The 2026 US midterm election results include major wins for Indian American democrats: Pia Dandiya, Suhas Subramanyam, Aruna Miller, and Ro Khanna. It testifies to the growing presence of Indian American candidates in the US corridor of power and politics. Their collective victory, a significant milestone for Indian immigrants, comes at a crucial moment in the US politics that has been hinging upon “immigration” in the Trump regime.

2026 US Midterm Election Winners include Indian American Democrats

• Suhas Subramanyam, Virginia: Indian American Suhas Subramanyam won re-election from Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, defeating the Republican challenger, Dave Beckwith.
• Aruna Miller, Maryland: Indian American Aruna Miller of Hyderabad origin won another term as Maryland’s lieutenant governor alongside Democratic Governor Wes Moore.
• Ro Khanna: Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna from California’s 17^th congressional district won another term in the House of Representative, with a whopping 72% of the vote.
• Pia Dandiya, Florida: A new face in US politics, Indian American Pia Dandiya won the election to represent Florida’s 22^nd Congressional District in the House of Representatives. She is a former White House fellow.
• Pooja Sethi, Texas: Democrat Pooja Sethi won the election to the Texas House of Representatives by defeating Republican Jennifer Mushtaler. She made history as the first Indian American woman elected to the Texas Legislature.
• Jyot Singh, Georgia: Among the Indian-origin winners of the US Midterm Elections 2026, Jyot Singh made history as the first Sikh American by securing a seat in the Georgia General Assembly. Singh beat Republican Yassin Moghazy in House District 97, which covers parts of Duluth, Peachtree Corners and Norcross, as well as Berkeley Lake in Gwinnett County.
• Rohit Malhotra, Georgia: Indian-origin Democrat Rohit Malhotra won a special election for Fulton County Commission’s District 4 seat in Georgia. Fulton County Commission is the governing body of Fulton County which covers most of Atlanta in the US stage of Georgia. He is the founder of the Center for Civic Innovation.

Who is Pia Dandiya? A new Indian-origin face in US politics 

40-year-old Democrat Pia Dandiya is an Indian-origin American politician, educator, and former technology executive. She won the 2026 midterm election to the US House of Representatives by defeating Republican Casey Askar in Florida’s 22^nd Congressional District. Around 52% of the vote ensured her win in the race, while her opponent Casey Askar secured 48% of the vote, according to the Associate Press and other media reports. 

Born to an immigrant couple from India, Pia Dandiya was raised in Palm Beach County, Florida where Dr Kiran Patel is a billionaire, social entrepreneur, and great philanthropist. She has had an illustrious career spanning education, public policy, government service, and technology before she made a mark in politics. Previously, she worked on public-sector initiatives through the White House and Apple.

Pia Dandiya’s journey from education to politics

Indian American Pia Dandiya is a self-made politician. Her professional background and journey distinguish her from many candidates entering the congressional race. She started her career in education as a teacher and later progressed as the founding principal of a high school in New York. She was only 28, then. Her campaign biography highlights that she founded the high school to open the door to higher education and career opportunities for students from low-income families.

Pia Dandiya’s White House Fellowship was a stepping stone to her political career. She served as a White House Fellow, working with the Domestic Policy Council and the US Department of Education. The White House Fellowship is a prestigious program for selected individuals to work closely with senior government officials and gain experience in federal policymaking. This exposed her to the workings of the federal government and public policy.

Later, she worked at Apple as a representative in Apple Inc’s public-sector initiatives to modernize education and government services. Her various experiences, from education to community development, government, and public policies, shaped her political identity and became central to her congressional campaign. Evidently, her campaign focused on education, affordability, economic opportunity, and community life development in South Florida.

US Midterm Elections 2026: Key highlights 

• Democrats take control of both chambers of Congress

Democrats won control of the House and Senate, ending the Republican Party’s unified control of Congress. The outcome is expected to strengthen congressional oversight of the Trump administration and complicate the passage of Republican-backed legislation.

• All 435 House seats were contested

The US House of Representatives has 435 voting members; each elected for a two-year term. All 435 seats were up for election in the 2026 midterms. Democrats needed to gain seats to overcome the Republican majority that existed before election day.

• 35 Senate seats were up for election

The US Senate has 100 members who serve six-year terms. 35 Senate seats were contested in the midterm 2026 elections, including regular elections and special contests. Democratic victories in several traditionally Republican states helped the party gain control of the chamber.

• Governor elections held across 36 States

Governor elections were important because state governors influence policies related to education, healthcare, infrastructure, public safety, and economic development. The Democratic gains in several gubernatorial contests further strengthened the party’s position following the midterms.

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The post Pia Dandiya & Other Indian American Democrats Win 2026 US Midterm Elections first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Pia Dandiya & Other Indian American Democrats Win 2026 US Midterm Elections appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Colorful diyas, dazzling lights, traditional decoration, familiar aroma of Indian sweets, and some fireworks make even a strange place feel like home on Diwali. Lakhs of Indians and Asian Hindus celebrate Deepavali in their adopted home – America – from Times Square to BAPS Swaminarayan temples across the country. When is Diwali in USA 2026? What is the shubh Diwali puja muhurat in your city? Where can you celebrate Diwali festival in the US? Here’s your complete guide to Diwali 2026 celebrations in USA.

When is Diwali 2026 in the USA? 

Indians and Asian Hindus will celebrate Diwali on November 8, 2026 across the United States. It coincides with the date of Diwali celebration in India this year, according to the Hindu calendar. Like in India, Diwali festival spans four days in the USA, including Lakshmi Puja on Amavasya, or the new moon day:

• Dhanteras: November 6
• Chhoti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi): November 7
• Badi Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): November 8
• Annakut and Govardhan Puja: November 9

Diwali 2026 USA: Lakshmi Puja Muhurat in major US cities 

Worshiping Devi Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, takes center stage during Deepavali festival. Hindus and Jains perform Lakshmi Puja during Pradosh Kaal in the evening on badi Diwali. Pradosh Kaal is a sacred twilight period around sunset; it spans from about 1.5 hours before to 1 hour after sunset. This time window in the evening is considered highly auspicious for sacred rituals, irrespective of geographies. City-wise Diwali 2026 puja muhurat in the USA depends on your location, sunset timing, and the Panchang calculation.

• Eastern Time (ET): Roughly 5:30 PM – 7:45 PM
• Central Time (CT): Roughly 5:30 PM – 7:50 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): Roughly 5:30 PM – 7:55 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): Roughly 5:15 PM – 7:30 PM

Why is Deepavali 2026 special for Indians in USA?

“In 2026, Deepavali or Lakshmi Puja is very special for Indian families in USA because November 8 is Sunday, a non-working day for schools, businesses, and offices. Since Diwali is not among the federal holidays, Indians and Hindu immigrants don’t get a holiday on working days unless they take a day off. Diwali 2026 falling on a Sunday does not require them to take a day off for the most-awaited festival of the year,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor of Travel Beats, the Indian Eagle blog for diaspora stories and US-India travel news.

Where to celebrate Diwali 2026 in America?

Some Indians fly to India and celebrate Diwali with their parents at home by booking the best Indian Eagle flight deals in advance. If you are not traveling home around Diwali, you can visit Hindu temples and community centers in your US city for the celebration. Deepavali festival is observed at all Hindu temples across America, including Dallas Radha Krishna Temple, NY Queens Ganesh Temple, Atlanta’s Shiva Durga Temple, Pittsburgh Venkateswara Temple, Southern California’s Malibu Hindu Temple.

