pursue a research fellowship at the University of Maryland in the 1970s, he had only 3 dollars in his pocket. “The day I signed the check for the University of Chicago, I sat down still, closed my eyes, and recollected my first day in the US and how little I had,” he said in a nostalgic voice.

He will not only fund the Rattan L. Khosa Student Entrepreneurs Program at Polsky Center but also don the hat of a thought leader and mentor to guide students throughout the meandering ways of entrepreneurship with his precious experience. “Plunging into entrepreneurship at the grassroots level is like jumping off a cliff in the thick of the night while blindfolded, expecting a safety net below,” he opined. He believes that his struggles, failures, successes and achievements will be real-life lessons on entrepreneurship to them.

The Rattan Khosa Student Entrepreneurs Program at Chicago University’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation will comprise monetary award and fellowship as follows:

A major percentage of Rattan L Khosa’s $5 million donation to Chicago University will be used to award the winner of the Edward L. Kaplan New Venture Challenge at the university. At least $150,000 from the donation will be given to the winning individual or team in 2018. The award money will go up to $200,000 in the coming years. The award will be named Rattan L. Khosa New Venture Challenge First-Place Prize.

A fellowship program will be instituted for two graduating entrepreneurs at the University of Chicago, with Indian American Rattan L Khosa’s gift to the university. Named Rattan L Khosa Entrepreneurial Fellowship, this program will provide a one-year-long stipend in three quarterly payouts alongside one-on-one mentoring which Rattan Khosa himself will be helming.

With savings of $44,000, Rattan L Khosa launched AMSYSCO Inc. and operated the business from the basement of his home for a few years initially. Today, AMSYSCO is a highly profitable company at a 55,000 square foot facility in Romeoville, Illinois. It provides post-tensioning systems on commercial structures.

A registered engineer in several US states, Rattan L Khosa majored in finance and marketing with MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business. He pursued M.S. in structural engineering from the University of Maryland and graduated in science at the University of Rajasthan. he is on the board of directors for US-India Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Entrepreneurship Advisory Board for Chicago University’s Booth School of Business.

Rattan L Khosa’s generous donation to the University of Chicago will help transform Booth School of Business as ultimate destination for aspiring entrepreneurs in not only Chicago but Illinois.

This story is part of our continued effort at Indian Eagle to promote good work for noble causes by Indians in USA and the rest of the world. We not only strive to offer last minute flight deals for US to India travel but also cater inspiring stories, community news, and travel updates to Indian Americans through our free newsletters.

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Indian Independence Day Celebrations in USA are the biggest events for Indians in America. The calendar of August 2017 is full of events around the 71^st Indian Independence Day in USA. Needless to say; the Indian community in US cities will be having a gala time throughout the month of August. We at Indian Eagle handpicked some of the best 71^st Indian Independence Day celebrations in USA cities for you.

List of 71st Indian Independence Day Celebrations in USA

Festival of India in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta will soak in Indian culture and heritage at the Festival of India on August 5. First held in 1997 to commemorate the 50^th Independence Day of India, the festival became one of the biggest Indian Independence day events in Atlanta. Among the most-awaited Atlanta Indian events in August 2017, the 21^st edition of the festival will celebrate India’s 71^st Independence Day with mouthwatering dishes from various Indian cuisines and cultural programs on Indian performing arts. The event will also feature petting zoo for kids, shopping booths and seminars on different topics. Being hosted by India American Cultural Association, the event will be held at Infinite Energy Center in Duluth.

India Day Parade in New York

The Indian Independence Day celebrations in New York City are second to none. Desis in New York will commemorate India’s independence with the grand India Day Parade on August 20. One of the biggest Indian events in New York in August 2017, it was initiated in 1981 and became an annual tradition for New York Indians. The India Day Parade NYC is a great chance to witness the Indian Independence Day celebrations in New York. Organized by Federations of Indian Associations, the NYC India Day Parade 2017 will start at Madison Avenue’s 40^th Street and end at the 23^rd Street.

