FORDS, NJ: The South Asian Biz Alliance Network, also known as SABAN, and various chapters of United Indian National Overseas Congress (UINOC) and United Indian National Overseas Women Congress (UINOWC) hosted an annual event entitled, ‘Loving Light Interfaith Celebration’ on September 16 evening at Royal Alberts Palace.
The purpose of the event was to celebrate the unity of NRIs and provide a forum to exchange ideas about democracy, secularism and other issues along with the objective of honoring Member of Parliament Jai Prakash Agarwal who specially traveled from India to spread the word of moral values, harmony and love for the Indian-American community.
Talking to Pam Kwatra, Co-Founder of SABAN and President of United Indian National Overseas Women Congress and President of New Jersey chapter, Shri Jai Prakash Agarwal said, “It would be a great pleasure to work closely with the National Executive committee members and all other UINOC chapters to contribute towards strengthening the mission of a democratic and secular India, and bring in the NRIs based here to have their thoughts and voices heard in a more effective and goal-oriented way.”
He commended the work of UINOC and said it was a pleasure to see the younger generation coming and supporting peace, love and harmony on humanity basis.
Consul General Prabhu Dayal graced the celebration and appreciated the gathering for its set of values. He said SABAN has set an example for the community with skillful activities and bringing people of different religions together on ‘Loving Light’ interfaith event.
Congressman Upendra Chivukula presented proclamation to Shri Jai Prakash Agarwal and said, “This annual interfaith event should not end tonight but should be carried on irrespective of race, religion and oneness. Communal harmony, peace and love were based on actions, as actions speak louder than words.”
Consul General of Australia Phillip Scanlan spoke about interfaith harmony, and how people from different backgrounds are living in harmony in Australia. He also spoke with great respect of how Indians have achieved a high status in Australia.
Teens Prachi and Surya Makkar emceed the event with National Anthem and spiritual speech and Gurbani. Several priests from the Sikh, Punjabi, Christian and Buddhist communities and many other community leaders provided insight to work closely with one another.
Mohinder Singh Pal introduced basics of Sikhism which put emphasis on way of life. Dr. Raina Massey expressed thoughts on Christianity for unity in family, confidence in values, community unity and confidence in God.
Blair Williams articulated her valued viewpoint in Roman Catholicism “Love God with all soul and mind as Love with respect to each other brings unity in communities.” Poonam Bhatia commented on Buddhism which encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs, and practices largely based on awakenings. Elizabeth Riley spoke on the need to Inspire, motivate, and ignite your mind, body, and soul for humanity.
There was also a round-table opportunity to meet presidents and board members of various chapters. That showed the desire of Congress to work closely with National Executive Committee members and all other UINOC chapters so as to strengthen the mission of a democratic and secular India.
Entertainment by Megha Kalia and her team from NYC Bhangra Dance School did performance in traditional Bhangra dances.
Shri Jai Prakash Agarwal presented a Kashmir shawl to Pam Kwatra and to all the UINOC chapter presidents and Chairman including UINOC National President Gurmit Singh Gill, Chairman Arun Govil, Co-Chair & NY Chapter President Eric Kumar, Youth Chapter President Rahul Bathla and Chairman Saagar Govil, Haryana Chapter President Charan Singh Prempura, Pennsylvania Chapter President Jagdeep Sohal, NJ Chapter President Mandeep Singh Hans, Gujarat President Dipak Valsadia. Punjab NY Wing President Satish Sharma and Chairman Gurmit Singh Butur.
Shri Jai Prakash Agarwal also honored Ambassador Prabhu Dayal, Consul General Phlilip Scanlan, Congressman Upendra Chivukula, Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Poonam Bhatia, Blair Williams, AAPI Past President Dr. Sunita Kanumury, Gary Grewal, and other guests.
Gurmit Singh Gill, Arun Govil, Pam Kwatra and Rahul Bathla thanked all the delegates of tri-state and guests for coming to the annual interfaith gathering. Eric Kumar emceed the event which ended with dinner and vote of thanks to sponsors.
India Post News Service
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