All BAPS Centers and Temples in the US, including the world’s largest Akshardham Temple in New Jersey, celebrate Diwali adhering to the rituals and customs. Their Annakut celebration offering chhappan bhog (56 dishes) to Lord Krishna (worshiped as Govardhan) is a grand, spectacular event.

Are Diwali events free in the USA? 

Not all Diwali events in the United States are free. Some have ticketed entry with/without advance registration. Some public events like Times Square Diwali 2026 in NYC have free admission. Diwali celebrations by temples across the US are open to all for free, but you may have to buy prasadam meals at subsidized rates per plate or per person. Some public celebrations, like FOG Diwali Mela and Dublin Diwali Mela in California, and Flushing Townhall Diwali in New York have paid tickets, from $5 to $50 per person. While temple Diwali celebrations are simple and traditional, public Diwali events are full of activities, like diya painting, rangoli competition, handcraft workshop, etc.

Tips for Your Diwali 2026 Celebration in America: 

• Confirm the local muhurat: Use a city-specific Panchang or your nearest temple’s Diwali 2026 schedule rather than converting the Indian timing for Lakshmi Puja.
• Check event dates carefully: A Diwali mela held in October or later in November may be a community celebration rather than the actual festival day.
• Book public events early: Popular cultural festivals, musical performances, and ticketed dinners may sell out.
• Plan for local weather: November can be chilly in New York, Chicago, and other northern cities. Outdoor events may require warm clothing.
• Follow local fireworks rules: Apartment regulations, local ordinances, and event policies may restrict open fireworks. Use designated locations and approved displays.
• Order festive food in advance: Indian sweet shops and restaurants can be busy during Diwali week.
• Make the celebration inclusive: Rangoli, diya painting, storytelling, Indian music, and festive meals are accessible ways to share Diwali with children, friends, and neighbors of different backgrounds

The post Diwali 2026 USA Lakshmi Puja Timings; Why Diwali is Special for Indians in USA This Year first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Diwali 2026 USA Lakshmi Puja Timings; Why Diwali is Special for Indians in USA This Year appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Indians live by their cultures, customs, and rituals, regardless of geographies and time zones. Karwa Chauth is not an exception to married Hindu women of Indian origin worldwide. The vrat and rituals, like fasting, evening puja, moon sighting…hardly vary by location, except date and muhurat. Karwa Chauth 2026 falls on October 28 for Indians in USA – a day earlier than in India. Since women keep a day-long fast for their husbands’ good health, longevity, and prosperity, knowing the exact date and puja timing for Karwa Chauth Vrat 2026 in USA is important.

When is Karwa Chauth 2026 in USA? Here’s Exact Date 

In the United States, Karwa Chauth 2026 falls on October 28, Wednesday, for Indians and Asian Hindus. Karwa Chauth fasting is observed on Kartik Krishna Paksha Chaturthi, the fourth day of the waning lunar phase in the Hindu calendar. India will celebrate Karwa Chauth on October 29 in 2026. However, October 28 is the relevant date for women observing the vrat in the US for their husbands’ longevity and family wellbeing. They should check the local timings for the evening puja and moon-sighting rituals in the US city and the time zone they live in.

Karwa Chauth 2026 Puja Muhurat in USA 

The evening puja is a significant ritual on the day of Karwa Chauth festival, irrespective of geographies and time zones. Indian Hindu women gather in groups, recite the Karwa Chauth Vrat Katha, offer prayers, and prepare for the moon-sighting ritual. The evening puja muhurat varies across the USA depending on the local sunset time and other Panchang calculations.

Drik Panchang 2026 recommends the following city-wise Karva Chauth puja timings on October 28, 2026 for Indian women in America:

• New York City: 5:57–7:18 PM
• Boston, MA: 5:43–7:04 PM
• Detroit, MI: 6:31–7:52 PM
• Denver, CO: 6:03–7:23 PM
• Atlanta, GA: 6:49–8:07 PM
• Chicago, IL: 5:50–7:11 PM
• Nashville, TN: 5:55–7:14 PM
• Baltimore, MD: 6:10–7:30 PM
• Dallas, Texas: 6:40–7:58 PM
• San Jose, CAL: 6:14–7:33 PM
• San Francisco, CAL: 6:14–7:33 PM
• Los Angeles: 6:04–7:22 PM
• Indianapolis: 6:47–8:08 PM
• Phoenix, AZ: 5:40–6:58 PM
• Orlando, Florida: 6:43–8:01 PM
• Cincinnati, OH: 6:42–8:02 PM
• Austin, TX: 6:47–8:04 PM
• Houston, TX: 6:38–7:55 PM
• Seattle, WA: 5:58–7:21 PM

Karva Chauth 2026 USA Moonrise Timings in Major Cities 

It is said that Karwa Chauth Vrat remains incomplete until the fasting women see the moon. Moon sighting is an important ritual, because it is a tradition for women to break their fast only after seeing the moon. Indicative moonrise timings on 28 October 2026 are listed below for Indians in major US cities:

• New York City: 7:35 PM
• Baltimore MD: 7:52 PM
• Nashville TN: 7:45 PM
• Dallas TX: 8:38 PM
• Houston: 8:41 PM
• San Jose: 8:07 PM
• San Francisco: 8:08 PM
• Los Angeles: 8:04 PM
• Boston: 7:16 PM
• Chicago IL: 7:28 PM
• Atlanta GA: Around 8:43 PM EDT
• Washington DC: Around 7:55 PM EDT
• Seattle WA: Around 7:24 PM PDT

Traveling from USA to India during Karwa Chauth? This might help you

If your international travel date coincides with Karwa Chauth 2026, you should prepare for it accordingly. For women taking international flights from USA to India around this festival, the biggest consideration is whether they would land in India before the local moonrise timing on October 29. If you can’t help but travel around Karwa Chauth this month and flight tickets are yet to be booked, contact Indian Eagle (1800-615-3969) not just for best phone-only flight deals but also a suitable itinerary with short travel time.

“If your travel is already booked, check the itinerary for the layover airport and timing, as well as the arrival time at your destination in India. If your flight from USA takes off early in the morning on October 28, you are very likely to reach India in the early evening the next day, October 29. You can start the Karwa Chauth fast in the US and break it with local moon sighting in India,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor of Travel Beats.

Pack a small Karwa Chauth puja kit in your carry-on bag

Carrying a Karwa Chauth puja kit in your cabin bag is recommended during international travel so that checked baggage retrieval delays at the entry or destination airport do not disrupt or prolong your Karwa Chauth Vrat 2026 unnecessarily. Avoid packing ghee, oil, matchbox, liquid sweet dish, and/or other restricted items. Depending on your culture and customs, a puja kit may include:

• A lightweight puja thali
• A small diya or battery-operated alternative
• A small box of Kumkum (sindoor)
• A Vrat katha book or a digital copy on your phone
• A small sieve for moon sighting and other customer items
• A sweet item to eat after breaking the fast

FAQs about Karwa Chauth USA 2026 

Is Karwa Chauth on October 28 or October 29 in 2026? 

October 28 is the date for Karwa Chauth festival in the US, while it is October 29 in India.   

When will the Karwa Chauth moon rise in the USA? 

Just like from north to south in India, the Karwa Chauth moon rise timing varies across the United States on October 28, 2026. Check a city-specific Panchang before breaking the fast.

