Jewels of India
Leading Indo-American Personalities Vol-II
This book is a celebration of victory over struggles, over endeavors. It is an ode to grit and valor of the most precious jewels of Indo-Americans bonded together with the love for their motherland. Our 50th coffee-table book is based on the life odysseys of 75 families Indo-American families. It showcases how today’s reckoned names earned their labels with a megre start by themselves and their forefathers.
India is known for its unity in diversity, a fact enhanced by this book and this event today – we are around 80 families here, from 13 Indian states settled in 13 US states. Taking note of the remarkable contributions of the two countries, this book unveils the achievements of Indo- Americans, in India, the US, and other parts of the globe, in their respective fields. Their backbreaking endeavors and passion have not only made their lives prosperous but their land of work and birth proud. Highly inspiring and motivating, the stories of each one herein will certainly change the lives of someone, somewhere.
It has been a proud journey of 23 years that Maneesh Media has successfully trailed through with its 50 publications, from the Rangilo Rajasthan in 2000 which was nothing but a quick guide book into Rajasthan to the Jewels of India – Leading Indo-American Personalities today which features the most eminent of the Indian-American diaspora, endorsement by eminent dignitaries like the Presidents of the US, Kenya, and India besides the Prime Ministers of India, Uganda, and Mauritius to name a few is an immense morale booster.
Adding to our feather is to feature YOU – you who has put in your heart, mind, efforts to create your kind of success. You and your family are our pride, the real ambassador of India who are as Indian as any resident Indian!
We, at Maneesh Media, keep exploring and expanding further, learning lessons with every step they take. Each project we undertake adds a new story of success! With every new success story, we take a moment to thank every featured family who has helped us reach here.
People Inside The Book
Dr Amarjit Singh Marwah
Dental Surgeon Founder, Sharing, Caring & Service Foundation Malibu, California
How many Indians have Hollywood streets and squares named after them? This dentist has patients in the likes of George Clooney, Elizabeth Taylor, Sidney Poitier, Muhammad Ali… Among the first few Indians in the US, he has supported many Indian immigrants. He has often contributed toward education and the development of Punjab villages. With a long list of laurels including Good will Ambassador of India Award more than once, he is in-reach to whoever wants to meet him.
Ajaypal Singh Banga
Chairperson, International Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman, General Atlantic New York City, New York
He brought in the revolutionary plastic money concept. A Padma Shri awardee, a global leader in banking management, the fourth Most Powerful Indian by The Economic Times and among the Top 50 Business Leaders of the World by the Fortune, he has led the MasterCard team to create a global buzz. He was the Chairman of the US-India Business Council (USIBC) representing more than 300 of the largest international companies investing in India.
Anil Kumar Monga
Founder & CEO, Victory International LLC, Eatontown, New Jersey
He ensures 7000 nutritious meals to the needy every day. “I feel jealous of the amenities and facilities available here. This truly is heaven on earth,” says Charrandass Persaud, High Commissioner of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, talking of the Heavenly Homes for senior citizens and Heavenly Angels for orphans. He has been serving children, women, elderly, migrants with all his heart for the past 26 years to fight hunger, poverty, education and healthcare for global peace and harmony.
Abhaya S Jain
President, Jain International Trade Organization Founder & Chairman, LifeCell International Pvt Ltd Chennai, Tamil Nadu
A highly successful businessman, inspiring leader, magnanimous benefactor, he is also an adept horse rider, has learnt rowing, flying airplanes is a passion and is a singer and guitar player. A chemical engineering leader, his is India’s largest accredited stem cell bank, operating with more than 75 centers globally. He is the Founder Member of JITO with philanthropic interests who also believes in giving through time and inspiring others for greater good.
Anil Loomba
President & CEO, Home Mortgage Solutions, Inc
A distinguished CA, leading mortgage and real-estate industry, a highly awarded businessman, his heart lies in betterment of society. He is a generous donor to the Federation of Indian Association (FIA), Chicago, American Institute of Architects (AIA), United Punjabis of America (UPA) and generously donates to various community and religious organizations. He has committed to Vidya Jyoti, an organization educating underprivileged children to help them grow up into financially independent citizens.
Anita Manwani
President, TiE Silicon Valley Redwood City, California
The first woman as the TiE Silicon Valley President, she is a seasoned corporate executive and entrepreneur. One of the Top 100 Women in Silicon Valley in 2011, she has been the ‘Technology All Star’ for the National Women of Color Conference and a recipient of the YWCA TWIN award for executive leadership. She has been a part of NASA Ames Research Center, served as the Chairman of Agilent Technologies India and the Senior Executive of Hewlett Packard.
