ORANGE, CA: April 17th 2026, GOPIO-LA celebrated India’s biggest spring festival, Vaishakhi. The celebration included representation from various states of India. It was an amazing evening. The hall was packed with more than 270 people. Thanks to ALL members for supporting a “Dhamakedar” Vaishakhi.
Kewal Kanda, the Vice President of GOPIO International shared that GOPIO is representing Indian Diaspora worldwide with chapters in 51 countries. He shared the mission, vision, and global impact of the organization. GOPIO addresses the needs and concerns of our Indian Diaspora. He also shared information about the annual event in December this year happening in Mumbai. He introduced the current President of GOPIO-LA, Baljinder Tahim and thanked him for his fine leadership. Yatri Shukla, GOPIO-LA’s secretary handled the proceedings of the program and kept the entire audience engaged.
The celebration started with spiritual singing by Sandeep Singh and his two young sons that set the tone for a proper Vaishakhi celebration. The significance of Vaisakhi, its meaning, and cultural importance was explained by Jimmy Singh. ‘Got Bhangra Academy’ teams that included Children of various age groups, rocked the stage. Punjabi folk dancers were electrifying and energetic. Singers Gagandeep Siddhu and Priya Kumar presented a good variety of songs that were upbeat and got audience involved and up on their feet with their melodious singing.
All these things could not have been possible without our sponsors. The food was scrumptious with a lot of varieties that even included Punjabi culture’s favorite sweets. The vendors of jewelry and clothing allowed audience for gift giving and self-indulging. Punjab’s favorite music, the dhol, bhangra, boliyan, and gidda by ladies enhanced the ambiance. Several people shared that this event reminded them of the way they used to celebrate Vaisakhi back home.
Past Presidents and Chairpersons along with our generous sponsors were honored with plaques. This celebration was the culmination of hard-working Executive Committee that included President – Baljinder Tahim; Vice President – Aparna Hande; Treasurer – Meeta Gupta; Secretary – Yatri Shukla; and Joint Secretary – Priya Kumar Islam, and some volunteers
GOPIO-LA’s next events include Picnic for Mother’s Day, Karaoke for Father’s Day, International Yoga Day, Beach Cleaning, USA’s 250th Year Independence Day celebration, and continuing with monthly Health and Fitness Day.
Also Read: GOPIO LA Hosts Annual Diabetes Summit: Empowering the community through Education and Awareness.