The post Karwa Chauth 2026 in USA: Date, Puja Timing, Moon Sightings in Major US Cities first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Karwa Chauth 2026 in USA: Date, Puja Timing, Moon Sightings in Major US Cities appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Bathukamma celebrations in USA are riding the waves of official recognition by several US cities and states. Integral to the cultural identity of Telugu Indians, Bathukamma coincides with the blooming of gardens across the US every fall. Telugu families across America recreate the festive spirit of Telangana, with women singing and dancing around flower stacks that rise like temple towers.

These US cities and states have recognized Bathukamma

Bathukamma has grown from a Telugu festival to one of the most vibrant Indian cultural celebrations in America. Meaning “Mother Goddess Come Alive”, it honors Goddess Parvati and symbolizes the deep connection between earth, water, and humanity. Several US states and cities including North Carolina, Texas, Georgia, California, New York, Detroit, Chicago, DMV region, and Seattle have recognized Bathukamma as ‘Festival of Life’.

Bathukamma celebrations light up wherever Telugu immigrants live in their adopted home – the US. Travel Beats, a one-stop portal for Indian Diaspora stories and US-India travel news, recommends some of the best Bathukamma 2026 celebrations in USA.

TTA Bathukamma Celebrations USA in 2026

Telangana American Telugu Association (TTA) has announced its signature Nationwide Bathukamma and Dasara Celebrations 2026, making it one of the biggest Telugu festivals across the United States. This grand series of events will bring together the Telugu diaspora from coast to coast, with multiple chapters celebrating the floral festival on the same weekends. From traditional Bathukamma arrangements to folk music and cultural activities, the festivities promise to recreate the vibrant spirit of Telangana in America. Venues and detailed cultural lineups are yet to be announced. Event Schedule across the USA:

• Charlotte – October 17
• Indianapolis – October 11
• New Jersey – October 11
• Dallas – October 17
• Tampa – October 10
• Portland – September 21
• Seattle – October 17
• Arizona – October 10
• New York – October 11
• Los Angeles – October 17
• Atlanta – October 24
• Philadelphia – October 24
• Miami: October 10
• Alabama: October 17

CTA Bathukamma Celebrations, Charlotte, NC

Charlotte Telangana Association will celebrate its 17th annual Bathukamma & Dasara Sambaralu in Monroe, continuing a tradition that has united the community since 2009. Recognized as the biggest Bathukamma event in the Carolinas, it will showcase stunning flower arrangements, cultural performances, dandiya and kolatam dances, along with raffle prizes for the most creative Bathukamma designs.

• Date: October 17, 2026
• Venue: TBA
• Contact: 704-626-1308, contact@charlottetelangana.org
• Website: www.charlottetelangana.org

TPAD Bathukamma Dasara Sambaralu, Dallas

Telangana People’s Association of Dallas will host a grand Bathukamma & Dasara Sambaralu 2026 in Frisco, making it one of the most awaited and biggest Telugu festivals in North Texas. The highlight of the celebrations is a special appearance by Jathi Ratnam Naveen Polishetty, bringing his signature energy and entertainment to the festivities. Alongside the floral rituals, families can look forward to high-energy beats by Infusion Band, keeping the crowd dancing throughout the evening.

• Date: Saturday, October 17, 2025
• Venue: Comerica Center, 2601 Avenue of the Stars, Frisco, TX 75024
• Contact: 408 340 0538 | contactus@tpadus.ord
• Website: tpadus.org

Bathukamma 2026 events in Austin, Texas

If you are in Austin, you can mark October 17 on the calendar for Bathukamma celebrations across Austin, TX. Telangana Development Forum (TDF) is organizing a grand celebration of the floral festival at Rio Ranch Cricket Field, Liberty Hall. The 5-9pm event will see a big Telugu community gathering enjoying folk songs and dance in circles around beautifully decorated flower stacks.

If you want to celebrate Bathukamma festival in temple-like atmosphere, visit Austin Hindu Temple and Community Center. This and a few other temples in Austin have planned Bathukamma Panduga celebrations on October 17, 2026. They may have different timings. Visit Austinhindutemple.org or contact 512-927-0000 for more information.

TAGC Chicago Bathukamma 2026, Illinois

The Telugu Association of Greater Chicago (TAGC) will celebrate Bathukamma 2026 at Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple in Aurora, bringing the floral festival of Telangana to Illinois. The event will feature Bathukamma rituals, folk songs, dances, cultural programs, kids’ activities, and food stalls with Telangana flavors. With enthusiastic participation from Chicago’s Telugu community, it has grown into one of the most awaited Bathukamma events in USA. 

• Date: October 18, 2026
• Venue: Sri Venkateswara Swami Balaji Temple, 1145 Sullivan Rd Aurora, IL 60506
• Contact: batukamma@tagc.org | 903 517 9464
• Website: www.tagc.org

DATA Bathukamma Celebrations, Dallas, TX

Dallas Area Telangana Association (DATA) will host one of the most grand Bathukamma & Dasara celebrations of 2026 in North Texas. What stands out: a free-entry splash of culture with live concerts, exciting food stalls, and open-air vibrance, perfect for families. It’s a cherished festival tradition under the Dallas sky that goes late into the evening. This year marks DATA’s 13th Annual Bathukamma & Dasara celebration.

• Date: October 17, 2026
• Venue: Frisco Flyers Volleyball Club, 6300 Flyers Way, Frisco, TX
• Contact: 214-534-6465 | data.telangana@gmail.com
• Website: www.dataus.org

Houston Bathukamma & Dasara 2026 – TAGH, Texas

Telangana Association of Greater Houston (TAGH) will host a vibrant Bathukamma & Dasara Festival in Houston, bringing traditional Telangana culture to the heart of Texas. The evening will feature joyous Bathukamma celebrations accompanied by folk music, dance, and cultural performances, creating a festive atmosphere for the Telugu community. This is a ticketed event, with tickets priced at $5 per person, while children under 10 years can attend for free.

• Date: October 17, 2026
• Venue: The KBC Houston, 6011 W. Orem Dr., Houston, TX 77085
• Contact: info@tagh.org | +1 832-224-6215
• Website: https://www.tagh.org 

WATA Bathukamma Sambaralu 2026, Seattle WA

Washington Telangana Association (WATA) will host Bathukamma Sambaralu 2026 at North Creek High School in Bothell. Known for its lively community participation, this festival in Seattle brings together families who arrive with their own colorful Bathukammas, filling the venue with music, dance, and folk traditions. After the unforgettable success of 2025, this year promises to be even bigger and more spectacular, with breathtaking floral arrangements, soulful folk songs, lively cultural performances, and the joyous togetherness that makes Bathukamma so special.

• Date: October 17, 2026
• Venue: North Creek High School, 18623 29th Ave SE, Bothell, WA 98012
• Contact: info@wataweb.org
• Website: www.wataweb.org

Detroit/Farmington Hills Bathukamma Sambaralu 2026

Detroit’s Telugu Community is gearing up for one of Michigan’s most colorful Indian festivals. The Bathukamma and Dasara Sambaralu 2026 will be held on October 17 in Novi, and it will feature Jammi Pooja, Bathukamma Ata with traditional songs and dances, cultural performances, and a Telangana-style feast. For Telugu-Americans in Michigan, this annual festival has become a signature event that not only honors their cultural traditions but also strengthens community bonds.

