Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 4 CITY VIEWS August 8, 2025 South Asian Coalition Makes History With $100,000 Fundraiser For Jack Ciattarelli In New Jersey I n a landmark event for the South Asian community’s political engagement in New Jersey, the South Asian Coali- tion for Jack Ciattarelli hosted a grand fundraiser that raised over $100,000 in support of the gubernatorial candidate. The gathering, held at the residence of community leader Mahender Musuku, marked a historic night of unity, influence, and political recognition. The event opened with welcoming remarks by Dharmesh Patel, Executive Director of the South Asian Coalition, fol- lowed by a heartfelt address from Chair- man Sridhar Chillara. Chillara praised host Mahender Musuku for creating a warm atmosphere and highlighted Jack Ciattarelli’s deep engagement with New Jersey’s diverse communities. “Jack is not only campaigning—he’s connecting,” Chillara stated. “He listens, he acts, and he has the experience to fix New Jersey’s broken systems.” Governor candidate Jack Ciattarelli, a CPA and MBA with a background as a successful CEO, addressed the attendees with a powerful vision to reform New Jersey’s tax structure, restore law and order, improve education, and eliminate bureaucratic red tape that burdens small businesses. “The South Asian community plays an incredibly important role in the future of our state,” Ciattarelli said. “Even a few thousand votes can decide this election.” The most significant moment of the evening came when Ciattarelli officially recognized the gathering’s organizing body as the “one and only official South Asian Coalition” supporting his campaign in the state—a declaration that drew jubilant celebration from attendees and cemented the coalition’s special status. The event also recognized a dynamic host committee of over 25 leaders and community advocates, including Sridhar Chillara, Thomas Allen, Rathnakar Patlola, Anna Reddy, and many others who con- tributed to the campaign’s momentum. The evening was filled with networking, cultural pride, and a strong sense of politi- cal purpose. Mahender Musuku, in a closing state- ment, proudly announced that the coali- tion had crossed the $100,000 fundraising milestone. He called for continued action: “Let’s now aim to deliver 100,000 South Asian votes for Jack Ciattarelli across New Jersey. That’s how we make history.” Subramanyam Osuru, IT and Outreach Co-Director, delivered the vote of thanks, highlighting the team effort and support from attendees, media, and vendors. Sridhar Chillara closed the evening with a passionate call to organize grassroots efforts, backyard meetings, and temple outreach, urging: “Let’s bring our commu- nity to the polls and elect Jack as our next Governor.” Those interested in joining the official coalition can contact: facebook.com/SouthAsians4Jack sridhar@jack4nj.co By a StaffWriter Indian Overseas Congress USA Hosts Meet & Greet With Rajasthan Assembly Leaders T he Indian Overseas Congress USA (IOC USA) hosted a Meet & Greet event on August 1, 2025 in New York attended by members of the Indian diaspora and political leaders from India’s Rajasthan State Assembly, in a bid to foster dialogue on key socio-political issues and strengthening ties between overseas Indians and their homeland. Among the high-profile guests were Tika Ram Jully, leader of the Opposition, Rajasthan Assembly; Ramkesh Meena, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Rajast- han Assembly; and Aamin Kagji, Member of Legislature, Rajasthan Assembly, a press release from organizers said. The Rajasthani leaders shared insights on the current political landscape in Rajasthan, the challenges ahead, and the pivotal role of overseas Indians in sup- porting democratic values. The event was organized by Mohin- der Singh, President, IOC USA, Pradeep Samala, Working President, North East Zone, IOC USA, John Joseph, Senior Vice Presi- dent, IOC USA, Baldav Singh Randhawa, Vice President, IOC USA, Dr. Joshua Jayasingh, Treasurer, IOC USA, Imran Pasha, Presi- dent, NewYork Chapter, IOC USA, Leela Maret, former President, Kerala Chap- ter, IOC USA. numbers, the press release. The visiting dignitaries expressed their appreciation to the attendees for their active participation and commended IOC USA for organiz- ing such a meaningful interaction that strengthens the bridge between India and its global diaspora, organizers said in the press release. By a StaffWriter PHOTO: IOC-USA Rajasthan State Assembly members meet diaspora community at Meet & Greet hosted by IOC-USA in New York August 1, 2025. PHOTOS:South Asian Coalition A strong show of unity and support: South Asian community leaders join gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli for a commemorative photo. Jack Ciattarelli addresses South Asian leaders and supporters during his keynote remarks at the official fundraiser.