Gujarati Samaj of New York  was established as non-profit organization in 1974. Over last 40 years the Samaj has conducted several activities to promote Gujarati/Indian culture and heritage in the tri-state area. The Consulate General of India, New York in association with the Gujarati Samaj, New York hosted a special curtain-raiser event on June 04, 2014 to announce 'Cultural Festival of Gujarat' to mark the association's 40th Anniversary to be celebrated from Aug 08, 2014 to Aug 10, 2014 at St. Anthony's Conference Center, New York.

(L to R) Seen lighting the lamp Mr. Harshad Patel, Consul General Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay, Mr. R. D. Patel and     Ms. Bharti Desai with the Board of Trustees.

Inaugurating the event with the traditional lighting of the lamp, Consul General Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay praised the Samaj's continuous efforts in promoting Indian culture amongst the second generation Americans. He also spoke about the promotion of Indian culture and language by the Consulate and explained the concept behind Media India 2014 Lecture Series and India - State by State 2014. The event started with a traditional Ganesh Vandana dance recital and the National Anthems of India and USA. Consul General also launched the event website.

(L to R) Ms. Bharti Desai, Mr. R. D. Patel and Mr. Harshad Patel

Mr. R. D. Patel, Chairman of Board of Trustees, Gujarati Samaj of New York, exalted the work of the founders of the Samaj, who have made the association one of the oldest and vibrant organization in the tri-state area. Ms. Bharti Desai, Program Manager, elucidated the Samaj's current activities which include conducting spiritual seminars and discourse. Mr. Harshad Patel, President, Gujarati Samaj of New York briefed on the festivities lined up for the 'Cultural Festival of Gujarat'. The 3-day mega event will include programs such as Garbo from Gujarati Samaj, Bhavai by Shakuntal Arts, Kamlesh Patel Dance, Dayro by Sairam Dave & Group, Women Seminar by Kajal Oza, Group Bhajans by HariBharwad, Fashion Show by Sringar group, Sahitya lecture, Auction of Arts and Award Ceremony.

View of the audience

The audience were treated to a program conducted in Gujarati and Hindi, upholding the spirit of promoting Indian culture.