• Date: October 17, 2026
• Venue: Vibe Credit Union Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48374
• Contact:  www.dtcusa.org

New Jersey’s Bathukamma Celebrations 2026

In New Jersey, Mana American Telugu Association (MATA) will celebrate Bathukamma 2026 at Royal Albert’s Palace in Fords. Unlike many large-scale Telugu events, this celebration is rooted in a close-knit, family-first atmosphere where the focus is on tradition, floral rituals, and community bonding. Scheduled for October 17, 2026, it brings together Telugu-Americans of the tri-state area, who cherish experiencing Telangana’s culture within their own community. The celebration will feature Durga Pooja, NJ’s biggest Bathukamma, prizes for the top five best Bathukammas, Best Dressed Ladies, Bomma Koluvu, and cultural programs.

• Date: October 17, 2026
• Venue: Royal Albert’s Palace, 1050 King Georges Post Rd, Fords, NJ 08863
• Contact: info@mata-us.org | +1 888 762-8287
• Website: www.mata-us.ord

GTA Bathukamma Celebrations 2026

Raleigh’s Global Telangana Association (GTA) is bringing a touch of Telangana’s vibrant heart to the Research Triangle. The GTA Bathukamma Celebrations 2026 in Holly Springs blends tradition with festive activities. This is a paid-entry event, and what makes it special is the number of prizes for the best Bathukamma designs, including a diamond mangalsutra, gold chains, gold earrings, and silver coins. Attendees can look forward to village-style rituals, DJ music, raffles, food stalls, business booths, and a lively photo booth, making it one of the grandest Bathukamma events in USA this year.

• Date: October 18, 2026
• Venue: Holly Ridge Elementary School, 900 Holly Springs Rd, Holly Springs, NC 27540
• Contact: 508 496 2947 | Globaltelangana.org | Instagram/@gtaraleigh

The post Bathukamma 2026 Celebrations across USA by Telugu Associations in America first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Bathukamma 2026 Celebrations across USA by Telugu Associations in America appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Durga Puja is one of the grandest and most-awaited Indian festivals. It is a most spectacular celebration in the Indian state of Bengal. However, the festival is celebrated with equal enthusiasm wherever Bengalis are in the world. About two dozen of Durga Puja events in New Jersey and New York transform the northeast cost into a mini Bengal with cultural exuberance this time of the year. Bengali associations across New York and New Jersey started preparations months ago, so the festivity does not fall short of joy and happiness in their adopted home. They can live away from home, but can’t survive without the blessings of Maa Durga, the bliss of bhoger kichudi, the beats of dhak, and the ecstasy of dunuchi naach.

Travel Beats, a leading overseas Indian community portal by Indian Eagle, curates a list of the best places for Durga puja 2026 in New York and New Jersey.  “Elo re Dugga elo re…” 

Times Square Durga Puja 2026

After two amazing years of Durga Puja at Times Square in 2024 and 2025, the divine celebration is back this year. Usually, Times Square is a popular venue for Diwali, Yoga, and Indian Independence Day celebrations. Unlike other Durga Puja events in the USA, the 2-day Times Square Durga Puja is a free public event for all, regardless of their nationality and religion. It is organized by the Bengali Club of USA.

• Date: October 17 and 18, 2026
• Location: Between W45th and 46th Broadway, Times Square, NY 10036, USA
• Contact: contact@timessquaredurgapuja.org, +1 (914) 458-1285

Sanskriti Durga Puja 2026: Buffalo, NY

Sanskriti, a Bengali cultural association in Buffalo, is one of the best and oldest Durga Puja celebrations in New York. Founded in 1974-75, the Sanskriti Durga Puja is a cultural platform for the present generation of Bengali Diaspora in the northeast US to have a tryst with their heritage, literature, and traditions thousands of miles away from India. Sanskriti also celebrates other festivals with equal enthusiasm. They also organize Kojagori Lokkhi puja at the same venue.

• Dates: October 16 to 18
• Venue: Hindu Cultural Society, Big Temple Auditorium, 1595 N French Road, Getzville, NY 14068
• Contact: president@buffalosanskriti.org, +1 623-499-2329
• Website: Buffalosanskriti.org

New York Kali Mandir Durga Puja, Baldwin

New York Kali Mandir located close to JFK International Airport is the destination if you wish to celebrate Durga Puja in the most traditional manner. Inspired by the Dakshineswar Kali Temple of Kolkata, NYKM is home to Goddess Kali worshiped by Bengalis and other Indian communities. Founded in 2005, the temple doubles up as a community organization and helps preserve the age-old Bengali cultural traditions in New Yok Metropolitan Area. The temple has a well-stocked library for all age groups. Those interested in volunteering can serve the temple this Durga Puja.    

• Dates: October 15 to 20, 2026
• Venue: 614 Seaman Ave, Baldwin, NY, 11510
• Contact: nykmdevotee@gmail.com, +1 516-771-5254
• Website: Nykalimandir.org

Also read: Sanyal Brothers Offer Best Kolkata Street Food with Chai in New York

Durga Puja at Ramakrishna Vivekananda Center of New York

Durga Puja at the Ramakrishna Vivekananda Center of New York for the followers of the Ramakrishna order is among the best Durga puja celebrations in the Greater New York Area. Founded in 1933, the center organizes the puja to worship the Divine Mother and seek Her blessings for humankind. The chanting of sacred hymns and the singing of devotional songs in chorus are the mainstay of their celebration without pomp and in strict adherence to the principles laid out by Belur Math, the headquarters of Ramakrishna Missions worldwide.     

In 2026, the center will hold two special services: Mother Worship on October 18 and a Meditation and Flower Offering Service on October 20.

• Dates: October 18 and 20, 2026
• Venue: 17 E 94th St, New York, NY 10128
• Contact: (212) 534-9445, E-mail: rvcenternewyork@gmail.com
• Website: Ramakrishna.org

East Coast Cultural Association Durga Puja, NY

The East Coast Cultural Association, one of the youngest communities in New York, has planned a spectacular Durga puja celebration this year to mark its third anniversary. Founded in 2022, the non-profit Bong organization strives to create the ambience of parar pujo in Kolkata through a grand display of traditional Bengali culture, ranging from mouthwatering dishes to live music programs, at their puja venue.

The ECCA Durga Puja 2026 schedule includes Dhurandhar-fame singer Subhadeep Das Chowdhury’s live performance on October 23, followed by Fakira Band on October 24. The celebrations will conclude on October 25 with live tasha, antakshari, and a DJ.

• Dates: October 23, 24, 25
• Venue: Gujarati Samaj Hall, 17315 Horace Harding Expy, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365
• Contact: eastcoastcultural@gmail.com
• Website: Eccany.com

Utsov Durga Puja 2026 in New Jersey

Utsov Inc. is known for one of the biggest Durga Puja events in New Jersey. Their celebration, both traditional and contemporary, has several ‘wow’ factors – delectable Bengali food, Sindoor Khela, Dhunuchi dance, cultural programs, and art competition for kids. East Brunswick near Edison is their puja venue that turns into a Disneyland of festivities and revelry for two days.  

This year, Utsov Inc will host National Award-winning vocalist Iman Chakraborty, who will bring her acclaimed blend of Rabindra Sangeet, Bengali folk, and contemporary music to New Jersey on October 17. On October 18, Sourendro–Soumyojit, Bengal’s celebrated musical duo, will perform Rabindra Sangeet, folk traditions, and contemporary favorites. Prior registration is compulsory to enter the venue and attend the live events.