Arjun Malhotra
Co-Founder, HCL Group & Chairperson, IIT Startups Saratoga, California
Co-founding HCL Group, TechSpan, Headstrong, SPIC MACAY, he is rightly known as the pioneer of the Indian IT industry. The Chairperson of IIT Startups, he is presently a leading advisor in healthcare and a leading the education space being on the Board of Governor of the likes of the IIT Foundation (Kharagpur); ISB Hyderabad; IIM in Shillong and Udaipur and has founded the Prof. G.S. Sanyal School of Telecommunications at IIT, Kharagpur.
Bharat Natwar Patel
Avinder Singh Chawla
Board Member, Newport Mesa Interfaith Council (NMIC) Santa Ana, California
He started as a civil engineer and served as Vice Chair of the Transportation Commission, Irvine. His political interests made him the first Indo-American Sikh member of the Resolutions Committee under California Democratic Party and Chaplain in Orange County Sheriff’s Department. This Founder President of Asian Americans for Biden in Orange County contributed profusely to the success of Biden-Harris Administration and represented Sikhs on Vaisakhi celebration at White House.
Dr Bharat Haridas Barai
Medical Director, Cancer Institute, Methodist Hospital Member & Former President, Medical Licensing Board,
State of Indiana, Munster, Indiana
An Oncologist by profession and a philanthropist at heart, he has often been recognized with awards and accolades; in fact, he is a Guinness Book of World Record Holder for the longest serving member of the State Medical Licensing Board. He works tirelessly treating disadvantaged and uninsured patients and reducing the cost of medication. He joined hands with the likes of Lata Mangeshkar, Sudha Murthy, Sadhguru, Nandan Nilekani for the book themed on Narendra Modi, a close alliance.
Bhupen ‘Bhupatrai’ Mehta
Owner, Mehta Associates Cupertino, California
He helps develop green hydrogen energy and fuel cell technologies. He is a member of Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). He was awarded the Power Plant of the Year award by the Power Magazine, EPRI’s first Discovery-Development-Delivery recognition for successful construction and operation of the first CAES plant. He is dedicatedly working toward the education of the underprivileged in India and inspiring people to adopt healthy lifestyles.
Bhupeshchandra Narottambhai Patel
Chief Executive Officer, BN Patel Associates Houston, Texas
Financial management whizz, committed to community service and philanthropy, he is always a step ahead of the times. A Fellow of the Cost and Executive Accountants Limited, UK, a member of Chartered Management Institute, UK, and also of the American Management Association, he chose to be self-made, buying out a small company and growing in different fields in Africa and the US. A firm believer of BAPS, he is always helping any needy he comes across.
Brij Sharma
President & CEO, PowerVolt, Inc Chicago, Illinois
He fled his home to study and be a civil servant but he became an outperforming and meritorious engineer. Today, his wife and he have pledged to contribute to educating every child on earth. Buying three gas-stations, he started small but later established PowerVolt from the basement of his home in the US. Adding two more companies to his name, he now supplies to Fortune 100 companies!
Charanjit Singh Batth
Founder, Batth Farms Caruthers, California
He started small in the US in 1969 and today he grows grapes on 14,000 acres in Caruthers, which supplies raisins
to half the world – He is known as the Raisin King of the world. IN between, he has led to the building and renovations of schools in India and gurudwaras in India and the US. He was also the first Sikh to be bestowed the Lincoln Award by the Fresno County Republican Party in 2017.
Bhai Sahiba, Bibiji (Dr) Inderjit Kaur Khalsa
Chief Religious Minister, Sikh Dharma International Espanola, New Mexico
Bhai Sahiba Bibiji Inderjit Kaur Khalsa, PhD, is recognized as a harbinger of interfaith dialogue among religious and political leaders, honored as a revered ‘mother’ and as an Ambassador of Peace and Goodwill by people around the globe. Her endless dedication to the Guru’s mission has brought her prominence and recognition in every corner of the globe, for her religious work, wisdom, philanthropy, dignity and grace. Her teachings formed the basis of Sikh instruction in the Western world and thousands of young people around the globe have been inspired to embrace Sikh dharma.
Chhotalal A Patel
President, S&S International Carol Stream, Illinois
He moved to the US to pursue higher studies in medicine and worked part-time at a steel company. Gaining experience and developing an acumen for 20 years, he started on his own and changed the face of the US steel industry. On the Board of Trustees of Manav Seva Mandir, Chicago, he believes in giving to society by working for religion, culture and welfare of senior citizens. He is currently building a community center and seniors’ homes.
