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www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know Rana Samaj USA Hosts Valentine’s Day Celebration In New Jersey R ana Samaj USA hosted a Valentine’s Day celebra- tion at Royal Albert Palace, bringing together members, friends and families for an evening focused on love, friendship and community. The program opened with Ganesh Stuti, fol- lowed by introductions of committee members by Presi- dent Bharatbhai Rana. He recognized Kalpesh V. Rana, first vice president; Dharmesh Rana, second vice presi- dent; Bhupendra Rana, treasurer; Hema Rana, secretary; and board of trustees members Raj Rana and Hemant Rana. Invited guests and sponsors included Anandbhai Patel, CEO and owner of a 132-store Dunkin’ franchise; Vipul Amin, CEO and owner of Param Health Care and Param Food; Dr. Jayesh Patel; and Subway franchise owners Shila and Mahesh Dubal. Speakers congratulated the executive committee for its work and praised the organi- zation’s community activities. The event featured a dinner, music and dancing, including traditional garba and couples dances. Attend- ees were welcomed with a red-carpet entrance and had access to a photo booth. “We are thrilled to have provided a memorable eve- ning for our members and guests,” said Bharat Rana, president of Rana Samaj USA. “Our community is built on love, respect and togetherness, and this celebration reflected those values.” Organizers said the event marked the first time the organization hosted a program at Royal Albert Palace, a banquet hall in Fords. Rana Samaj USA said it plans to continue hosting events that foster community connections and celebrate cultural heritage. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:COURTESY OF DS PHOTOS ANDVIDEOS From left, Dr. Jayesh Patel, Vipul Amin, Anand Patel, Vice President Kalpesh Rana and Board of Trustees member Raj Rana pose for a photo at the Rana Samaj USA Valentine’s Day celebration. A group of participants pose for a photo during the Rana Samaj USA Valentine’s Day celebration at Royal Albert Palace. Shivleela Sets Milestone For Indian Cultural Theater In Edison, New Jersey A Broadway-style dance drama celebrating the story of Lord Shiva drew a packed audience and marked a milestone for Indian cultural theater in the United States. “Shivleela,” directed and choreographed by U.S.- based artist Varsha Naik, was presented by Navrang Dance Academy at J.P. Stevens High School. Orga- nizers said more than 709 audience members attended the produc- tion, which also welcomed special guests from across the tri-state area. The large-scale theatrical performance brought together 70 artists and volunteers, totaling 108 contributors. The produc- tion blended classical Indian themes with Broadway-inspired staging, using dance and drama to depict the powerful story- telling of Lord Shiva. Naik, founder and director of Navrang Dance Academy, led the ambitious pro- duction, which marked the academy’s first grand home presentation in its 13- year history of promoting Indian culture through storytelling and dance. Lighting and sound design played a central role in the performance. Techni- cal direction by Shrikant Gavas elevated the show’s visual and auditory elements, contributing to what organizers described as a grand theatrical experience. Among the evening’s special guests was Edison Township Mayor Sam Joshi, who praised the production and its cultural impact. “Varsha Naik is keeping Indian culture alive in the USA by creating meaningful dramas in the form of storytelling and helping the community stay connected to their roots,” Joshi said in a statement. A highlight of the evening was the portrayal of Mahadev by Mumbai-based dancer and choreographer Sandip Soparrkar, whose performance brought depth and commanding stage presence to the role. The production was supported by students and artists of Navrang Dance Academy. Key supporters included Raj Pandya of the Pandya Foundation and Vaidehi Dongre Pandya, who described “Shivleela” as a phenomenal drama and expressed interest in supporting future productions showcasing Lord Shi- va and Indian cultural heritage. Additional support came from Surendra Singh and Anu Kumari of Suhag Jewelers. Community part- ners and supporting organizations in- cluded S N Tours and Travels, A2Z Enter- tainment, Cultivate Talent – Bhajan Club- bing, UPFNA, Guru Ji Ka Mandir, Sohani- ka, Mukesh Modi, World Peace Harmony, BCB Bank, Valam Foods, Samosa Factory, Mejwani, Sai Cat Caterers, Patel Brothers, Simran Aahuja, Sewa International, Menlo Park Leo Club and AIM Finances. Organizers said the overwhelming response has encouraged the team to plan performances in additional cities across the United States, continuing their mission of celebrating Indian heritage through large-scale stage productions. By a StaffWriter From left: Surendra Singh; Sam Joshi, mayor of Edison Township; Varsha Naik; and others recognize young participants on stage. Sandip Soparrkar performs on stage during the presentation of “Shivleela.” PHOTOS:ORGANIZERS 9 CITY VIEWS February 27, 2026