India Day in Boston

Boston Indians are not less enthusiastic about Indian Independence Day celebration than Indians in other US cities. The India Day by India Association of Greater Boston on August 20 is among the best Boston Indian events in August 2017 as the event marks the celebration of 71^st Indian Independence Day. One of the top Indian Independence Day events in USA, the India Day in Boston has the theme ‘Unity in Diversity’. In keeping with the theme, the programs on the schedule of the India Day 2017 in Boston will showcase the cultural diversity of India.  The Hatch Memorial Shell is the venue for the India Day in Boston.

2017 India Day in Naperville, Chicago

Indian Independence Day celebrations in Chicago include the 2017 India Day in Naperville on August 13. Hosted by Indian Community Outreach, it seems one of the largest events for Indians in Naperville in August 2017 to celebrate India’s 71^st Independence Day. To be held at Naperville’s Knock Park, the event will start with a spectacular parade followed by a live concert by Bollywood rockstar Mika Singh. Other entertainment programs include local talent show and fashion show. The Indian Independence Day events in Naperville will conclude with a breathtaking display of fireworks.

India Independence Day in Los Angeles

Are you looking for the top Indian Independence Day events in Los Angeles? Then you should definitely show up at the India Independence Day in California’s Chatsworth on August 26. Among the August 2017 events for Los Angeles Indian community, it will offer Bay Area Indians an amazing chance to take part in Indian Independence Day celebrations in California. The Desis can have tryst with Indian culture, heritage and food as the event venue will have several booths dedicated to Indian food and cultural performance. There will also be many fun programs for kids besides a health fair. The event is sponsored by Emirates Airlines and the India Association of Los Angeles at Chatsworth High School in California.

FOG India Day Parade in Fremont, CAL

Among the Indian Independence Day celebrations in Fremont, the 2017 FOG India Day Parade in Fremont on August 13 celebrates whatever is Indian to the core. Among the biggest Indian parades in USA, it features majestic processions of Grand Marshals riding more than 100 open-top cars, 50 colorful floats, cultural presentations, etc. Expected to see the participation of over 150,000 people, it will surely be on the list of events for Indians in San Francisco in August 2017. Paseo Padre Parkway in Fremont is the venue for the grand parade.

Jai Ho! Independence Bollywood Party in Seattle

Among the upcoming Indian Independence Day celebrations in Seattle, Jai Ho! Bollywood Party will make Indians in Seattle celebrate the 71^st anniversary of Indian independence by shaking their legs to some of the best Bollywood songs. The best of Seattle Indian events in August 2017, it will be a great opportunity to socialize with the fellow Desis. The party will also feature eminent DJ Ki and other special guests for entertaining the audience. Make sure to wear either orange, white and green clothes or traditional Indian attires as there is a dress code. Being hosted by DJ Prashant, the dance party will be held on August 12 at the Crocodile Club in Seattle.

India Independence Day Parade in Chicago

India Day Parade NYC might be famous as the world’s biggest Indian day parade, but Chicago’s annual India Independence Day Parade is undoubtedly one of the not-to-be-missed Indian Independence Day celebrations in Illinois. With a lineup of exciting activities for Chicago Indians, the parade is among the top Indian events in Chicago in August 2017. The Indian Independence Day Parade in Chicago will start at 11 AM on August 19 from Devon Avenue.

Parade of India in Austin, Texas

The Parade of India in Austin on August 12 is what Austin Indians are eagerly waiting for to get soaked in patriotism during the Indian Independence Day celebrations in Austin. Of the upcoming Austin Indian events in August 2017, it will be a spectacular celebration of not only Indian independence but also Indian culture. The schedule of the 2017 Parade of India in Austin is chock-a-block with a number of cultural performances alongside many fun activities such as face painting for kids. Delicious Indian food at the Parade of India in Austin will surely be a treat to the taste buds. The Texas State Capitol is the venue for the parade in Austin.