Darshan Singh Bagga
President & CEO, Bagga Real Estate Group Nassau County, New York
A real-estate tycoon, he is the Founding Patron of the World Punjabi Organization; the Founding President of GOPIO-Long Island Chapter; the Founder and President of Sikh Center. He has written the Gurudwara Sahib constitution, started the Glen Cove Gurudwara and the first Plainview Gurudwara in Long Island. He facilitates education with scholarships, publishes the interfaith journal, One World Under God, under which is published a book, Global Religions, and built the Free Med-Wellness Center as a service to humanity.
Darshan Singh Dhaliwal
President, Bulk Petroleum Corporation, Mequon, Wisconsin
For once, he didn’t have enough money for school fees… today, he ensures the education of many. He is the largest petrol retailer in the US and dominates agriculture, hospitality and real estate sectors. A Pravasi Bharatiya Samman receiver, he delivered a train full of supplies to Tamil Nadu during the Tsunami. A whole soccer ground, the first statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the Milwaukee courthouse, he has a lot to his name.
Dr Durga D Agrawal
Founding President & Advisor, Indo-American Chamber of Commerce Houstan, Texas
He believes all glasses are half full, signifying to follow one’s passion in every situation. He crossed rivers in India to go to high school and then traveled overseas to move to the US for further education. A Mechanical Engineer by profession, his innovative designs were used by the navy and now owns a company in piping technology and products. Lessons of philanthropy came to him from his mother and he practices it by donating money, fund raising, sharing ideas, time and efforts for strategizing and executing causes.
Harish Daga
Owner, Gems International of California Los Angeles, California
An expert in precious gems and stones and also a guiding light of selfless and spiritual service to the community through his philanthropic acts, he got all professional guidance from his parents and brothers. He started Gems International and took it to the zenith and now his sons are taking the legacy forward. Following the family tradition of philanthropy, he has formed many dharamshalas in North India and plans to set up educational institutes in India providing scholarships to the needy.
Dr Harbinder ‘Herb’ Singh Brar
Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Genetics & Genomics Specialist, Loma Linda University School of Medicine and University of California Riverside School of Medicine Riverside, California
His medical achievements are no less than his accomplishments as an agriculturist, realtor, researcher, professor, entrepreneur and a loving family man who credits his family and God for his achievements. He finds inspiration from the life of his father, Major Bakhtawar Singh Brar, who is a war veteran and agriculturist at the age of 109+ years. This humble doctor is happy to bring lives to the world and each day he learns from his patients, especially the lesson of patience.
Haridas Kotahwala
Chairman, Navika Group of Companies Uniondale, New York.
He was the first ever Indian to open Indian-owned gemstone and diamond offices in the US. He, along with his colleagues, formed Indian Diamond and Colorstone Association (IDCA) in New York and became its first Vice President. He then joined Navika Group as its Chairman and took the company to the heights with his expertise. He actively donates to Akshaya Patra, Eye Bank Society of Rajasthan, Narayan Seva Sansthan, Ekal Vidyalaya and many others.
Harishchandra Vijaydev Mistry
Director, Vijaydev Mistry Foundation Inc, New York
A developer whose more interested in philanthropy, he wears more than one hat and is successfully carrying forward the family legacy, a millinery business, Sawn Hats, started by his father, Vijaydav Ratanjee Mistry, in 1954 in South Africa and took a bigger step by establishing a commercial real estate business in the US some 45 years ago. He has successfully journeyed four continents, changed business lanes and now focuses on giving back to his roots by the Vijaydev Mistry Foundation.
Harry Aurora
Chairman, Aurora Group of Companies Jericho, New York.
A leader in the EdTech industry, his focus is on industry startups. He envisions world-class and competent education solutions for young minds. Currently he is leading the EdTech and real-estate industries in the US. Over the years, he has taken the podiums at the likes of Harvard and others and engaged with the audience on diverse and interesting discussions on various topics. As a promising entrepreneur, he has emerged as a prominent angel investor in the US.
Dr Harvinder Singh Sahota
Cardiologist Surgeon & Board of Directors, Claremont Lincoln University Bellflower, California
Let’s begin with thanking him. For? Keeping ailing hearts beat! And for that, the world knows him as the Father of Angioplasty. There is strength in the hand he puts on your shoulder. And when a patient’s heart is beyond repair – because there is no way he can save them all – he holds their hands and promises to help them through the very end. Many people often exclaim– “that’s the doctor who saved my life!”
