Washington DC: Indian diplomatic missions across the United States marked India’s 77th Republic Day with flag-hoisting ceremonies and programs underscoring the significance of the Constitution and the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
In Washington, D.C., India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, unfurled the tricolor at India House. Members of the Indian diaspora participated in the celebrations, during which the Embassy telecast President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the nation delivered on the eve of Republic Day.
“Since January 26, 1950, we have been propelling our Republic towards our constitutional ideals. On that day, our Constitution was fully enforced. Bharat, the birthplace of democracy, was unshackled from the dominion system, and our democratic republic came into existence,” President Murmu noted in her speech.
She emphasized that India’s Constitution is the “foundational document” of the largest republic in world history.
“The ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in our Constitution define our Republic,” she added. “The framers of the Constitution provided a strong bedrock for the spirit of nationalism and the unity of the country through constitutional provisions.”
President Murmu also highlighted India’s economic trajectory, noting that the country is
the world’s fastest-growing major economy. Despite global uncertainties, she said, “India is recording continuous economic growth. We are moving towards achieving our goal of becoming the world’s third-largest economy in the near future.”
As part of the Washington celebrations, the Ambassador presented awards to winners of competitions organized to mark Vishwa Hindi Diwas.
In New York, Consul General Binaya Pradhan hoisted the tricolor at the Consulate and read the President of India’s address, emphasizing the “timeless values of the Constitution and the vital role of citizens at home and the Indian
diaspora abroad in building a Developed India@2047.”
The Consulate expressed gratitude to community members who attended the event despite extreme weather conditions.
In Houston, Consul General D.C. Manjunath marked the occasion with “solemnity and pride.” Following the unfurling of the national flag, he also read the President’s address.
The celebrations included a special “Vande Mataram” exhibition commemorating 150 years of the iconic national song and highlighting its role in India’s freedom movement, followed by a patriotic cultural presentation.
According to the Seattle Consul-
ate, Indian Tricolour was unfurled on the Federal Reserve Building.
Mayor of Seattle Katie Wilson graced the occasion and reaffirmed the friendship between India and Seattle.
The new office of the India Consular Application Center (colocated with the Consulate now) was also inaugurated during the celebrations. Over 300 members of the Indian American community joined in marking the Republic Day celebrations extra special, according to the Seattle Consulate.
Celebrating the “indomitable spirit” of India on its 77th Republic Day, the Consul General of India in Atlanta, Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan along with officers and
staff of the Consulate, members of the Indian diaspora, and friends of India, gathered to ceremonially unfurl the Tiranga and mark the historic occasion with solemnity, tradition, and national pride.
On the occasion, the Consul General read out the President of India’s message to the nation, reaffirming a shared commitment to the ideals and values enshrined in the Constitution of India.
At the Permanent Mission of India (PMI) to the United Nations, the mission reaffirmed its commitment to the “ideals, principles and values” of the Constitution of India, which came into effect 76 years ago on this day.
Permanent Representative Ambassador P. Harish unfurled the tricolor as participants attended the event with an “overwhelming sense” of “pride and patriotism,” according to the mission.
On the occasion, US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio extended his congratulations to the people of India.
“The United States and India share a historic bond,” he said. “From our close cooperation on defense, energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies to our multi-layered engagement through the Quad, the U.S.-India relationship delivers real results for our two countries and for the IndoPacific region. I look forward to working together to advance our shared objectives in the year ahead.”
-- South Asian Herald
Krishna and Lakshmi Vavilala were honorees
houston: The 1st Inaugural MLK Grande Unity Gala and MLK Unity Parade marked a powerful and inspiring moment in history, uniting people from all walks of life to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his vision of equality, justice, and togetherness.
These landmark events brought together the introduction of the organization’s scholarship program and creating the “Krishna and Lakshmi Vavilala Scholarship”.
Dr. Charles Stamps-CEO of MLK Grande Parade, Dr. Lynette Reddix-Founder of No Sister Left Behind, and Mr. Krishna Vavilala-Founder Chairman of the Foundation for India Studies (FIS) are respected community leaders. They joined together to create scholarships for some Texas Southern University students and students in the India Studies program.
Demonstrating unity in action, Dr. Charles Stamps, Krishna Vavilala , and Dr. Lynette Reddix stood together as symbols of leadership, cultural impact, and social responsibility. Their presence highlighted the importance of collaboration across industries, communities, and generations to foster meaningful educational change.
Adding to the powerful message of inclusivity, the leaders joined at the MLK Unity Parade where Mr. Krishna Vavilala “MLK Living the Dream” Honoree rode in a horse drawn carriage accompanied by his wife Mrs. Lakshmi Vavilala. As we continue to engaging in meaningful dialogue about unity beyond race, creed, culture, or background, Together, we emphasized that regardless of differences, humanity is strongest when standing as one people, united in purpose and compassion.