Magnificent India- Independence Day Celebrations in Stafford

Indians in Stafford are gearing up to take part in the 71^st Independence Day celebrations in Houston at the Magnificent India festival on August 20. One of the best August 2017 events for Houston Indians, it will be an ethnic extravaganza full of cultural programs. While Indian kids can participate in quiz and elocution contests, the grown-ups can catch up with their fellow Indians over appetizing Indian dishes and drinks. The Riyaaz Qawaali music concert is another highlight of the event. Being organized by the non-profit India Culture Center, it will be held at Stafford Centre.

Independence Day Mela in St. Louis, Missouri  

The list of Indian Independence Day celebrations in St. Louis includes Independence Day Mela by the India Association of St. Louis on August 13 in Missouri. The event will start with the hoisting of Indian Flag. One of the most awaited Indian community events in St. Louis in August 2017; the Independence Day Mela in St. Louis takes Missouri Indians on a ride of nostalgia through whatever is Indian essentially and what they miss in USA. Mahatma Gandhi Center in St. Louis is the venue for the event.

India Festival 2017 in Portland, Oregon

Indians in Portland are about to experience the culture, food, traditions and heritage of India like never before during the 71^st Indian Independence Day celebrations in USA. One of the amazing Portland Indian community events in August 2017, the India Festival 2017 will commemorate India’s 71^st Independence Day with dance, food and music. The cultural gala includes also children’s craft workshop, rangoli making and sari tying in its schedule of entertaining programs for Portland Indians. Hosted by India Cultural Association Portland, the India Festival 2017 in Portland will be held on August 13 at Pioneer Courthouse Square.

Indian Eagle is a leading travel partner of Indians in USA for booking their flights to India from US cities. The lowest airfare along with the best service is guaranteed. Indian Eagle’s Indian American community portal, Travel Beats publishes the latest tourist, travel, visa and immigration news.

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Young Indians are taking the world by storm with their culinary skills, which may give a tough competition to leading chefs. 7-year-old Nihal Raj from Kochi in India, who runs a popular YouTube channel ‘Kichatube,’ was the youngest chef to have appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2016. Three Indian American school goers won Michelle Obama’s White House Recipe Contest in 2016. The latest sensation in the culinary world is a 9-year-old Indian girl from Chicago.

Avani Shah, a resident of River North in Chicago, is just one step away from grabbing the crown of Fox’s MasterChef Junior and wining a cash prize of $100,000. This Indian American girl made it to the finals of Fox’s MasterChef Junior, sweeping through a stiff competition with 19 other contestants in the first mystery-box challenge of the season 5 of the Gordon Ramsay-hosted show.

A 4^th grader at the British International School of Chicago in Lincoln Park, Avani Shah did culinary wonders to win hearts with her signature Indian dish, coconut chicken curry over jasmine rice. She aspires to be a baker in life. While the other contestants tried to work on a recipe similar to one of the signature seafood recipes in Gordon Ramsay’s repertoire, Avani Shah chose to showcase a traditional Indian dish which is very popular in Kerala.

Avani is waiting for comments on her dishes from the judges of Fox’s MasterChef Junior Season 5. The judges’ feedback on her recipe of coconut chicken curry is expected to be aired in today’s episode (March 2). However, she has already moved on to the next level because of an immunity award that she received from a 13-year-old contestant from Jonesboro, Georgia.

MasterChef Junior is an American culinary competition full of challenges for youngsters in the age group of 8 to 13 years. It’s aired as a TV series every Thursday.

Travel Beats is a portal for Indian Americans by Indian Eagle, a leading travel partner of Indians in USA. Travel Beats publishes the latest news and stories related o Indian Diaspora, air travel, young Indians, philanthropy, tourism and immigration.