Husam Ahmad
Founder, Infrastructure Business Advisors LLC Founder & Owner, HAKS Engineers and Architects, New York
Not only does he own an engineering consultancy company but is also adept at selling, merging, buying firms. Born in India, started working in Pakistan, while his father worked in Bangladesh – and he totally reflects Indianism. He fell down and picked himself up to reach the top again; in between, he took time to explore the shayar in him. His Foundation supports education and vocational skills, healthcare, potable water and sanitation in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja
Founder Editor & Publisher, The Indian Panorama Hicksville, New York
Aaj Tak, Doordarshan, ITV, The Tribune, The Indian Express, Punjabi Patrika, you name it and he has been there! A prolific writer, journalist and social activist and a lot more, He turned his talents to penning what would become his chef d’oeuvre, The Indian Panorama. He associates and leads fundraising with Eye Foundation of America to fulfill create a world without childhood blindness.
Jagdip Aluwalia
Founding Secretary & Executive Director, Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston
Houston, Texas
Always stepping into a role as a leader – whether as a Rotarian during college days or as the Founding Secretary and Executive Director of Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston. He has a rich 40 years of experience in teaching, manufacturing, procurement, business management and consulting. Appointed by the US Department of Commerce to serve on the Houston District Export Council, he is currently on its board as second Vice President. He dedicates himself to strengthening IACCGH’s mission and vision to empower businesses and create local jobs.
Harshad Shah
Patron-in-Chief, Jain Center of Southern California & Jain Temple of Los Angeles Diamond Bar, California
His experience in the fields of manufacturing, stock market and real estate is wide and large and has set inspirations for the aspiring entrepreneurs. He voluntarily retired to invest himself toward his dream of serving humankind. He now works in charitable organizations to spread the words of wisdom of Jainism, eradicate poverty and uplift society. He inspires youth to pursue their dreams and give back to the community as well.
Padma Bhushan Prof (Dr) Jagdish Sheth
Charles H Kellstadt Professor of Marketing, Goizueta Business School of Emory University Founder, Sheth Leadership Academy Duluth, Georgia
A Padma Bhushan recipient, he is globally known for his scholarly contributions in consumer behavior, relationship marketing, competitive strategy, and geopolitical analysis. Jagdish Sheth School of Management is among the global leaders in management studies. With the Sheth Foundation, he shares his knowledge gained over the five decades in Marketing and Academia. An author, he has published over 300 papers, several books and an autobiography – all an inspiration for educators and entrepreneurs.
Dr Jasvant Nagindas Modi
President, Vardhamana Charitable Foundation Los Angeles, California
The purpose of his life has always been to serve humankind, first as a doctor for three decades and then as a philanthropist. He founded the Vardhman Charitable Trust to prophesize the tenets of Jainism, especially about nonviolence and veganism, through endowments and professorships in universities in India, Canada, Europe and the US. He is associated with Jain Center of Southern California, Jain Temple of LA, JAINA and Chairman of Akshaya Patra LA chapter.
Kailash N Jhalani
President, Prompt Gem Importers Inc New York City, New York
He left behind his flourishing family business to move to the US to pursue his passion in gems and jewelry. Who knew he would be a pioneer in the industry and would sell the biggest of sapphires, shiniest of diamonds and brightest of rubies. He was the Vice President of IDCA and now his son, Shailesh, is taking forward his legacy. Kailash actively supports Jaipur Foot, Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti and Akshaya Patra.
Jesal Patel
Mayor Village of Lincolnwood, Illinois
His work as a realtor made him take charge of his city of residence. The first Indian-American Mayor, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, he started working grade 5 onward. His entity, Patel Realty, has acquired dozens of hotels, shopping centers and residential and commercial properties. Passionate of hiking and active sports, he is a marathoner too and a part of Athletic Hall of Fame. The Village President has climbed Mt Whitney and spends time inspiring school students.
Jugal Malani
CEO, Unique Industrial Product Company Houston, Texas
He defined the success of Howdy Modi! event, the first ever biggest event to gather Indo-Americans under one roof. Starting with just 10 dollars, he led his company to become a multimillion dollar company within just 6 years. One of most-respected citizens of Houston and the most-respected Indo Americans, he is actively involved in religious and cultural charities and supports education of underprivileged children through Ekal Vidyalaya, Pratham, Magic Bus, India House, etc.
Dr Kalai S Kalaichelvan
Chairman & CEO, PomeGran Inc Manhattan, New York
He makes the Internet easy in the remotest of the Earth. He grew one of his companies by 10-fold within two years and deployed 500,000 wireless radios at airports globally. He has led another to be ranked on the Deloitte Fast 50 list three times. He won Canada’s Innovator of Year and was on the Global Advisory Board for Samsung’s CEO and Board of Hydro Ottawa. He has ensured education for STEM students and mentors entrepreneurs under TiE.