• Dates: October 17 and 18
• Contact: 201 787 6861 or 516 519 1434, utsov@utsov.org
• Venue: Jo Ann Magistro Performing Arts Center, 200 Rues Lane, East Brunswick, NJ 
• Website: Utsov.org

Also read: Indian Food is a Pure Bliss at This Temple Kitchen in New York

Garden State Puja Committee’s 45th Durga Puja, Jersey City

The Bengalis of Garden State Puja Committee organizes one of the oldest and biggest Durga Puja celebrations in New Jersey every year. Their 45th Jersey City Durga Puja 2026 is a 3-day celebration over Sharad Mela, cultural programs, and live musical performances. GSPC Durga Puja will begin with Sharad Mela on October 16, featuring stalls, cultural programs, and performances by USA-based local artists, like Bengali modern songs, natok, and kobita.

The festivities will continue on October 17 with Hooliganism, a Bengali band performing live and bringing its signature Bengali hooliganism vibe to the stage. On October 18, popular Bengali singer Anindya Bose will perform live in the USA for the first time.

• Dates: October 16, 17, 18
• Venue: William L. Dickinson High School, 2 Palisade Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306
• Contact: +1 201-463-4742 | info@gardenstatepuja.org
• Website: gspcnj.com

New Jersey Kallol Durga Puja 2026  

Among the Durga Puja celebrations in New Jersey, Kallol Durga Puja hits the headlines every year. One of the oldest Bengali organizations on the Northeast Coast, Kallol will transform Hillsborough Township into a vibrant stage of Bengali culture, devotion, food, creativity, and community over three days, from October 16 to 18.

The 2026 celebration will feature a star-studded lineup of artists and performers. Bengali playback singer Lagnajita Chakraborty will perform live, while Jisshu & The Retrodictions will make their US debut. Popular Indian singer Richa Sharma and Dipan Mitra & Band will also take the stage. Adding to the musical extravaganza, Ash King will perform live in the USA for the first time. It is a paid event, and prior registration is required.

• Dates: October 16 to 18
• Venue: Iron Peak, 137 Mountain View Rd, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
• Contact: 732.290.5218, Website: Kallol.com

Also read: Why Bengal worships living goddesses during Durga puja

Agrani Durga Puja 2026, Plainfield NJ

Agrani Durga Puja in Plainfield near Edison is one of the top Indian events in New Jersey in October 2026. Like WomenNow TV’s Durga Puja in California, the women members of Agrani NJ organize the puja, from fabulous feasting to cultural extravaganza. Equally popular with the Bong and non-Bengalis in Central New Jersey, Agrani Durga Puja promises an exhilarating experience for music connoisseurs. This year, prominent Indian singer Usha Uthup will perform live, while Cactus Bangla Band will also take over the stage for a special concert. 

• Dates: October 10 and 11
• Venue: 730 Central St Plainfield, NJ 07062 United States
• Contact: info@agranicnj.org | 954-918-8589

Alor Benu Durga Puja in Edison, NJ 

The ‘Ekchala’ style Durga idol is the main attraction of this humble celebration by a few Bengali families in Edison, NJ. More a gharoa (homely) puja than a community celebration, Alor Benu Durga Puja brings families together for traditional rituals, devotional offerings, and cultural festivities. The 2026 celebration will feature Durga rituals, bhog meals, cultural performances, a live band, and an open stage. Visitors can also enjoy Bengali flavors at the Taste of Bengal food stall.

• Dates: October 9 to 11
• Venue: 2 Farmhaven Avenue, Edison, NJ 08820
• Contact: aamantran@aalorbenu.net, (908) 294-1954

New Jersey Ananda Mandir Durga Puja 2026

Durga Puja at Ananda Mandir in New Jersey is a traditional celebration. Hundreds of New Jersey Indians throng the shrine to immerse themselves in festive revelries for five days. NJ Ananda Mandir is one of the few Hindu temples in the USA that follows the Bengali calendar precisely for celebrating Durga Puja and other festivals. You may need to pre-register online. Upon successful registration, you will receive a confirmation email, which you can show to the volunteers at the temple complex.

• Dates: October 16 to 21
• Venue: 269 Cedar Grove Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873-5212
• Contact: (732) 873-9821 or info@anandamandir.org
• Website: Anandamandir.org

Garden State Cultural Association: Plainfield, NJ

Among the best places for Durga Puja 2026 in New Jersey, Garden State Cultural Association (GSCA) is gearing up for their 35th year of the celebration. GSCA, a nonprofit Indian American organization of Bengalis in Plainfield, leaves no stone unturned to make Durga Puja a grand get-together of not only Bengalis but also other Indian communities over delicious food, shopping, and cultural entertainment. The lineup of events include talent shows and drawing competitions.

Registration is compulsory to attend the celebration, especially cultural programs. You can register on their website given below. Singer Manasi Ghosh, winner of Indian Idol Season 15, and Bhoomi, pioneers of Bengali urban folk since 1999, are among the eminent guests this year.

• Dates: October 24 and 25
• Venue: Melvin H. Kreps Middle School, 5 Kent Lane East Windsor, NJ-08520
• Contact: (908) 367-3322 or contact@gsca.us
• Website: web.gsca.us

Also Read: Payal Saha’s Kati Roll from Kolkata Rocks in New York

Bengali Cultural Society Durga Puja: South Jersey

In New Jersey, Bengali Cultural Society’s Durga Puja celebration is a lot more than food, fun and frolic. Rather, it mirrors the rich cultural heritage of Bengal on the American soil. Founded in 1978, Bengali Cultural Society is not just one of the oldest Bengali diaspora associations but a philanthropic organization too. They publish their own magazine Sanskriti every year and run a Bengali language school for their young ones and those interested in learning the language. Each day of the puja will culminate in an authentic Bengali community dinner.

The 2026 celebration will feature food and cultural events. Singer Sispiya Banerjee and Sagnik Sen will perform on October 17, while rising singing stars Biswarup Banerjee and Prativa Dutta will perform on October 18.

• Dates: October 16, 17, 18
• Venue: Indian Cultural Center, 820 NJ-73, Marlton, NJ 08053
• Contact: info@bcssj.org, Website: Bcssj.org

New Jersey Bharat Sevashram Sangha Durga Puja

The New Jersey chapter of Bharat Sevashram Sangha celebrates Durga Puja to worship the Supreme Power of the universe. The chanting of slokas and hymns reverberates in the air of the ashram temple during Durga Puja. Devotees can soak in numinous vibes that the ambience is rife with this time of the year. Bharat Sevashram Sangha is one of the few places where all the rituals of Durga Puja are strictly followed in compliance with the scriptures. Devotees are requested to pre-register for the puja.

• Dates: October 10 and 11; October 16 to 20
• Location: 3490 Route-27 Kendral Park, New Jersey 08824
• Contact: 732 422 8880/ 347 735 2984 | devotees@sevashramsangha.org
• Website: sevashramsangha.org

Trinayani Durga Puja in Plainsboro, New Jersey

A non-profit organization established in 2022 with the aim to promote India’s rich art and culture, Trinayani is eyeing a theme-based Durga Puja celebration in a grander fashion this year. In its inaugural year (2022), Trinayani was the first and only one to have worshipped the protima (idol) made by Prabasi Bengalis among the community members. The Bong being great foodies complement their festivities with sumptuous food.

