Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 12 CITY VIEWS August 29, 2025 Rana Samaj Hosts Indian Flag Raising At Passaic City Hall T he Rana Samaj of USA celebrated India’s 79th Independence Day with a grand flag-raising ceremony at Passaic City Hall. The event, held on Sunday, August 23, was at- tended by distinguished guests including Passaic Mayor Hector Lora, Councilman Jose Garcia, Commissioner of the Board of Education Christina Scarth, Commis- sioners Maryan Kypers and Abril Bar- rales, Police Chief Mr. Gentile, Past FIA President Anandbhai Patel, and Attorney at Law Amy Paterson, along with several political, social, and community leaders. More than 150 members of Rana Samaj joined the celebration, showcasing unity and pride for both India and their adopted homeland. The program opened with a Shanti Path sung by girls from the Swami- narayan Temple, followed by a warm welcome address from President Bharat Rana, who expressed gratitude to all the invited dignitaries. He then introduced his executive committee, including Vice Presidents Kalpesh Rana and Dharmesh Rana, Treasurer Bhupendra Rana, and Secretary Hema Rana, thanking them for their continued dedication and support throughout the year. Patriotic speeches were delivered, reflecting on the signifi- cance of India’s independence, after which the guests proceeded with the official flag- raising ceremony. The Indian and American national an- thems were sung with pride, symbolizing the strong bond between the world’s two largest democracies. The crowd enthusias- tically chanted “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” as the Indian tricolor soared high. Mayor Hector Lora, who began his remarks with the praise of Shri Krishna and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, commended the Indian community for passing on values of faith, culture, and patriotism to future generations. He also thanked the Rana Samaj and the Indian American commu- nity, calling them one of the city’s greatest assets. Attorney Amy Paterson, draped in a saffron sari, started her address with “Jai Swaminarayan, Jai Shri Krishna, Jai Hind” and shared that she visits India every year for spiritual renewal. Police Officer Jigar Rana of the Rana community was specially honored during the event, being promoted to the rank of Sergeant by the City Commissioner as part of the Inde- pendence Day celebrations. This recogni- tion was met with pride and joy by the entire community. The program included cultural perfor- mances, including dances by children, a vibrant parade by women members of the community, and a Hindi address by Neena Jain. The celebrations concluded with re- freshments featuring samosas, brownies, cookies, coffee, and donuts, adding to the festive spirit of the day. The Rana Samaj leadership empha- sized the importance of staying organized as a community in America, noting that collective strength allows them to build strong relations with American admin- istration officials. President Bharat Rana extended heartfelt gratitude to all digni- taries, guests, and members of the Rana Samaj for making the celebration memo- rable. By a StaffWriter PHOTO:CRY America The Indian flag being raised proudly at Passaic City Hall with community members and officials in attendance. Dignitaries and community leaders at the podium during the Independence Day celebrations at Passaic City Hall. Audience members, dressed in festive tricolor attire, enjoying the flag-raising ceremony. Krishnaarpitayen Lecture Brings Spiritual Insights On Janmashtami In New Jersey On this evening, they explored the theme of “Krish- naarpitayen”, focusing on individuals and symbols through whom Lord Krishna revealed his divine pow- ers and teachings. Narratives of the River Yamuna, the Gopikas, the flute, Draupadi, Mother Yashoda, Kunti, and Radha were woven together with deep spiritual insights. The speakers emphasized the philosophy that true joy lies not in possession but in the realization of belonging- ness — expressed through the Sanskrit phrase “Twam Mamev, AhamTwamev” (You are mine, and I am forever yours). The interactive session allowed the audience to par- ticipate, ask questions, and reflect on Krishna’s life and teachings. Adding a poetic dimension, host Anoop Bhar- gava recited a poem from Dharamvir Bharti’s celebrated work “Kanupriya”, while Nandini Rai shared her own self- composed poem inspired by Krishna’s message. The evening concluded with tea and snacks, leaving attendees spiritually enriched and fulfilled. The program was another testament to Jhilmil-USA’s mission of foster- ing cultural connections and bringing the essence of Indian traditions to the diaspora community in America. -Special to Desi Talk - Continued From Page 10