The MLK Unity Parade served not only as a celebration but also as a call to action—encouraging communities worldwide to embrace diversity, uplift one another, and continue building bridges of understanding and respect.
This historic inaugural Gala event has set the foundation for an annual tradition dedicated to unity, peace, and the shared belief that together, we are stronger.
Accepting the award, Mr. Vavilala said, the bridge between the Indian community and the Black community is not a new one. It was already built decades ago when Dr. King looked to the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi to find the power of non-violence. He said, his organization, Foundation for India Studies routinely participated in MLK Parades in order to strengthen that bridge and invitedothers to do the same.
Mr. Vavilala added, we share more than just a city or neighborhood; we share the same values, the same love for family, and the same dream of a world where our children are judged only by their character and competence, not the color of their skin.
He added, my honor today belongs to everyone who chose conversation over silence and connection over comfort and let us continue to weave this “garment of destiny” together”.
houston: Founded with a vision to nurture the holistic development of the child, DAV Montessori & Elementary School (DAVMES) has, for 25 years, been a cornerstone of academic excellence, values-based education, and community leadership. Grounded in time-honored Montessori principles and strengthened by a rigorous elementary curriculum, the school has shaped generations of confident, compassionate, and curious learners prepared to succeed in a global society.
More than an educational institution, DAVMES is a community that honors tradition while embracing innovation. Its approach encourages intellectual inquiry alongside character development, emphasizing integrity, service, and a lifelong love for learning. Over the past quarter-century, these principles have remained central to the school’s mission and classroom experience.
DAVMES students continue to earn recognition for their achievements in academics and the arts. The school has received honors at the Houston Rodeo Art Competition, and students regularly excel in Private Schools Interscholastic Association (PSIA) contests, demonstrating strong performance in writing, mathematics, speech, and other disciplines. These accomplishments reflect an environment that fosters creativity, confidence, and healthy competition.
A defining aspect of the DAVMES experience is its intentional blending of the best of both Indian and American educational and cultural traditions. Students are immersed in India’s rich heritage through language, literature, music, art, and celebrations that reflect the diversity of its festivals and regional traditions, while also actively engaging in American cultural practices, holidays, and
civic values.
Core values such as honesty, respect, empathy, responsibility, and service, drawn from both Indian philosophical traditions and American ideals, are taught in an inclusive and age-appropriate manner. This balanced approach ensures that students develop a strong sense of pride in their Indian roots while also embracing and celebrating the country they live in, preparing them to thrive with cultural confidence, ethical grounding, and global awareness in a pluralistic world.
To mark this milestone, DAV Montessori & Elementary School will host Silver Tapestry, a Silver Jubilee Gala celebrating 25 years of excellence. This black-tie event will take place on February 14, 2026, bringing together alumni, families, educators, and supporters to reflect on the school’s journey, celebrate its present achievements, and look ahead to its future.
Silver Tapestry honors the legacy that built DAVMES and sets the stage for the next chapter of innovation, opportunity, and educational excellence.
Mayor Cole also expressed his sincere appreciation for the Indian community’s continued support, noting that this same group has stood by him from his mayoral election through the current campaign.
The evening concluded with many supporters offering their encouragement, best wishes, and generous donations, underscoring the strong and enduring partnership between Mayor Kevin Cole and the Indian community.
By ira sharDa
(Have you) ever heard of a family of 155 people gathered from all across the globe, across four generations, going on a two week pilgrimage and sightseeing tour of a state?
My friends hadn’t, my dad’s colleagues hadn’t, but my mum had; it was her blood that linked me to the Pallod Pariwar as a granddaughter, niece and older sister.
Our tradition of going on these family trips together to visit The Char Dhams was forged by the cherished Raj Gopalji Pallod (his genuine/insightful advice and heart-felt words were treasured by all generations), him being one of my five great grandfathers; however, the journey was first initiated by Padma Gattani to fulfill a promise of going to Badrinath by her brother, my maternal grandfather, the late Jaiprakash Palload. Since then, these trips have spanned all over India from Jagannath Puri in the North East, to Rameshwaram in Kerala. They have been continued through the advice and experience provided by my mother’s beloved uncles: Kamalji, Raviji and Vijayji and kept modern and lively with the assistance of two of my many Mamajis, Kunj and Ansh. It was my per Nanaji’s vision, to connect our personas and hearts like a handmade array of paper chain dolls, to bind us physically, mentally, and emotionally. He made a huge impact in the lives of everyone who was lucky enough to meet him, he was our constant source of support. I was too young and naive to appreciate his genuine advice, but I long for it now, in times of stress and sourness. He touched everybody with his warmth and kindness, and I’m sure that rest of the Pallods would agree that we are, and always will be, ever grateful to have had someone so wise and true in our family. He planted a seed that would continue to grow and help us express our love for one another across the age range of 78 years and four generations.