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The 2017 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in Bangalore concluded over positive notes on the role of youth in transforming India. An annual global convention for leading overseas Indians, it culminated in felicitation of 30 NRIs with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, India’s highest civilian honor for the Indian Diaspora, by Dr. Pranab Mukherjee, the President of India.

The 30 recipients of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards from among the 1800 NRIs in attendance from 72 countries include six Indian Americans: Dr. Sampat S. Shivangi, Dr. Bharat Haridas Barai, Nisha Desai Biswal, Dr. Mahesh Mehta, Ramesh Shah, and Hari Babu Bindal.

Among the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awardees in 2017, Dr. Sampat S. Shivangi is a renowned Indian American leader. A street in Mississippi is named after him in recognition of his contributions to the progress and welfare of the community. He was the first Indian American to be appointed for the top health post, the Chairman of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, in 2014. Dr. Sampat Shivangi was the advisor to the US Secretary of Health and Human Services in the presidential regime of George W. Bush. He is the founder and president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian-origin in Mississippi. The CEO of US Info Systems of Mississippi, he is one of the trustworthy confidantes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

One of the recipients of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, India-born and Chicago-based Dr. Bharat Barai is the director of oncology department at Methodist Hospitals in Indiana. He got a mention in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest serving member of a State Medical Licensing Board in the US. He is a community activist and philanthropist too. He treats uninsured, disadvantaged patients and works to reduce medical expenses for them. Known for his unconditional community services, personal integrity and professional excellence, Dr. Bharat Barai is also in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s coterie of close associates.

Another Indian American awardee of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, Dr. Mahesh Mehta is the founder of Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America. He also founded the Hindu Heritage Foundation of America, Friends of India Society International, India Quality Group and several other organizations. He has many widely published articles on socio-cultural, socio-economic and socio-political aspects to his fame. ‘Hindu Philosophy in Action’ is the latest from Dr. Mahesh Mehta’s repertoire of books and journals. Dr. Mehta is a cofounder and director of Hindu University of America in Orlando, Florida.

Nisha Desai Biswal is an Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs among the six Indian American recipients of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards 2017. She helms the United States’ foreign policies and external affairs in India, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh and other countries in central Asia. Under her distinguished leadership, the US Department of State ensures and enhances human security and national security in south and central Asian nations. Based in Washington DC, Nisha Desai Biswal leads the US’ bilateral consultations with Central and South Asia to deepen ties with those Asian nations.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is a unique platform for Indian Diaspora to engage with Indian government, explore investment opportunities in India, seek chances of contribution to the economy of India, and discuss the issues of concern with Indians abroad. The power of Indian youth was the theme of the 2017 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bengaluru City.

The 2017 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas came to an end with Nisha Desai Biswal’s acceptance speech on behalf of all the awardees.

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If you are not traveling to India this holiday season, you must know where to spend New Year’s Eve 2016 in USA. Needless to say, America is known for wild celebrations on the eve of New Year. After all, December 31 is the most awaited time to look back into what has gone past and make new resolutions for the New Year. Though most of the US cities are party capitals offering live music, street dance, dazzling fireworks and a lot more, we at Travel Beats handpick some of the best places to celebrate the eve of New Year 2017 and watch fireworks in USA for you.

San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the best places in USA for firework celebration on the eve of New Year 2017. Spectacular fireworks between the Ferry Building and the San Francisco Bay Bridge fill the night sky with lots of gleams and glitters. The New Year’s Eve in San Francisco culminates in partying which keeps the city sleepless till wee hours.

Miami

Miami offers myriad places to spend New Year’s Eve 2016 and watch firework display. Apart from rooftop restaurants and galleries, Nikki Beach and Miami City Beach are the best spots to see the night sky light up on the eve of New Year 2017 in Miami. You can also join a cruise party to celebrate the New Year’s Eve in Miami. Needless to say, Miami is known for its vibrant nightlife.

