Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 5 CITY VIEWS May 1, 2026 Indo-American Pharmaceuticals Society Holds Successful Annual Forum In New Jersey T he Indo-American Pharmaceuticals So- ciety (IAPS), a professional organization founded in 1987, representing more than 700 members of Indian origin in North America, held its Annual Forum April 25, 2026, in Plainfield, New Jersey. The organization is currently led by President Kiran Dalal and Chairman Raj Shah and their teammembers who are in charge of various committees which cover sponsorship, educa- tion, information technology, etc. Among the special guests was India’s Consul Piyush Singh who spoke in his address to the gathering of industry leaders, about strengthen- ing US-India collaboration in the pharmaceuti- cal sector. Singh also spoke about the newly- launched India-USA Trade Facilitation Portal and encouraged those present to jolin and leverage it for deeper business partnerships. According to IAPS, the pharmaceutical sector is both fast-paced and demanding, and to go forward in today’s business world, one must network and have access to a variety of busi- ness opportunities. According to its website, IAPS is the largest ethnic professional society of its kind promot- ing socio-professional objectives. The main aim of IAPS “is to bring together all pharmacy professionals including retail, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and employees in pharmaceu- tical research, industries and distribution in order to improve and to encourage high profes- sional and ethical level,” it says. By a StaffWriter Top left, Indian Consul Piyush Singh addressing the IAPS Annual Forum April 25, 2026. Top right, executive committee members of IAPS and others at the Forum; Bottom left, recognitions being awarded at the Forum; Bottom right, a section of the audience. PHOTOS:X.COM @INDIAINNEWYORK Festival Of Colors Brings Community Together At Holi 2026 Celebration In Passaic Park T he vibrant spirit of Holi, the tra- ditional Indian Festival of Colors, came alive at Passaic Park as members of the Indian American community and local leaders gathered for a joyful celebration hosted by Rana Samaj USA. Organized under the leadership of Pres- ident Bharat Rana, the Holi 2026 event drew families, children and community members from across the region, celebrat- ing the arrival of spring with music, colors and cultural pride. Holi, widely known as the Festival of Colors, marks the end of winter and the beginning of a new season filled with renewal, energy and hope. Addressing attendees, Rana highlighted the deeper meaning of the festival, describing it as a time for reconciliation and unity. “Holi is more than just colors,” he said. “It is a social reset where we let go of past differences, forgive one another and begin again with joy and positivity.” The celebration also reflected the rich cultural and spiritual roots of the festival. Organizers shared the story of Prahlad and Holika, symbolizing the triumph of devotion and truth over evil, as well as the playful traditions of Radha and Krishna, whose celebration of colors represents love beyond boundaries and differences. As participants joyfully applied gulal to one another, the message of equality and togetherness was clearly visible. For Rana Samaj USA, the annual Holi gathering serves not only as a festive oc- casion but also as a cultural bridge for the next generation. “It is important for our children growing up in America to un- derstand and experience our traditions,” Rana noted. “At the same time, we are proud to share this celebration with our neighbors and the broader community.” The event was attended by several prominent local leaders, reflecting strong community engagement and support. Among those present were Congresswom- an Nellie Pou, New Jersey State Assem- blywoman Rosy Bagolie, Passaic County Commissioner Orlando Cruz, Clifton City Councilman Tony Latona, and Clifton City Council candidate Dr. Assad Mujtaba, who joined in the festivities and interacted with attendees. Community partnerships also played a key role in the success of the event. Spon- sor Bina Shah of Honest Restaurant in Clifton was recognized for her support in making the celebration possible. With music, dancing and bursts of bright colors filling the park, the Holi 2026 celebration stood as a testament to the values of faith, love and unity. As partici- pants left covered in color and smiles, the festival once again reinforced its timeless message — that in celebration, commu- nity and humanity come together as one. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:BHARAT RANA Congresswoman Nellie Pou; New Jersey State Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie; Passaic County Commissioner Orlando Cruz; Clifton City Councilman Tony Latona (in group photo); and Clifton City Council candidate Dr. Assad Mujtaba at the Holi 2026 celebration in Passaic Park. Elected officials and community leaders join members of Rana Samaj USA for a group photo during the Holi 2026 Festival of Colors celebration at Passaic Park, Passaic, NJ.