As children, we were enthralled and entertained when listening to the stories our aunts and uncles told us: about their visits to traditional temples or road-trip excursions to Goa, but most of all, we were hooked to the fascinating tales of our elders: Briju Nanaji’s family values and knowledge of world news, Shankar Nanaji’s faith in Hinduism and the belief in power of Sanskrit chanting, Vallabdasji’s understanding of trade and commerce, Raju Nanaji’s wisdom and eagerness to listen, and Uttam Nanaji’s intellect as well as his generosity and affection towards others. My mother learned valuable life skills of vast variety from each of her elders. This, till date, allows her to express her knowledge, unconditional love, care and concern to those around her.
Four generations of Pallods were
present in this trip: the eldest, most senior member was Purushottam Nanaji of 81 years, and the youngest was aged three, my baby cousin, Shiven. This shows that no matter the age range, connections passed on blood or bonded by marriage remain strong by interacting with another in the form of a game’s night or dancing the inclusive art form of Garba collectively, channeling divine energy and inviting all, regardless of age or skill.
The interconnected web network of a family such as ours, allows us to gain the collective support of one another whether it’s tying us together in celebrations, or sharing our grief and staying brave when we are at our lowest. In both our highs and lows our values of being a joint family are maintained and strengthened. Being exposed to these unique experiences allows for increased learning across one generation to another, allowing our ethics and life principles to be passed down along the family tree.
We began our road trip from the bustling city of Baroda, and soon we were in Ektanagar, standing before the breathtakingly powerful Statue of Unity and eye-softening at the sight of the vivid Valley of Flowers. The rest of the trip was a beautiful amalgam of precious
moments in the form of darshaans and aartis to museum, monument and factory visits which enriched both our spiritual and intellectual understanding, not to mention our emotional growth by discussing our feelings with another.
Our 10 day visit to see Gurjart’s Final Dham was jam packed with temple visits: the queues didn’t feel as long as they would have if family weren’t alongside, waving at each other amongst the crowds helping each other find the sandals that we deposited in the landfill of shoes. Our collective faith in the power above channeled through
pilgrimage, gave us strength and courage to face the individual obstacles in each of our lives.
One evening, when asked in our panel discussion event, one of our latest additions to the family quoted, “I was close to my grandfather, and my fiance was to hers. This allowed us to bond beyond our general base expectations of one another and helped her adjust to my family with ease.”
Another evening, we were given the unique opportunity to learn skills from one another to improve our mindsets, habits and strengthen the values of community ser-
vice and mental wellbeing in our moral compass. Moreover, the youth were enriched by the guidance of the Masajis on the basics of financial literacy, so as to help us adolescents in paving our paths in the vast world of money, stocks and investing. These relationshipbuilding activities create a powerful sense of community amongst us and help us foster shared joy. It was beautiful how the elders showered blessings upon us youth, and we looked at them for inspiration and admiration. The long bus hours translated to antakshari for the boomers, poker for the middleaged, bluff for the teens and roleplay for the kids.
Whether it is through devoting time to visit the auspicious places that help us channel and connect with the divine powers above or celebrating New Year’s Eve with so many loved ones, it is our respected elders who have helped us build this incessant road of love and generosity, in the form of family trips. (This walkway, if it continues to be nurtured, will last forever, thanks to the giving nature of the Pallod family.)
I am, and will be ever grateful to this tightly-knit, loving family that showers blessings and kindness on everyone they meet. Thank you Pallod Pariwar, for giving me the opportunity to saddle along in this beautiful journey, providing our youngsters with fruit for thought and scope to write about - I’ve been on two trips and hope to be a part of more in the future!
My final words for this lengthy, heart-felt and genuine article would be, please be inspired to bond with your brothers and sisters along with other relatives and close friends. This doesn’t need to be carried out in the form of an elaborate, extensively-planned family trip, something as small as sharing meals together, to quote Raghav Masaji’s words, three generations at once, is more than enough to strengthen your family ties and circulate the sense of belonging between one another.
Ira Sharda is a first-year undergraduate student at McMaster University in Canada, pursuing Biomedical Engineering.
By Dr. Viji thiru
PearlanD: The Indian community, proudly hosted a successful fundraising event in support of Mayor Kevin Cole’s campaign for Brazoria County Judge on January 23, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at Magnolia Cajun Comfort Restaurant.