New York

No need to wonder where to spend New Year’s Eve and watch firework display in America if you are in New York. The iconic Times Square in New York City is one of the best places for firework celebration on the eve of New Year 2017 in the US. The Times Square throbs as a partying zone with thousands of revelers ringing in the New Year. Several rooftop bars, lounges and restaurants, including Monarch Rooftop Lounge, in and around the Times Square offer mind-blowing views of fireworks at the Hudson River and on top of the Empire State Building.

Los Angeles

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Los Angeles, the City of Hollywood, is undeniably where to spend New Year’s Eve in USA by clubbing, dancing, singing, lounging and dining in downtown. Grand Park is one of the few places to be for free events on the eve of New Year in Los Angeles. The Cleopatra’s Ball at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood is one of the most popular events to attend in the evening of December 31, 2016. The New Year’s Ball at the Edison in downtown Los Angeles is full of amazing performances.

Orlando

Orlando is also on the list of best places in USA for firework celebration on New Year’s Eve 2016. Being one of the entertainment capitals in America, Orlando knows how to ring in the New Year. The Magic Kingdom of Walt Disney in Orlando is one of the few most popular places for revelry on the eve of New Year 2017. Walt Disney World is the venue for one of the biggest New Year eve celebration parties in USA. The Church Street Entertainment District in Downtown Orlando is another thriving venue for outdoor entertainment and celebration.

Chicago

Chicago has been voted as one of the best places in USA for firework display on New Year’s Eve for years. The shores of Lake Michigan glitter with dazzling fireworks and throbs with cries of joy on New Year’s Eve in Chicago. The venues of music and dance at Chicago House rock with electrifying numbers played by international DJs, live Jazz shows and live blues plays from early evening till midnight of December 31. You can catch glimpses of fireworks at Navy Pier while enjoying cruise dining with your dear ones on Lake Michigan.

Atlanta

Atlanta has been ringing the bell of New Year with the Peach Drop on the New Year eve since 1989. What started as a trend of New Year eve celebration in Atlanta has become a tradition. Thousands throng at Underground Atlanta to catch views of the 800-pound peach fall from a 138-foot tower of lights. You can spend the New Year’s Eve 2016 by laughing out loud at Atlanta Comedy Theater in Norcross. Celebrity comedians will bring the house down to fill you with enthusiasm for a new year.

New Orleans

A blend of food, music, fun and firework makes New Orleans one of the best places to spend New Year’s Eve in USA. Revelers rock the December 31 evening from Bourbon Street to Jackson Square with live music and street dance. No wonder where to spend New Year’s Eve 2016 in USA if not in New Orleans where sparkling fireworks light up the sky over the Mississippi River for the New Year celebration.

Portland 

Among the best places for firework celebration on the eve of New Year 2017 in USA, Portland is dotted with a great number of nightlife venues for fun and entertainment. The city hosts some epic balls on New Year’s Eve.  The Portland Champagne Ball is one of the most popular celebration parties in the evening of December 31 in Portland. Portland offers whatever you are looking for a high time on New Year’s eve in the Pearl District.

Travel Beats is a portal for Indian Americans by IndianEagle, a leading travel partner of Indians in USA. Travel Beats publishes the latest news and stories from USA and India with regard to Indian Diaspora, air travel, young Indians, philanthropy and tourism.

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The Indian American community will be having a gala time in August and September as the calendar of Indian events in USA is full of cultural programs for them. We have listed the best of upcoming events in California, Seattle, New Jersey, Houston, Dallas, Cleveland and Nashville for Indians in USA. It will make your search for Indian events in August and September easier.

Jai Ho! Independence Dance Party in Seattle, Washington

The 6^th annual Independence dance party on August 6 is one of the most awaited Indian events in Seattle. This event triggers the festive season for Indians in Seattle. Celebrate the 70^th Indian Independence Day by dancing all night to the best Bollywood beats. Do get dressed in orange or white or green as there is a dress code.

