Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 6 CITY VIEWS August 29, 2025 CRY Walk 2025 Towards A Better Tomorrow For Thousands Of Children C RY, Child Rights and You America (CRY America), a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization, has launched its annual CRYWalk 2025 series across multiple U.S. cities. The walk is a nationwide initiative designed to raise awareness and support for under- privileged children who are denied the basic rights to live, learn, grow, and play. The CRYWalk series is being organized in cities including Los Angeles, Seattle, New Jersey, Boston, Houston, and San Diego, among others, spanning frommid- July through mid-November. Each event features a 5K walk in community parks or along scenic trails, accompanied by fun activities for students and snacks for par- ticipants, making it a family-friendly event with a meaningful cause. Speaking about the initiative, Shefali Sunderlal, President of CRY America, urged communities to participate whole- heartedly. “We invite everyone—children, parents, and grandparents—to join our local city walks to ensure that underprivi- leged children realize their dreams. If we all come together and address children’s issues with a sense of urgency, then no child will remain illiterate, malnourished, or exploited,” she said. The campaign has drawn strong sup- port from volunteers and donors across the country. “Volunteering with CRY has been one of the most meaningful experi- ences of my life. I truly believe each of us, volunteers and donors, has the power to make a difference, and together, we can help children thrive,” shared Manisha Dahiya, a CRY America volunteer. Organizers expressed their gratitude to event sponsors, fundraisers, walkers, do- nors, and volunteers for their dedication in being the bridge between lost dreams and new beginnings for thousands of children. Those interested in joining CRYWalk 2025 in their city, or in becoming a fund- raiser or sponsor, can register at events. cryamerica.org or email volunteers@ cryamerica.org for more information. By a StaffWriter PHOTO:CRY America Participants gather in high spirits during the CRY Walk 2024, an annual event supporting underprivileged children across the U.S. Organizer Satish Mullick along with singer Dr. Sangita Nerurkar, musicians, sponsors, and dignitaries. Dr. Sangita Nerurkar being honored with a flower bouquet by Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh. Also seen in the photo are Dr. Naniv Mehta and Anoop Bhargava and the musicians. Raag Ras – A Soulful Evening of Classical-Based Light Music T he music-loving community of New Jersey came together for a mesmerizing evening of classical-based light music as “Raag Ras Anubhuti” featuring the renowned vocalist Dr. Sangita Nerurkar was presented at the ITV Gold Auditorium in Edison. The event, organized under the able leadership of Satish Mullick, turned out to be a houseful success with an audience that was spellbound from start to finish. Dr. Sangita Nerurkar’s soulful renditions, deeply rooted in Indian classical traditions yet appeal- ing to light music lovers, created an enchanting atmosphere. She was ably accompanied by talented musicians – Keval Kavle on Harmonium, Hemkalyan Bapat on Tabla, and the seamless sound engineering of Rajan Bhai. The evening was beautifully emceed by Anima Johari and Nandini S. Rai, who kept the program flowing with grace and warmth. The event was graced by several dignitaries, includ- ing Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Chairman of ITV Gold and Parikh Worldwide Media, who praised the initiative and reaf- firmed his commitment to supporting arts and cultural programs in the diaspora. He also empha- sized the importance of such platforms in empow- ering and connecting the second generation to their cultural roots. Another special guest, Dr. Navin Mehta, was warmly recognized by the organizers for his contri- butions to the community. The program was made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors: • Diamond Sponsors: Dr. Navin Mehta, ITV Gold, ParikhWorldwide Media • Grand Sponsors: Dr. Shankaryler, Dr. Anjum Swaroop, Dr. Anand Swaroop • Special Sponsors: Pandita-Guru Archana Jogle- kar and Mahila Kavya Manch – NJ (South) With enthusiastic applause and heartfelt appre- ciation from the audience, “Raag Ras” proved once again that the love for Indian classical and light mu- sic thrives in the diaspora, bringing together art, culture, and community under one roof. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS: ITV GOLD Dr. Sangita Nerurkar (center) enthralling the audience with her Hindustani classical vocals, accompanied by Hemkalyan Bapat on Tabla,on the left and Keval Kavle on Harmonium on the right.