The event was attended by Mayor Kevin Cole, along with his wife and son, friends, family members, and supporters from across the community. Executives of Indian community from different organizations were present, reflecting
broad community engagement. Host committee members made generous contributions, with each family donating $2,000 in support of the campaign.
Sam Kannappan welcomed Mayor Cole and formally initiated the Indian community’s support for his campaign, highlighting the unity and commitment of the community. Dr. S.G. Appan expressed his appreciation for Mayor Cole’s continued support of the Indian community over the years and extended his best wishes for the campaign. Dr. Vaduganathan spearheaded the fundraising
efforts and helped raise approximately $25,000 in contributions. Somarajan Nair collected checks and gave to Mayor Cole.
Mayor Kevin Cole, who announced his candidacy for Brazoria County Judge in October 2025, addressed the gathering and spoke about the responsibilities of the position, explaining why his experience in public service and local leadership makes him well suited for the role. He emphasized his focus on emergency preparedness and his belief that every family in Brazoria County is his responsibility.
FounDer: Dr. K.l. sinDWani
PuBlisher: jaWahar Malhotra
eDitor: PraMoD KulKarni
CorresPonDent: sanChali Basu
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By arChiKa Khurana
Story: Border 2 continues the legacy of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, portraying fierce battles beyond Longewala, including the Battle of Basantar and Operation Chengiz Khan, highlighting courage, sacrifice, and strategic warfare
Review: Border 2 arrives carrying the towering legacy of J.P. Dutta’s 1997 classic Border, a film that defined patriotic war cinema for an entire generation. With such a formidable predecessor, expectations are naturally sky-high.
Director Anurag Singh steps into this daunting space with confidence, crafting a sequel that clearly understands the emotional soul of the original while upgrading its scale, spectacle, and storytelling for contemporary audiences.
While Border 2 may not recreate the once-in-a-generation impact of its predecessor, it succeeds as an emotionally charged and crowdpleasing war epic that largely delivers on its promise. Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the film ambitiously unfolds across three fronts—land, air, and sea.
This multi-layered narrative structure gives Border 2 a broader cinematic canvas and a strong sense of national scale. Hoshiyar Singh (Varun Dhawan) represents the Indian Army on the ground, Nirmaljit Singh (Diljit Dosanjh) commands the skies as a fearless Indian Air Force pilot, while Mahendra Rawat (Ahan Shetty) leads naval operations in the Arabian Sea. Binding these three men is their mentor, Fateh Singh (Sunny Deol), now a legendary officer commanding troops at the border.
As coordinated enemy attacks threaten the nation from all directions, the story steadily builds toward an urgent call for leadership, courage, and sacrifice. Where Border 2 truly succeeds is in capturing its emotional undercurrents, even though its action sequences do not always match the gritty believability of the original. Thankfully,
the film does not rely solely on battlefield spectacle. It takes time to invest in themes of brotherhood, duty, and sacrifice. The moments of camaraderie among soldiers, the quiet exchanges before combat, and the emotional toll on families back home lend the film surprising warmth. These softer beats prevent Border 2 from becoming a hollow action extravaganza and instead ground it in genuine human stakes. From thunderous tank warfare and brutal hand-to-hand combat to sweeping aerial dogfights and naval encounters, the battle sequences are staged with impressive technical finesse. The editing remains largely sharp, ensuring the action feels intense without descending into visual chaos. The aerial combat sequences featuring Diljit Dosanjh stand out as some
of the film’s most visually exhilarating moments, reaffirming Bollywood’s growing ability to mount large-scale war spectacles
The dialogues are unapologetically loud, provocative, and clearly designed for mass appeal. Lines such as “Tum ek maroge toh hazaar aayenge” are tailor-made for whistle-worthy reactions. While the dialogue occasionally borders on excess and subtlety is rarely its goal, it aligns perfectly with the film’s old-school patriotic tone and high-voltage energy. Sunny Deol emerges as the film’s undisputed powerhouse. His screen presence remains formidable, and his thunderous delivery evokes nostalgia for fans of the original Border. His intensity feels almost unreal, with many of the film’s most electrifying moments belonging entirely to him. -- ToI
Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.
Send us the correct answer before February 3, 2026. Email us at indoamericannews@yahoo.com. Please send us your solved Sudoku for your name to be published.
Sanchali Basu, Krishna R. Vuddagiri, Prabha Barvalia, Jawahar Khandheria, Mohit Mittal, Prabha Narumanchi, Arup Gupta, Yudhveer Bagga, Naveen Garg, Bhumija Mittal, Taranjit Singh, Debomitra Bose, Nihira Ghanta, Srikanth Madhavan, Harsh Malkan, Soumya Srikanth, Rajesh Pradbhu