• Date: August 6
• Venue: NECTAR LOUNGE,412 North, 36th St, Seattle, WA
• Organizer’s Phone: 503-810-2510

20^th Festival of India in Duluth, Georgia

Initiated in 1997 to celebrate the 50^th Independence Day of India, the Festival of India is one of the popular Indian events in Georgia. Now Indians in Georgia will celebrate the 20^th edition of the event as the 70^th Indian Independence Day on August 6 in Duluth.

• Date: August 6
• Venue: Infinite Energy Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097
• Organizer’s Phone: 404-915-0497

Kailash Kher’s Live Concert in Cleveland, Ohio

One of the most loved Indian singers, Kailash Kher will be performing live in Cleveland on August 13. The musical event is expected to be one of the most exciting Indian events in Ohio as Kailash Kher will be performing for the Indian community in Cleveland for the first time ever.

• Date: August 13
• Venue: Playhouse Square, 1501 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115

70^th Independence Day Celebration in Nashville, Tennessee

Indians in Nashville don’t lag behind when it comes to celebrating the Independence Day of India in USA. Said to be the biggest of all upcoming Indian events in Tennessee, the 70^th Independence Day will be celebrated on August 16 in Nashville. Nashville’s Indian community is gearing up with cultural performances.

• Date: August 21
• Venue: Vanderbilt University, Langford Auditorium, Garland Ave, Nashville, TN 37212
• Organizer’s Phone: 615-430-1762

Shreya Ghoshal Live Concert in Houston, Texas

Among the Houston events in September, Shreya Ghoshal’s live concert has already sent waves of excitement across the Indian community in Texas. Hold on to your breath until Shreya Ghoshal spellbinds you with her melodious voice on September 2.

• Date: September 2
• Venue: Arena Theatre, 7326 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77074
• Organizer’s Phone: 713-545-4115

Sonu Nigam & Atif Aslam Live Concert in Houston, Texas

A musical extravaganza by such popular singers as Sonu Nigam and Atif Aslam awaits the Indian community in Houston this September. They will entertain Indians in Houston with electrifying numbers from Bollywood films on September 23.

• Date: September 23
• Venue: NRG Arena, 1 NRG Parkway, Houston, TX 77054

Radio Zindagi Ganesh Utsav in Milpitas, California

Indians in Milpitas in California celebrate Ganesh Utsav like Ganesh Puja in Mumbai, Hyderabad and other Indian cities. For the popularity of its maiden edition in 2015, Radio Zindgi Ganesh Utsav in Milpitas has become one of the best Indian events in USA. The Milpitas Ganesh Utsav 2016 is a 4-day cultural extravaganza starting on September 8. A 15-feet tall Ganesh statue will be worshipped this year.

• Dates: September 8, 9, 10, 11
• Venue: Milpitas Sports Center, 1325 E Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas, CA 95035
• Organizer’s Phone: 510-387-5381

Ilayaraja Telugu Live Music Concert in San Jose, California

Good news for Telugu music lovers in San Jose Indian community! Music maestro Ilayaraja will take you on a musical ride with his popular songs on September 10. Acclaimed singers Hariharan and Chitra will sing alongside Ilayaraja at this Telugu Live Music Concern among the upcoming events in San Jose.

• Date: September 10
• Venue: San Jose Event Center, 290 South 7th Street, San Jose, CA 95192
• Organizer’s Phone: 408-785-2282

Gulzar in New Jersey

Indians in New Jersey are eagerly waiting to catch up with eminent Indian celeb Gulzar in Rahway on September 17. Gulzar will sing some of the best songs from his collection in a live concert among the upcoming Indian events in New Jersey.