Kamala Harris
49th Vice President of the United States of America, Washington DC
An Asian. An African. An immigrant in the US. She has created history and is beyond dreams – the Vice President of the US – She is a leader. She is an inspiration. She is a personification of hard work, good education, persistence! She is a representation of unity in diversity and inclusivity. She achieved what not everyone dreams of. And how! She inspires the youth beyond the international boundaries. “The right foundation,” she credits her upbringing.
Lal K Motwani
TriState New York Coordinator, Global Organization of People of Indian Origin New York City, New York
A strong leader, he is an established architect and designer in the US and has left his mark on a number of New York City landmarks such as John F Kennedy (JFK) Airport, LaGuardia Airport, World Trade Center, American Express office, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, City Bank, Chase Manhattan Bank or the world’s largest public housing facility – the New York City Housing Authority. He is the first Asian to be awarded the esteemed Distinguished Service Award among many other accolades.
Dr Lalit P Patel
Primary Physician, Complete Wellcare Medical PLLC Brooklyn, New York
Among the many awards, like the Hind Ratna, another from House of Lords in London, UK, he holds calls from his patients on the top. A supporter of women rights and a humble philanthropist, he leaves no stone unturned to contribute to his community through Popatlal Kalidas Charitable Family Foundation. The Foundation was a prime support to India during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to help develop rural communities of India.
Krishna Bansal
CEO & President, Q1 Technologies, Inc Aurora, Illinois
He is all set to represent Illinois’ 11th Congressional District Republican Party to the US House with a special focus on economy, education, technology and immigration. Starting Q1 Technologies in 2002, he was recognised as the technology architect in the country within a few years. He has worked with many Fortune 500 companies in the last 20 years and was instrumental in the formation of the first Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board (IACOAB), Aurora.
Madhavan MR Rangaswami
Co-Founder, Sand Hill Group & Founder, Indiaspora San Francisco, California
An entrepreneur, investor, community builder, technology CMO, angel investor, corporate eco-strategist and philanthropist, he demonstrates a unique talent for fostering innovation and creating impactful networks. Settling down in Silicon Valley, he contributed to the rapid expansion of the technology industry as a pioneering marketing executive at both small and large software companies, including Oracle and Baan. Featured in the Wall Street Journal, he has founded many business communities and leads giant collaboration on sustainability and climate change.
Manahar 'Manu' Ravilal Shah
Co-Founder, MSI, Inc & Sarva Mangal Family Trust
Orange County, California
True to the name of his charity organization Sarva Mangal
Family Trust, all that this family means is goodness to all.
Healthcare, education, mothercare over the internet to the
remote corners of India, COVID-19 relief, entrepreneurship
building and whatnot, he works in India, parts of South
Asia, the US, the sub-Saharan Africa. His wife has pushed
their company to a smoking-free zone… which today is the
largest distributor of flooring solutions in North America.
Dr Manbir Singh
Medical Director, McFarland Singh Medical Clinic McFarland, California.
He is among the few who set a dream and make it come true. A medicine expert, who became one for his desire
to help people, and help to his best, he is a Guru Nanak follower. He was recognized as the first 50 prominent Sikhs
of America and Grand Marshall 2019. Many achievements as a doctor, he is an actor and an ardent philanthropist and
loves gardening.
Meera Gandhi
Founder & CEO, The Giving Back Foundation
New York
A humanitarian, philanthropist, social activist, mother, businesswoman and mental wellness
advocate between New York, London, Mumbai,
Dubai, Hong Kong, she believes in giving back
to the universe. Devoted to improving the lives
of women and children through grass-roots
projects worldwide, she promotes education
as the stepping stone to success. A multiple
awards and accolades winner, her book, 3
Tips: The Essentials for Peace, has made to the
bestselling list.
Manhar ‘MP’ Rama
Chief Executive Officer, Sima Hotels
Orlando, Florida
“Listen to your heart and you’ll succeed,” he firmly believes.He listened to his heart and left his government job to move
to the US. Starting with a small motel, he grew on to own and operate over 100 hotels, like Marriott, Hyatt, Westin, Sheraton, Courtyard, Radisson, Holiday Inn, Hilton. He now proudly lends his skills to African schools to develop basic infrastructural requirements for underprivileged workers in
his native village.
Dr Manu K Vora
Chairman & President, Business Excellence, Inc
Fulbright Specialist, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Naperville, Illinois
Laid off in the very beginning of his career, he was absorbed by AT&T Bell – since then, he has been knitting success webs for Fortune 500 companies. A professor at the top management US and Indian universities, he is among the who’s who of the world, of the US, in Science and Engineering and in Global Finance and Business! His Blind Foundation serves over 15 million visually challenged people in India and raised funds for free eyesight check-ups globally.