The musical acts by Chandrabindoo and Bombay Vikings, featuring Neeraj Shridhar, will make this year’s celebration memorable. Both artists will perform live. You may contact Trinayani for registrations. This is a ticketed event.

• Dates: October 17 and 18
• Venue: Community Middle School, 95 Grovers Mill Rd, Plainsboro Township, NJ 08536
• Contact: contact@trinayaninj.org  
• Website: www.trinayaninj.org

PBA Durga Puja 2026, New Jersey

Princeton Bengali Association in New Jersey will celebrate Durga Puja on October 10 and 11 in Plainsboro. Dhunuchi naach, Sindoor khela, and other traditional rituals are the hallmarks of their humble celebration. Renowned singer Rishi Panda has been invited for a musical evening at PBA Durga Puja in New Jersey. The event is free for kids (5 years and below).

• Date: October 10 and 11
• Venue: Community Middle School, Plainsboro, NJ
• Contact: pbanj.org, princetonbengalees@gmail.com

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The post New York & New Jersey Durga Puja Celebrations 2026 List: East Cost Turns into a Mini Bengal first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

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In the current immigration landscape of USA, 6 children of Indian immigrants have bagged the prestigious 2026 Davidson Fellows Scholarship. These young researchers and innovators received $25,000 to $100,000 scholarships (collectively $325,000) for highly effective solutions to real-world problems, like passenger flight safety, citrus greening, nuclear reactor heat flux, malaria prevention, and drug discovery. Despite immigration upheavals, Indian-origin kids continue to shine in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, America’s Top Young Scientist Challenge, and Regeneron Science Talent Search.                

6 Indian American Students Bag 2026 Davidson Fellows Scholarship 

• Aditya Sengupta, Washington, received $100,000 for ForeCAT, an AI-based system that predicts clear-air turbulence.

• Tanishka Aglave, Florida, received $50,000 for her research on an eco-friendly approach to fighting citrus greening disease.

• Hitaishi Chillara, Texas, received $50,000 for his research on supermassive black hole growth using simulations and machine learning.

• Praadhyumn Indaana, New Jersey, received $50,000 for developing a physics-guided neural network to improve critical heat flux predictions.

• Rajarshi Mandal, Massachusetts, received $50,000 for developing a mathematical model to improve malaria prevention.

• Pavan Subramani, West Virginia, received $25,000 for combining generative AI and molecular simulations to accelerate drug discovery. 

Aditya Sengupta and his AI solution for aviation safety 

Among the 2026 Davidson Fellows, Aditya Sengupta bagged the top honor – Davidson Fellow Laureate Scholarship $100,000. An 18-year-old robotics enthusiast from Bellevue, Washington, Aditya developed an advanced system to help flights evade possible mid-air turbulences. Part of his winning project ‘ForeCAT’, the system uses atmospheric physics, weather data, and machine learning to predict clear air turbulence (CAT) with greater accuracy. Several turbulence events in 2025 jeopardizing international flights and passengers propelled him to invent the solution. Aditya is a Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar too.

Tanishka Aglave and her citrus disease solution

The only Indian-origin girl among the Davidson Fellows in 2026, Tanishka Aglave received the $50,000 Davidson scholarship for her research on citrus greening disease. She took on this as daughter of an Indian-origin citrus grower in Florida. Her project combines curry leaf extract, localized steam therapy, and a computer vision app to treat the disease and track its severity. Her research brings together plant science, agriculture, and artificial intelligence.

Tanishka completed more than 300 hours of research, earning top honors at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. She aspires to major in biological sciences and develop cost-effective solutions for farming communities. Outside research, she enjoys cooking, spending time with her dog, celebrating Indian festivals with her family, and air pistol shooting.

Hitaishi Chillara and his research on supermassive black holes

Hitaishi Chillara from Leander, Texas earned a $50,000 Davidson Fellows Scholarship for his intriguing project on supermassive black hole growth. His research explores the relationship between galaxies and the giant black holes at their centers. An active member of robotics clubs, the 17-year-old got curious about AI and machine learning after wondering how a toy robot dog could maintain its balance while walking. He aspires to study astrophysics and electrical engineering. He also tutors others in mathematics and physics. If he could invite anyone to dinner, the guest list would include mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, along with Richard Feynman and Enrico Fermi.

Praadhyumn Indaana and his AI model for nuclear safety 

Praadhyumn Indaana from Montvale, New Jersey, leverages physics and computing to address a critical nuclear reactor safety problem. He received a $50,000 Davidson Fellows Scholarship for developing a physics-guided neural network that predicts critical heat flux – a hazardous threshold of heat transfer in nuclear reactors. He derived data from more than 10,000 experiments and infused it into his AI model for 8 months. His invention has cut the average prediction error from about 63% to 5.5%. This Standford Online High School student was once invited to the US Physics Team camp.

Rajarshi Mandal and his mathematical solution for malaria

At 16, Rajarshi Mandal from Lexington, Massachusetts, is the youngest of the six Indian American 2026 Davidson Fellows. His $50,000 award-winning project focuses on a global health problem: malaria prevention. Rajarshi developed a mathematical model to determine how insecticide-treated mosquito nets can be distributed more effectively.

Mathematics, computer science, biology and public health are among his main interests. Rajarshi is also active outside research. He plays piano and has performed twice at Carnegie Hall. He enjoys volleyball, skiing and mountain biking and also holds a black belt in karate.

Pavan Subramani and his AI approach to drug discovery

Can AI make drug discovery faster? Pavan Subramani, 17, from Morgantown, West Virginia, is exploring exactly that question. His research combines generative diffusion models with molecular dynamics simulations to make computer-based studies of drug and protein interactions faster without compromising accuracy. The work earned him the $25,000 Davidson Fellows Scholarship.

Pavan is interested in computational chemistry and biophysics and plans to pursue research that can advance human health through drug discovery. His work also earned a third-place Grand Award in Chemistry at the International Science and Engineering Fair, and he was a mentee in the MIT Research Science Institute. Outside research, he founded The Substance Safety Project, a nonprofit focused on substance abuse advocacy, and enjoys playing and performing the viola.

The post 2026 Davidson Fellows: Six Indian Americans Teens Win $325K Scholarship for Innovative STEM Projects first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

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From universities to conglomerates to government agencies, the American C-suite continues to tap into the talent and brilliance of Indian origin for growth and expansion. Despite the ongoing rant against Indian immigrants to make American great again (MAGA), Adobe Inc. bets on another Indian American to succeed Shantanu Narayen who stepped from Adobe’s CEO role after 18 years. Adobe’s new CEO and President is Anil Chakravarthy. He will take over the reign from Shantanu Narayen on 1 December 2026, while the latter will take up the role of executive chair.

All about new Adobe CEO Anil Chakravarthy 

Anil Chakravarthy is a global professional with 6 years of leadership experience at Adobe in San Jose, California. In January 2020, he joined Adobe as executive vice president and general manager for Adobe’s Digital Experience business. In 2021, he helmed the additional responsibility of catering to enterprise-level customers across a spectrum of Adobe products in both productivity and creativity portfolios – which earned him promotion to Adobe’s President of digital experience and worldwide field operations.

Anil Chakravarthy’s salary at Adobe 

At Adobe, Anil Chakravarthy received a compensation about $17.79 million (including cash and equity) in 2025 as President of Digital Experience and worldwide field operations. His total compensation was about $17 million in 2024 and $15.08 million in 2023. No information is yet available on his salary as Adobe’s next CEO and President. Whether Anil Chakravarthy’s pay hike would match the compensation of Adobe’s outgoing CEO Shantanu Narayen, it is subject to speculations. $51.17 million was Shantanu Narayen’s total compensation in 2025, according to several reports.