• Date: September 17
• Venue: Union County Arts Center, 1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ 07095
• Organizer’s Phone: 973-652-6607

Onam Celebrations in Pleasanton, California

The Indian community in California is all set to celebrate Kerala’s biggest festival Onam on September 18 in Pleasanton. This upcoming festivity is an opportunity for California Indians to get together. With a grand Onam feast and traditional revelries like Pookkalam, Maveli along with Thiruvathira dance, this upcoming India event in California is second to none.

• Date: September 18
• Venue: Senior Center, Pleasanton, 5353 Sunol Boulevard, Pleasanton, CA 94566
• Organizer’s Phone: 309-310-1539

Dream Team USA Concert Tour 2016

Bollywood stars including Varun Dhawan, Katrina Kaif, Alia Bhatt, Sidharth Malhotra and Karan Johar are all set to enthrall Indians in USA with the ‘Dream Team’ musical concert. One of the most awaited Indian events in USA, the six-city musical tour kicks off on August 12 in Houston and will travel to San Jose on August 13, Atlanta on August 14, Chicago on August 19, Los Angeles on August 20 and New Jersey on August 21.

• Dates: August 12, August 13, August 14, August 19, August 20, August 21
• Venues: Houston, San Jose, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Jersey

Travel Beats by IndianEagle, a leading travel organization, is an Indian American community portal sharing latest news, stories and events for Indians in USA. Subscribe to Travel Beats’ free newsletter for the latest and interesting updates.

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The White House announced 30 finalists including two Indian Americans for the 2016-2017 White House Fellowship. Dr. Tina Shah from Chicago and Anjali Tripathi from Woodland Hills are the Indian Americans among the potential White House Fellows. The 30 finalists from different walks of life across the United States were appraised on different grounds from June 9 till June 12 in Washington DC.

Each of the White House Fellowship finalists is an accomplished professional with demonstrated ability in his or her niche. The potential White House Fellows should prove to be committed in service to the community and equipped with leadership skills, according to the White House Spokesperson. They were chosen through a highly competitive selection process comprising a comprehensive written test and interviews with civic leaders.

Dr. Tina Shah is a pulmonary specialist at the University of Chicago in the state of Illinois. A science graduate of Penn State University, she is a Doctor of Medicine from Thomas Jefferson University. Tina Shah is a though leader at the Center for Health Care Innovation in Greater Chicago Area. The Center for Health Care Innovation is a non-profit organization for life science researchers. She is also associated with the American Medical Association for Resident and Fellows, which consists of 40,000 US physicians. Additionally, she dons several hats at the same time. Dr. Shah is a member on the board of trustees and a vice speaker for Chicago Medical Society. She also serves as a member of Clinical Leader’s Editorial Board.

An Indian American among the White House Fellowship finalists for 2016-2017, Anjali Tripathi is a PHD student of astrophysics in the Astronomy Department, Harvard University. She is doing research on how planets form and evolve. She has an M. Phil degree in astronomy from the University of Cambridge and a degree in physics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Anjali was an active member of the Society of Physics Students and the Solar Electric Vehicle Team during her years at MIT.

The White House Fellowship program was initiated by the then President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. The program requires the winners to work with cabinet secretaries and participate in public affairs of national or international importance for a year in Washington DC. It gives them a high-level work experience for the good of the citizens. President Johnson intended the White House fellows to work for greater public interests in exchange for this opportunity.

The White House Fellowship program is full of challenges. The most challenging is the fellows’ participation in round-table discussions with eminent leaders from both public and private sectors, including presidents, prime ministers and other high-profile government officials across the globe.

There were three Indian Americans among the White House Fellowship finalists in 2015 too. They were Payal Patel from Harvard Medical School, Anil Yallapragada from South Carolina Stroke Institute, and Luxme Hariharan from Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles. CNN’s chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta, the second most popular doctor in the US, is in the group of over 700 White House Fellowship alumni.

Being shortlisted for the most prestigious White House Fellowship is Dr. Tina Shah and Anjali Tripathi’s achievement, which is a matter of pride for the Indian community that IndianEagle represents and has a strong connect with.

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