Mihir Bababhai Patel
President, Monpat Construction Inc New York City, New York
He played with building blocks as a child and today is a leading real estate developer of the US. A sportsperson, an engineer, a go-getter,
Mihir was born into an illustrious family of educationists and political leaders. Leading Monpat Construction, he has successfully constructed The New LaGuardia Airport, Moynihan Station, Rockland Psychiatric Center, City of New York Parks and many more transportation and facility projects. He also served as the President of the Society of Indo-American
Engineers and Architects (SIAEA).
Mayur Thakorbhai Dalal
Wealth Coach & CEO, Dalal Capital Advisors LLC Jericho, New York
A life member of Top of the Table of the Million Dollar Round Table and the Forum 400, he is also an active member of the
Financial Planners Association, Purposeful Planning Institute and Legacy Wealth Coach Network. He now specializes in mentoring, coaching, life planning, insurance, asset protection, wealth transfer, estate planning, charitable planning and business succession planning, and calls it ‘The 8 Wheels of
Life’. He dedicates a lot of what he does to his grandfather.
Mohamad Faroqui
Founder, Print Early LLC & New York Banner Stands New York
Heard of Apna Bazar, United Nations, Facebook, Google, Amazon, Adidas, Citibank, Tiffany & Co? He has worked with them all.
All of 42, his has already been named the No. 1 printing website in the US. He has been the official printing partner with glamor world – the IIFA, AR Rahman’s concert, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan show. Committed to change and evolution, he is that one entrepreneur who’s always prepared.
Dr Natwar Gandhi
Chief Financial Officer, Washington DC Chair, Board of the Trustees Committee on Audit & Compliance, Gallaudet University Washington, DC
His 13-year tenure as CFO of Washington DC transformed the place from a jurisdiction coming close to bankruptcy into a financially healthy municipality, which came in helpful for its 1200 staff members. Today, he is known as the 7 billiondollar-man. The Autobiography of an Unknown Gandhi, a memoir he wrote will soon be translated into Marathi and Hindi. He has also established a hospital providing free treatment to the underprivileged.
Naveen C Shah
President & CEO, Navika Group of Companies Uniondale, New York
A renowned and successful CPA, he leads with the motto of Conventional Wisdom, Forward Thinking. He has globally recognized brands like the Marriott, Hilton, Intercontinental, Starwood, Wyndham and has been on the boards of many banking institutions. The co-founder of Rajasthan
Association of North America (RANA), he preserves uplifts the Indian community. Among his many awards are a citation from Nassau County Executive and recognitions by India Association of Long Island (IALI) and Nargis Dutt
Memorial Foundation.
Navneet Singh Chugh
Managing Partner, Chugh LLP Los Angeles, California
An angel in disguise who is also an angel investor, an established CPA and an attorney-at-law, he is deeply in love with India and the US and an insatiable urge to develop the needy. He is on boards of various organizations and has been instrumental in founding the South Asian Bar Association (SABA) of Southern California, The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) of Southern California and was the Founder President of the North American South Asian Bar Association in 2003.
Muthu G Mudaliar
Registered Financial Consultant, NVS Financial
Strategies Inc Frisco, Texas
He is the man behind S-2045 Legislation that helped H-1B professionals retain their jobs in the US, and changed the way Visas are held out to Indians. Beginning his career as an engineer, he developed a chip that landed on the moon – but even the moon wasn’t enough for him. He then became a financial advisor
and featured among top 30 VIP Advisors.
Dr Nitin Kumudchandra Shah
Professor, Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Loma, Linda University
Interim Deputy Chief of Anesthesiologist and Intensivist, Tibor Rubin Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
He has been taught by life; his wife’s demise made him a passionate humanitarian, sports taught him to accept and win life’s challenges. An empathetic health missionary, he promotes better health across the globe by conducting yearly health-camps; a young Jamaican girl still thanks him for providing her eyesight and supporting her education. Since life was never easy for him, he is now making it healthy for others with as many as 569 health missions in 18 countries.
Drs Pallavi & Kiran C Patel
Pediatrician & Cardiologist Tampa, Florida
Zambian-Indian-American philanthropist, serial entrepreneur, hotelier and cardiologist, they are changing the face of the three countries with their philanthropic acts in the areas of education, healthcare, welfare of children and women, culture and living standard of society. Besides philanthropy, the power couple founded as many as 11 companies, turning
them into unicorns, one after another and are eager to share their success models to create a bigger sustainable impact for the welfare in general.
Dr Piara Singh
Board Member, American Sikh Council Retired Chief Engineer, US Navy (Marines)
Cerritos, California.
