Hundreds gather to honor Punjabi heritage, recognize community leaders, and strengthen cross-cultural unity.
Mineola, NY: The historic Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building radiated with festive energy as the American Punjabi Society (APS), in collaboration with the Nassau County Office of Asian American Affairs, hosted a grand celebration of Vaisakhi — the 326th Khalsa Sarjana Diwas and the festival that marks both the joyous Punjabi harvest season.
This vibrant event, supported by Nassau County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman, brought together elected officials, community leaders, cultural performers, and residents from across Long Island to celebrate Punjabi heritage and its enduring values of unity, gratitude, and selfless service.
“Vaisakhi represents the strength and vibrancy of the Punjabi spirit,” said Hon. Bruce Blakeman. “The American Punjabi Society continues to be a vital partner in building bridges and enhancing diversity throughout Nassau County. We are proud to celebrate with them.”
“Vaisakhi is not just a festival—it is a reminder of our roots, our resilience, and our responsibility to serve,” said Harry Singh Bolla, Founder Patron of APS. “Through unity and seva, we keep our culture alive and our community strong.”
“This is more than a celebration—it’s a commitment to community,” said Gary Sikka in his keynote. “Every event we host is about preserving our values, inspiring the next generation, and giving back with love.”
(Photo courtesy: American Punjabi Society)
An Evening of Culture, Cuisine, and Community
Led by APS Global President Gary S. Sikka and Founder Patron Harry Singh Bolla, the evening began with warm hospitality over tea and snacks, followed by a dynamic cultural showcase featuring bhangra, giddha, and a short, impactful video on the significance of Vaisakhi — all met with heartfelt applause.
The program began with a dignified Presentation of Colors, setting a tone of unity and respect for the nation and community.
A specially installed giant TV screen — the first ever set up by an Indian organization in the Legislative Chambers — ensured that everyone in attendance had a clear view of the performances and presentations, adding a new level of professionalism and inclusivity to the event.
The APS Vaisakhi Celebration was further elevated by the gracious presence of several esteemed dignitaries, whose attendance underscored the growing partnership between local government and the vibrant Punjabi-American community. Distinguished guests included Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips, Nassau County Legislator and Deputy Presiding Officer Thomas McKevitt, Senior Advisor to the Nassau County Executive Chaudhary Akram, and Nassau County Assistant District Attorney Sheryar Ali.
(Photo courtesy: American Punjabi Society)
The event was masterfully coordinated by Syed Own Naqvi, Executive Director of the Nassau County Office of Asian American Affairs, whose commitment and leadership were instrumental in bringing together this memorable and meaningful celebration.
The celebration attracted a distinguished gathering of community leaders and dignitaries, showcasing the unity, strength, and spirit of the Indian American diaspora. Notable attendees included Mr. Sunil Hali, respected media figure; Jasbir “Jay” Singh, President of IALI; Pradeep Tandon, Immediate Past President of IALI; and Past Presidents Mr. Satnam Singh Parhar, Ms. Bina Sabapathy, and Dr. Avtar Singh Tinna, Chair of the 5K Vaisakhi Run—each of whom has played a pivotal role in upholding their organization’s tradition of excellence and community service.
Representatives from other prominent Indian-American organizations also joined in the festivities, including Gobind Munjal, President of the National Executive Committee of the Association of Indians in America (AIA) and Past President of IALI; Beena Kothari, President of AIA New York Chapter and past President of IALI; Deepak Bansal, President of the India Day Parade; Pinki Jaggi, President of the Long Island Ladies Circle (LILC); Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Past President of both AIA and IALI; Dr. Tarun Wasil, esteemed physician and community advocate; Dr. Raj Bhayani, renowned surgeon and civic leader; and Dr. Dipak Nandi, acclaimed physician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.
Adding pride to the evening was the presence of the Sikh Officers Association of the NYPD, led by President Sgt. Gurvinder Singh and Vice President Detective Delare Singh Rathour, along with their team—symbolizing the community’s growing representation in public service and law enforcement.
(Photo courtesy: American Punjabi Society)
The APS Vaisakhi Celebration was deeply honored to welcome representatives from all four major Gurdwaras of Long Island, demonstrating spiritual unity and community harmony:
Guru Nanak Darbar of Long Island, Hicksville, NY
Represented by:
– Sardar Dayal Singh Vohra, Chairman
– Balbeer Singh Pahwa, President
– Harcharan Singh Gulati, General Secretary
Guru Gobind Singh Sikh Center, Plainview, NY
Represented by:
– Inderpal Dhall, President
– Varinder P. Sikka, General Secretary
Gurdwara Shaheedan Inc., Hicksville, NY
Represented by:
– Giani Bhupinder Singh
Mata Sahib Kaur Gurdwara, Glen Cove, NY
Represented by:
– Harcharan Singh Sachdev, General Secretary
Gobind Batheja, Founder Trustee of the AsaMai Hindu Temple, was also among the honored guests.
Contributing to the success of the event were several dedicated members of the APS Advisory Committee, including Pradeep Tandon, Dr. Raj Bhayani, Paramjit Singh Bedi, Harman Singh Bhasin, Mohinder Singh Miglani, Surjeet Singh, Eric Kumar, Gobind Bhateja, Harbans Singh Vohra, Raj Sharma, Ronit Singh Bhatia, Babli Sikka, and Paramjit Singh Sondhi.
The dynamic APS Women’s Council was represented with enthusiasm and elegance by Navneet K. Sondhi (Chair), Jessica Kaur Kalra, Esq., Priyanka Khanna, Shweta Malhotra, Dr. Taranjit K. Ahuja, Guntaj Arora, Dilsheet Kaur, Harleen Jolly, Binny Kaur, and Swati Anand.
The APS Youth Council brought youthful energy and commitment through the participation of Prabgun Sondhi, Rubal Sikka, Saheb Dhiman, Janessa Sondhi, and Ekonkar Singh.
Finally, the APS Law Advisory Council was proudly represented by Gurvinder S. Sahni, Esq. and Jessica K. Kalra, Esq.
APS Sr. Vice President Mohinder S. Taneja, APS Vice President Paul S. Bindra and Janessa Sondhi, Social Media Coordinator of the APS Youth Council, each spoke eloquently about the significance of Vaisakhi, highlighting its deep historical roots, cultural importance, and the enduring values of unity, service, and renewal it represents for the Punjabi community and beyond.
A special 8-page souvenir flyer, curated by Pradeep Tandon, Editor and Director of Media & Public Relations for the American Punjabi Society, was distributed at the event. It featured an insightful article by Janessa Sondhi, a talented 10th-grade student, whose thoughtful reflection on Vaisakhi beautifully embodied the spirit of youth engagement and cultural pride that APS champions.
Another highlight of the evening was a lavish dinner catered by Mint, widely praised for its authentic flavors, elegant presentation, and traditional Punjabi menu. Guests truly experienced the essence of culture — through both performance and cuisine.
Honoring Changemakers: 2025 Vaisakhi Awards
Nine outstanding individuals were honored for their contributions to leadership, community service, and cultural enrichment:
“We are proud to recognize these heroes of our community,” said Mr. Sikka. “Their seva — their selfless service — uplifts lives and embodies the spirit of Vaisakhi.”
In a testament to her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to community service, Navneet Sikka Sondhi, Chair of the APS Women's Council, was honored with special citations from both Nassau County and the Town of North Hempstead. These accolades recognize her outstanding efforts in empowering women through cultural and civic engagement, underscoring her pivotal role in fostering inclusivity and strengthening community bonds.
