Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 4 COVER STORY October 10, 2025 Women’s Organization Manavi Celebrates 40th Anniversary At Fundraising Gala In NJ N ew Jersey-based women’s organization Manavi, the oldest in the country founded with a mission to counter violence against women of South Asian descent, held its 40th annual fundraising gala at The Marigold in Somerset, NJ, September 18, 2025. It was a sold-out gala attracting sponsors, donors, dignitaries and community members, in what Navneet Bhalla, executive director of Manavi, described as a “suc- cessful and memorable” event. The Keynote Speaker was Reshma Saujani, founder of GirlsWho Code and Moms First. Those honored at the gala were Lopa Banerjee, Dr. Judith Spitz, and Kiran Handa Gaudioso. The speakers dwelt on the initiatives undertaken by them to uplift communities. The story of a survivor of violence was shared at the event. Bhalla thanked Manavi’s board, Advisory board, staff, volunteers and the gala committee “for all your hard work and dedication to Manavi.” She went on to say, “We would not be able to do this work without the support from our community. Your support makes a meaningful difference in the lives of many survivors.” Founded in 1985, the organization says it uses “a survivor-centered approach” provides “culturally-specific and linguistically appropriate services” and that its staff and volunteers are bilingual, speaking more than 14 dif- ferent South Asian languages. The organization’s fundraiser is still going on and do- nations can be made by visiting Manavi.org. By a StaffWriter PHOTO:CourtesyManavi Scenes from Manavi’s sold-out fundraising gala held in Somerset, NJ September 18, 2025. IACFNJ Hosts Two Days Of Joyous Navratri Garba Celebration T he Indo-American Cultural Foundation of Central Jersey (IACFNJ) hosted Navratri Garba celebra- tions on September 20 and 27, 2025, at Monroe Township HighSchool in Middlesex County. The festival attracted local communities of Monroe, South and North Brunswick, Franklin Park, Somerset, Princeton, Hightstown, Princeton Junction, East Bruns- wick, Robbinsville, and East andWestWindsor, a press release from organizers said. Participants of all ages filled the dance floor with traditional Garba, Dandiya-Raas, and Sanedo, showcas- ing energetic dance styles, colorful costumes, and joyful community spirit. Navratri, one of the most important Hindu festivals, marks nine nights of devotion to Goddess Durga, Lak- shmi, and Saraswati. Devotees believe Goddess Durga destroys negative tendencies, Goddess Lakshmi inspires divine qualities, and Goddess Saraswati bestows true knowledge. The festival culminates on the tenth day, Vi- jaya Dashami, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Each evening’s festivities began with traditional Garba, Aarti, and prayers to Goddess Amba Maa, followed by prasad for all attendees. The second round of Garba and Raas, culminating in a lively Sanedo by Mahesh Mehta and their live band. The center stage, featuring Amba Maa’s statue in a tra- ditional temple setting, recreated the festive atmosphere reminiscent of celebrations in India. Local business owners, community leaders, and public officials, came to the event to show their support. The celebration was made possible by the support of local businesses and grand sponsor Royal Basmati Rice – LT Foods and Daawat Basmati Rice, who also sponsored two prizes for the Best Dress and Best Dance. On Saturday, September 27, 2025, Kaushik Vyas and Shruti Shah from LT Foods presented the prizes to the winners. The IACFNJ Executive Committee, Trustees, volun- teers, and community members, were credited for their efforts in making the festival a success, the organization said. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS: IACFNJ Scenes from the IACFNJ Navratri Garba held September 20 and 27, 2025, in Monroe Township, NJ. Stage decorated in traditional style with Amba Maa statue at the Navratri Garba celebrations hosted by IACFNJ..