Receives Recognition Award at Times Square celebration
New York: Ruma Devi, the internationally acclaimed social activist and designer from Rajasthan, India, was honored with the Nari Shakti Award at Long Island’s Outlook Beach and the Recognition Award at the world-renowned Times Square, New York. The honors were conferred in the presence of thousands of Indian Americans and distinguished dignitaries, including U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan (Consul General of India in New York), Edward P. Romaine (Suffolk County Executive), and Rich Schaffer (Supervisor, Town of Babylon).
Beena Kothari, Chairperson of the Association of Indians in America (AIA), which has represented the Indian community in the U.S. for over 50 years, expressed pride in presenting the Pravasi Bharatiya Award to Ruma Devi, saying that “Ruma Devi symbolizes the essence of Indian culture and womanhood.”
In her address, Ruma Devi extended warm greetings to both the Indian and American communities for coming together to celebrate the spirit of Diwali.
At the Diwali at Times Square ceremony, Ruma Devi was honored as the Chief Guest for her remarkable contributions to social work and women’s empowerment. Prominent personalities, including the Justice of the Supreme Court, renowned Punjabi singer Malkit Singh, Indian Idol winner Rishi Singh, singer Anjana Padmanabhan, and cultural leaders Neeta Bhasin and Ashish Khanna graced the event.
During the Diwali at Times Square Gala Dinner, Ruma Devi presented a documentary highlighting Rajasthan’s industries and emerging opportunities, emphasizing the importance of expanding Indian craft and entrepreneurship in the American market.
In her meeting with the Consul General of India in New York, Ruma Devi discussed the possibilities of a joint action plan to strengthen trade and cultural collaboration.
Despite completing formal education only up to the eighth grade, Ruma Devi has united and empowered thousands of rural women through her foundation by promoting skill development and financial independence. Her dedication has not only brought global recognition to Indian handicrafts but also amplified the voice of rural India on international platforms.
Ruma Devi was invited as a Guest Speaker at the prestigious Harvard University, and she received a Special Congressional Recognition Certificate from U.S. Congressman Troy E. Nehls for her international contributions. Additionally, the governments of Suffolk and Nassau Counties, New York, also honored her for her outstanding work in women’s empowerment.
