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www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know Sivagiri Foundation Of Washington, D.C. Celebrates Onam & Chathayam 2025 T he Sivagiri Foundation ofWash- ington DC (SFWDC), a community organization of Sree Narayana Guru devotees inWashington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia, recently celebrated Onam and Chathayam 2025 at the Potomac Community Center in Mary- land. The event was organized to pass on the teachings and vision of Sree Narayana Guru to the younger generation, a Sept. 6, press release from the organization said.. The celebration commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and reci- tation of Daivadasakam. This was followed by a traditional, sumptuous Onam Sadhya (feast), representing Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. President of SFWDC Ajayakumar Kesavan, delivered the welcome address. Special greetings were shared by Sunil Kumar Krishnan, a representative of the Sree Narayana Association of NewYork, and Mohankumar Arumugham, chairman of theWorld Malayalee Council—Wash- ington DC Province (DMV). Prayers being offered at the recent Sivagiri Foundation celebration of Onam and Chathayam in greaterWashington, D.C. A highlight of the evening was the kickoff ceremony for the 2025 Florida Convention, held under the auspices of the Federation of Sree Narayana Associa- tions of North America (FSNONA). Binoob Sreedharan, president of FSNONA, spoke about the significance of the upcoming convention and accepted the first registra- tion from SFWDC member Peethambaran Thaivalappil. Cultural programs that reflected the spirit, traditions, and diversity of Kerala were part of the evening. The event con- cluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ambika Kumar, secretary of SFWDC. Organizers emphasized that events like these not only preserve the cultural legacy of Kerala but also strengthen community bonds across generations in the United States. For more information about the Sivagiri Foundation ofWashington DC and its upcoming activities, please visit https:// sfwdc.org By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:CourtesySivagiri Foundation Organizers and attendees at the recent celebration of Onam and Chathayam by the Sivagiri Foundation of Washington, D.C. A cultural program was part of the Sivagiri Foundation’s celebration of Onam and Chathayam, recently in greater Washington, D.C. Prayers being offered at the recent Sivagiri Foundation celebration of Onam and Chathayam in greater Washington, D.C. Wharton Welcomes Manish Varma As Executive In Residence T heWharton AI & Analytics Initiative (WAIAI) has proudly welcomed Manish Varma as its newest Executive in Residence, a role reserved for industry leaders who bridge academia and global business with vision and impact. Manish Varma is a globally recognized technology executive who has delivered transformative AI and digital strategies at scale across the life sciences sector. His work has consistently unlocked AI-driven innovation while creating long-term organizational value. With an MBA from TheWharton School and a BTech from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, he brings together world-class educa- tion with a deep passion for technology, positioning himself as a unique bridge between academic research and global industry. His mission to accelerate the next generation of AI innovation resonates strongly with India’s push to establish itself as a leader in the global AI economy. As Executive in Residence, Manish joins an elite group of leaders who collabo- rate withWharton faculty on AI thought leadership, mentor students by sharing lessons from decades of international experience, participate as speakers at flagship events, and serve as judges in AI competitions shaping the future of busi- ness. His appointment provides him with a platform to influence not only future corporate leaders but also the global di- rection of AI adoption in business. What makes his story even more inspir- ing is his proud roots in Bihar and his journey from a humble background in Patna to IIT Kanpur, Wharton, and now to global boardrooms. For young profession- als in the diaspora, his achievements serve as a powerful example of what talent, perseverance, and education can achieve. For the Indian American community, particularly those from Bihar, his suc- cess is not only a personal milestone but also a reminder of the growing influence of leaders from the region on the world stage, spanning technology, business, and community service. Alok Kumar, Chairman of Bihar Foundation USA, hailed the announce- ment, saying, “This is wonderful news for the Indian American community. When industry leaders of Manish Varma’s caliber engage in the field of education, it not only creates new opportunities but also inspires the next generation to dream big- ger and achieve more.” By a StaffWriter PHOTO:Alok Kumar Manish Varma 7 CITY VIEWS September 12, 2025