A community leader, a social activist, a believer of karma, he is a retired naval civil engineer dedicatedly working to spread the messages of Guru Nanak Dev ji. He has been the President and Chairman of Sikh Study Circle in Los Angeles, member of the Republican Senatorial Inner Circle National Committee, Federal Managers Association, LA County Sheriff’s Department Advisory Council, etc.
Dr Ratinder Paul Singh Ahuja
Founder & CEO, ShieldX Networks Inc CTO & VP, Pure Storage Santa Clara, California
For him, success is just a by-product of excellence – be it completing a sixth-degree black belt in TaeKwon-Do or his business interests. Getting the best out of his life is “just fun”. How else could he have have got 71 patents in his name! It is probably his Army background that makes this man at 55 years as full of beans, full of life, enthusiastic and jolly as a 25-year-old.
Raj Gopal Asava
Founder, HungerMitao
Plano, Texas
He retired as Chief Strategy Officer of Perot Systems to start Hunger Mitao with his wife to eradicate hunger from India and the US, getting them the Community Partner of the Year by the North Texas Food Bank, Lifetime Achievement Award by the US President Joe Biden and a place among the top 100 Indiaspora’s 2021 Philanthropist. Going by his motto ‘learning, earning and returning’, he is giving back to society
through children advocacy, education and mentoring the youth.
Sam Pitrodia
Chairman, The Pitroda Group CEO, alpha-En Corporation (ALPE) Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois
He spearheaded India’s computer and IT revolution with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi. A Padma Bhushan recipient, he is the pioneer of mobile transaction technology and STD/PCO booths in India. He was the advisor on Public Information Infrastructure and Innovations during Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh’s tenure. The Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress, he has founded leading companies like Wescom Switching, Ionics, MTI, Martek, WorldTel,
C-SAM, etc.
Col Rajinder Pal Singh Bhalla (Retd)
Former Subsidiary President,
Charles River Laboratories, Inc Houston, Texas
From a Surgeon to Army Colonel, he was the first recipient of the Community Service Award by the India House, Houston. He introduced the Bhalla Trophy with a significant cash prize awarded annually to one outstanding Officer and one JCO/OR of Remount Veterinary Corps. Inspired by Gandhi and Churchill for their efforts to unite their countries for the welfare of society, he is a philanthropist making huge donations to 25+ institutions in different sectors around the globe.
Santosh Kulshrestha Kumar
Founder, President, International University of Vedic Wellness Chicago, Illinois.
She is the Mother Teresa of Chigaco. She is a wonder woman, a firebrand and a force to reckon with. She has practiced law, ensured safety of many women, fought bride-burning and child-marriage in Rajasthan and brought about amendments in India law. She stands by immigrants and senior citizens in the US and has dedicated three NGOs to them. She is now set upon imparting Vedic knowledge for the best of the human body.
Dr Samin K Sharma
Director, Cardiovascular Clinical Institute Mount Sinai Hospital New York City, New York
He is living his childhood dream and today is known for the maximum number of complex coronary interventions in the US with the highest success rate. He has been on the Cardiac Advisory Board of the New York State since
2004. An author of many articles and books, he frequently visits India to mentor aspiring doctors and donate required medical equipment.
The Co-Founder of the EHCC Hospital, Jaipur,
he is definitely an industry leader.
Sarbjit Singh Thiara
CEO, Thiara Company
Yuba City, California
A true Indian, he totally represents India in the US. A farmer’s son, he too has become a proud and passionate farmer who never shied away from sheer hard work to own 7000+ acre farms. On the side is another of his passions – Kabaddi. The proud owner of Royal Kings USA, a team of kabaddi players, he trains needy Indian players, supports their families till they find their place in the team.
Satish Gupta
CEO & President, SB International Dallas, Texas
As a child he was rebellious who now seeks power in spirituality. He established SB International that was listed on Dallas International Journal for 100 fastest-growing private companies in Dallas for 5 succeeding years. The
University of Dallas named its business school after this alumnus as The Satish and Yasmin Gupta College of Business. He is a serial philanthropist and established Gupta Agarwal Charitable Foundation for education, medical research and healthcare and cultural awareness. He also supports Think India Foundation, Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas Symphony, Chinmaya Mission, Skill Development Centre and many more.
Dr Sampat Shivangi
Chairman, Mississippi State Board of Mental Health Ridgeland, Mississippi
Mississippi had a special gift for him – a whole street named after him – as a reflection on his many contributions to the medical industry, welfare of women, children education, cultural promotion and strengthening Indo American relationships. The first ever Indian on the American Medical Association, he is the
Founding President of AAPI and serves the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and is habitual of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s company.