Anil Chakravarthy’s journey from BHU to MIT 

He ticks all the boxes to be a tech CEO in America’s Silicon Valley, like Snowflake Inc. CEO Sridhar Ramaswamy and CEO and Vanguard Group CEO Salim Ramji. Anil Chakravarthy’s journey from Bengaluru to Adobe’s headquarters is a great milestone in itself, given his academic profile, skill portfolio, and decades of experience. He grew up in Bengaluru and studied Computer Science & Engineering at IIT-BHU (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi. Thereafter, he moved to the US for an ‘American Dream’ career. MIT was his next destination for MS and PhD.

Why Adobe chose Anil Chakravarthy over David Wadhwani?

Other than Shantanu Narayen, David Wadhwani has been key to the success of Adobe’s Creativity and Productivity business as its President in two separate tenures. He was a strong contender for Adobe’s CEO position. As he announced his exit from Adobe, Anil Chakravarthy stepped into the C-suite. The leadership change happened in Adobe’s C-suite amid the mounting pressure of AI technology on the photoshop and illustrator maker’s revenues and shares. As CEO and President, Anil is expected to steer Adobe through AI-driven competition from its rivals and the emerging competitors with disruptive business models.

The post Adobe’s Global CEO & President Anil Chakravarthy Succeeds Shantanu Narayen; His Salary, Career first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

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Indian-origin women of color have been on a winning streak, from the C-suite to artificial intelligence to beauty pageants. Be it a test of beauty or brains, they are scoring high and setting new standards with their talent. While 5 Indian-origin girls are racing for America’s Top Young Scientist title 2026 as finalists, 18-year-old Kiran Reddy is proudly boasting her crown as Miss Teen USA 2026.

Who is Kiran Reddy, Miss Teen USA in 2026?

Kiran Reddy is an Indian American teen from the US state of Georgia. She won the Miss Teen USA title and wore the crown on August 26 at the grand finale held in Miami. In July 2026, she became the first Indian-origin contestant to win the Miss Georgia Teen title and represent her state in the national beauty pageant. She prides herself on being a role model for girls born to non-white immigrants and quietly carrying the legacy of Nina Davuluri, the first Indian American to win the Miss USA title in 2013.

“It is heartwarming to see the first world’s changing perception of Indian beauty (which was earlier seen as brown globally). There was a time when South Asians were barred from becoming US citizens as they were not “White’. For the same reason, Kala Bagai and a few other Indian immigrants were stripped of their American citizenship in 1923. These days Indian Americans of color (brown) are shining bright in different walks of life, from Chef Priyanka Naik to CEO Kruti Patel Goyal. Precisely, brown is the new white,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor of Travel Beats.

2026 Miss Teen USA winner’s career goals

Instead of resting on her new laurels, Kiran Reddy is heading to pursue her passion – medicine. One of her goals is to build a career in women’s health and specialize in gynecology. She has enrolled to the University of Georgia where she will be studying on a pre-med track. She graduated as valedictorian of Coffee High School’s Class of 2026 in Douglas.

She owes her passion for medicine to her physician father. Her father’s medical practice with professional integrity sowed the seeds of her interest in medicine. While volunteering in the labor and delivery wing of Coffee Regional Medical Center, her interest deepened further and turned into a determination to make it big in women’s health care. She also aims to provide prenatal care to underprivileged women in developing nations.

Miss Teen USA Kiran Reddy’s community service

She has earned admiration for her academic excellence and community service alike. She has volunteered at local elementary schools and read out stories to students. She has unconditionally offered service to residents of Lakeside Senior Living Center. She also organized fund-raising charity programs for Alzheimer’s awareness. “It’s never been about the title. It’s never been about the crown. It’s about the impact,” said Kiran in a media interview. With the Miss Teen USA title 2026, she aims to make a positive impact on others.

This news story is part of our continued series of Indian Diaspora’s inspiring journey and achievements. Travel Beats is a subsidiary of IndianEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Indians and Americans. Best Indian Eagle deals make flights from USA to India and other countries affordable, irrespective of routes and travel dates.

The post Who’s Indian American Kiran Reddy? She Wins Miss Teen USA 2026 Crown and Makes History first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

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In 2027, the US capital will be home to an Indian heritage museum and a cricket stadium. A group of Indian Americans is working on the plans to build the first museum where Americans can walk through India’s history and heritage. It is also an Indian American named Sanjay Govil, who came forward to build a cricket stadium in the DMV area. Last year, he was among the businessmen who had shown interest in buying Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), one of the most valuable franchises in Indian Premier League. Now in 2026, he is back in the headlines on receiving approval to build a permanent cricket stadium.

Billionaire Sanjay Govil’s Cricket Stadium: Location and Capacity 

The cricket stadium for Sanjay Govil’s Washington Freedom Major League Cricket team is coming up in Frederick, Maryland. The Frederick City Council approved the rezoning of 24 acres at the Gateway Property, a 30-mile drive northwest of Washington D.C. The Maryland cricket stadium will have 10,000-seating capacity, a five-pitch cricket square, and a multi-purpose community space. It is not just a milestone for him. Rather, a new home for the DMV area’s growing cricket community.

Who is Indian American Sanjay Govil? 

Sanjay Govil is a tech entrepreneur, cricket investor, and billionaire with a net worth of around $2 billion. He is the founder, CEO, and chairman of Infinite Computer Solutions and the owner of MLC franchise Washington Freedom. In 2025, Sanjay Govil’s net worth was reported at more than $1.91 billion (₹16,200 crore), according to media reports. Though he was born in Montreal, Canada, he spent his childhood in India before moving to the United States.

Sanjay grew up on the IIT Delhi campus, where his father, Dr. Narendra Kumar Govil, was a mathematics professor. He studied at the renowned Mount St. Mary’s School in Delhi. His father also has an impressive academic legacy. Dr. Narendra Govil earned his Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Montreal, where Sanjay was born, before returning to India and becoming a professor at IIT Delhi. In 1983, he joined Auburn University in Alabama and eventually became Professor Emeritus in its Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Sanjay Govil’s India to USA journey 

After moving to Alabama, Sanjay completed high school at Auburn High School and enrolled at Auburn University. He studied electrical engineering and completed his undergraduate degree in three years. He later earned a master’s degree from Syracuse University and pursued graduate studies at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

His ‘American Dream’ career began in the technology industry. He worked at IBM and Verizon before taking the biggest risk of his life. In 2001, he moved to the Washington DC metro area with his wife, Vidya Govil, and founded Infinite Computer Solutions with about $1,000 in savings, like many Indian American billionaires. Headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, the company grew into a global technology behemoth providing AI-first healthcare, financial, and telecommunication solutions.

Sanjay later expanded into healthcare technology by founding Zyter, a digital health solution provider cum enterprise SaaS platform. Zyter evolved and expanded through significant acquisitions in 2021 when the COVID-19 pandemic was its peak. Infinite Computer Solutions, with two offshore offices in India (Bengaluru and Hyderabad), was valued at about $1.8 billion and employed thousands of people, according to Forbes’ 2019 reports.

Professional cricket became his next big investment. Tech entrepreneur Sanjay Govil is known to Indians in Maryland, USA for his profound interest in the business of cricket. He bought Washington Freedom cricket team and became a founding investor in USA’s Major League Cricket. The team won its first MLC championship in 2024. In 2025, Sanjay expanded his cricket portfolio to England by acquiring a 50% stake in Welsh Fire, the England and Wales franchise in The Hundred.

For Sanjay Govil, the Maryland stadium is more than another sports investment. He knows what it is like to grow up with cricket and then move to a country where the game has limited visibility. He is looking to create a stronger cricket ecosystem in the DMV region, with a permanent cricket stadium for Washington Freedom as well as the cricket community that can host professional matches, youth sports, and other events.

This news story is part of our continued series of Indian Diaspora’s inspiring journey from India to the US. Travel Beats is a subsidiary of IndianEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Indians and Americans. Best Indian Eagle flight deals make travel cheaper from USA to India and other countries, irrespective of routes.

The post Who is Sanjay Govil? Indian American Tech Tycoon Building a Cricket Stadium in DMV first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

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India is all set to celebrate the 80th Independence Day this August 15, and so are Indians in America. The way Indians abroad celebrate the Independence of Mother India is no way different from the celebration at home. Hence, like previous years, the August 2026 calendar is full of Independence Day events for nearly 5 million Indian-origin population in the United States.

This exclusive list of major Indian Independence Day 2026 events across USA is brought to you by Travel Beats, a leading overseas Indian community portal. Travel Beats is a subsidiary of Indian Eagle, the most-trusted travel-booking partner for Indians in America. These events not only celebrate the Independence of Mother India, but also Indian Americans’ roots, culture and pride of being desi to the core.

India Day Parade 2026 NYC

New York India Day Parade tops the list of all Indian Independence Day celebrations in USA. Scheduled on 16 August 2026, the FIA India Day Parade NYC will follow the spectacular hoisting of Indian Tricolor at Times Square on August 15, celebrating India’s 80^th Independence Day. It celebrates the diversity of Indian culture and heritage through performances by different age groups on Madison Avenue. This most anticipated event is getting bigger every year.

• Date: 16 August 2026
• Venue: Madison Avenue, Manhattan, NYC
• Website: www.fianynjct.org

Atlanta Festival of India 2026

For three decades, the Indian American Cultural Association of Atlanta has been organizing the Festival of India as one of the biggest Indian Independence Day celebrations in USA. Scheduled on 15 August 2026, the Atlanta Festival of India holds special significance as it will celebrate both India’s 80^th Independence Day and America’s 250^th anniversary together this year. With music, feasting, shopping, yoga, chess, dance, and artistic displays, the Festival of India – Atlanta promises a great deal of patriotic fervour. This is a ticketed event.

• Date: 15 August 2026 (Saturday)
• Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Venue: Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097
• Contact: www.iacaatl.org | info@iacaatl.org

Boston India Day Festival 2026

The vibrant culture, music, and traditions of India take center stage at the Boston India Day Festival 2026, one of the most anticipated Indian Independence Day events in USA. Organized by the Indian Association of Greater Boston (IAGB), the patriotic celebration showcases the cultural diversity of the country. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Hatch Memorial Shell, IAGB’s India Day Festival 2026 is titled “Colors of India” promising an unforgettable day of glory and pride in the heart of Boston.

• Date: 15 August 2026
• Venue: DCR Hatch Memorial Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston, MA 02108
• Website: www.iagb.org

Fremont FOG India Day Parade, California   

Of all Indian Independence Day events in America, FOG India Day Parade is as big as the FIA India Day Parade, New York. Fremont’s India Day Parade 2026 is a two-day celebration known for a grand procession, vibrant community gathering, and celebrity appearance. The Grand Marshals of this year’s event are Sanya Malhotra and Abhimanyu Dassani from Bollywood. Organized by the Federation of Indo Americans of Northern California, FOG India Day Parade also features a lively mela with tens of food, shopping, book, and craft booths.

• Date: 15-16 August 2026
• India Day Parade: 16 August at 11:00 AM
• Tickets: $5 to $6
• Venue: 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA 94538
• Website: www.fogsv.com | +1 (510) 491 4867

Los Angeles India Independence Day 2026

The 80^th Indian Independence Day has one of the grand events for Indians in Southern California. The India Association of Los Angeles (IALA) is gearing up for a greater celebration this year. This is a culturally immersive, family-friendly event that features an open air mela, cultural performances, community activities, Indian food stalls, and fashion booths. Dr. K.J. Srinivasa, the Consul General of India in Los Angeles, and Congressman Brad Sharman are the Guests of Honor this year. since 1999, Los Angeles’ Indian Independence Day has been fostering unity and pride among SoCal Indian immigrants.

• Date: 22 August 2026 (Saturday)
• Venue: Hjelte Sports Center, Burbank Blvd, Encino, CA 91436
• Website: www.indiaassociationla.org/

Michigan India Day 2026

Every year, Indians of Michigan get together to celebrate the Indian Independence Day as India Day in Novi, only 25 miles away from Detroit. Organized by the India League of America (ILA), Michigan India Day 2026 is more or less the same as other Indian Independence Day events in the Midwest USA. With traditional Indian food, dance, music, and cultural performances, the India Day in Novi, MI will surely immerse you in the colors and flavors of India. Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh is the Celebrity Guest at this year’s celebration.

• Date: 15 August 2026 (Saturday)
• Venue: Vibe Credit Union Showplace, 46100 Grand River Avenue, Novi, MI 48374
• Website: www.ilamichigan.org

North Carolina Indian Independence Day 2026 

Patriotism meets cultural glory at the Hindu Center of Charlotte during Indian Independence Day celebration every year. “Maa Tujhe Pranaam” is the theme of the 2026 celebration that includes a lineup of performances to pay a spectacular tribute to Mother India. The folk art and culture of various Indian regions make it an unmissable event in Charlotte, North Carolina.

• Date: 15 August 2026
• Venue: Vihar Hall, Hindu Center of Charlotte
• Participation: Registration required (First come, first served)
• Contact: hcculturalteam@gmail.com | (704) 877-4706

Jai Ho! Indian Independence Day Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, and so is the Indian Independence Day celebration! Jai Ho! 2026 returns with a special musical tribute – Ye Jo Des Hai Mera – to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day through patriotic songs and storytelling on a balmy evening in Cedar Park near Austin. The event schedule includes live performances by renowned singers Jitendra Abhyankar, Chaitanya Kulkarni, Abhilasha Chellam, and Malvika Dixit. Obviously, Jai Ho! is one of the most-awaited Indian Independence Day events in Texas.

• Date: 15 August 2026
• Time: 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
• Contact: 732-771-5271
• Venue: 1501 E hope Dr, Cedar Park, Texas 8641-5100

India Independence Day Festival 2026, Florida

The Association of Indians in America (AIA), Florida Chapter is once again bringing the Indian community together for the much-awaited India Independence Day Festival 2026. It is a wonderful occasion to bask in the glory of the home country, soak in the patriotic spirit, and celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day with family and friends. Cultural programs, delicious Indian food, ethnic fashion, and patriotic music are the main draws of the event.

• Date: 16 August 2026
• Venue: Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale 33312
• Website: www.aiafl.org

The post 80th Indian Independence Day 2026 USA: Full List of Events and Celebrations for Indians in USA first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post 80th Indian Independence Day 2026 USA: Full List of Events and Celebrations for Indians in USA appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.