Satya Shaw
President, Shaw Tax Advisory Group, LLC Tampa, Florida
He earned his CPA when there were just five Indian registered CPAs in the US. He fought against discrimination for aspiring Indian doctors, store property insurance and store employees’ safety through AAPI, AAHOA, Sheriff’s Indian Advisory Council, etc, to facilitate what rightfully was theirs. A pioneer to help clients with retirement and estate planning, he is also an active member of TiE and India Cultural Center – a complete people’s person.
Dr Shailesh Jayantilal Mehta
Managing General Partner, Granite Hill Capital Partners, San Francisco, California
An amazing math wiz, he has curated a journey of his own – a journey of investments, learning the nuances ever since he began his IIT journey. He leads and guides many top organizations in both the US and India. He is known globally for his contribution to education, art, culture even as he shares his business knowledge and experience with global youth. What more do we say – IIT-Bombay has a whole school of management named after him!
Subash Razdan
Chairman, The Gandhi Foundation of USA Atlanta, Georgia
Subash Razdan Day on February 22, whatmore! A recipient of numerous awards, he promotes the Gandhi-King philosophy of peace and non-violence. Renowned internationally, he is the producer of Namaste Bombay and a keynote speaker, prolific writer and guest on TV, radio and print media. He has been cited in the US Congressional records and is very active in advocacy of pro Indian-American issues and fostering good Indo-US ties.
Dr Shamsher Singh Babra
Division Chief & Policy Advisor (Retd), The World Bank Washington DC
He was the first Sikh to get a doctorate from a Washington DC University, the first Sikh to join The World Bank, first one seconded to advise African Government, founder of the first non-profit Indian organization in Washington DC, first one to build a house there and the man behind the first Gurudwara
built in there. His books on Punjab and Partition have won awards and he has works towards promoting culture and religion for common good.
Smita Shah
President & CEO, SPAAN Tech, Inc Palo Alto, California
An infrastructure entrepreneur at age 24, she committed to excellence and improving lives! A math geek, engineer, civic leader, she contributes to education, environmental engineering, sports, etc. Chicago’s 40 under 40, Ernst and Young
Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist, Entrepreneur Awardee for the Lake County, Small Business Administration Graduate
of the Year, she has won the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for helping strengthen ties between India and the US. Young and raging, she doesn’t put up with mediocrity!
Sparsh Shah
Singer, Songwriter, Rapper, Motivational Speaker, Philanthropist Iselin, New Jersey
He is a singer, songwriter, rapper, motivational speaker and philanthropist. Yahoo ranked him among top 10 child prodigy. He has spoken at TEDx, United Nations, Microsoft to name some. He recorded a cover song for Eminem, interviewed Arnab Goswami, sang the national anthem at Howdy
Modi, got featured in YouTube’s Real Stories, interviewed by Steve Harvey on Little Big Shots and associated with many NGOs. All that – and he is 19! He… definitely is special.
Sundar Pichai
CEO, Alphabet Inc & Google Mountain View, California
He has made his name well-known to the world now. He is the mastermind behind the Google Chrome Browser in 2008 and lauded for his innovation and leadership qualities. Leading two of the most coveted organizations, he has love for motherland, his countrymen and his family deeply inside him. He eagerly guides the students of IIT and helps educate rural people in India, both academically and technically. A recipient of many awards, he has also received Padma Bhushan.
Dr Vithal Devshibhai Dhaduk
Chairman of Board, Marizyme, Inc Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton
Pennsylvania Growing up in scarcity, he grew up determined and humble. Passionate to find a cure of certain diseases keeps him at work for 15-18 hours. Dhaduk Charitable Trust funds education and health facilities for the underprivileged in India and has rebuilt primary and high schools in his village. Gurukul Hospital that he built in Rajkot provides free healthcare to the needy. One of the products his company has developed is sure to revolutionize the pet health industry
Dr Vivek Lall
Chief Executive, General Atomics Global Corporation Poway, California.
He is an industry leader and science Titan. He has worked with NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, NATO’s Science and Technology with the Pentagon. He was appointed in a critical advisory role to the US Cabinet Secretary heading
the Department of Transportation. He has the Lifetime Achievement Award by US President Joe Biden with the citation of ‘With Grateful Recognition’. He is recognized among the top scientists of the 20th century and featured on global who’s who many times.
Dr Vijay Dave
Director of Medical Education, St Mary’s Medical Center Merrillville, Indiana
He believes lack of money shouldn’t stop anyone from education and so has his doors open for students to stay. An established cardiologist providing quality care, he has received the Sagamore of Wabash Award, Glory of Gujarat and Shalin Manav Ratna awards. A conference hall at St Mary Medical Center named after him. He has his doors open for students to stay and believes that lack of money shouldn’t stop education.