The Gandhian Society (USA) proudly hosted a distinguished Meet and Greet event on Monday, May 26th, at Royal Albert’s Palace in Edison, New Jersey, in honor of Smt. Rajashree Birla is, Chairperson of the multi-conglomerate multi-national Aditya Birla Group. The evening also marked the formal announcement of the Aditya Birla Group and the Gandhian Society’s joint landmark initiative — the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center, to be established in Central New Jersey.

This milestone event brought together a diverse gathering of community members, civic leaders, and dignitaries, all united by a shared commitment to promoting the timeless values of Mahatma Gandhi. The Eternal Gandhi Peace Center is envisioned as a vibrant community hub dedicated to education, dialogue, and programs focused on non-violence, social justice, and harmony.

The evening featured a series of captivating cultural performances that showcased local artistic talent and reflected the spirit of unity and peace. Distinguished guests, including Mayor Sam Joshi (Edison), Mayor John McCormac (Woodbridge), and Consul Ms. Pragnya Singh, delivered inspiring remarks, underscoring the importance of Gandhian principles in addressing the challenges of the modern world.

In her keynote address, Smt. Rajashree Birla shared insightful reflections on the power of peace, compassion, and service, which were among the founding principles of Gandhiji’s teachings and values he lived by. She gave some rare glimpses about Gandhiji’s journey from Shri Mohandas to Mahatma. She also elaborated upon the Aditya Birla Group’s “Eternal Gandhi & Special Projects” headed by Shri Nitin Mathuria – President of the Birla Group, who was also present at the event, and the various digital interactive multi-media Museums/Gandhi Peace Centres set up and run by this Project worldwide. She also commended the Gandhian Society’s efforts to keep Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy alive through meaningful community engagement. 

During the event, the Society presented its vision for the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center, outlining future activities aimed at fostering youth engagement, cultural exchange, and civic responsibility.

The Gandhian Society extends its deepest gratitude to Smt. Rajashree Birla, Mr Nitin Mathuria, honored guests, volunteers, performers, and attendees for making the launch of the Eternal Gandhi Peace Center a resounding success. This event marks the beginning of an exciting journey toward nurturing peace and understanding in the heart of New Jersey.

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Smt. Rajashree Birla has been a long-standing patron and advocate of Gandhian values, generously supporting initiatives around the world that promote peace, non-violence, and community upliftment. Her continued commitment to preserving the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi reflects the Birla family’s historical association with the Mahatma and their unwavering dedication to social responsibility.

A highlight of Smt. Birla’s contributions is her support for the Eternal Gandhi Project, which features an interactive digital museum celebrating the life and message of Mahatma Gandhi. With sponsorship from the Birla Group, this digital museum—originally located in Atlantic City—is now being relocated to Edison, New Jersey, under the leadership of Bhadra Butala and the Gandhian Society.

The event is being hosted by the Gandhian Society in collaboration with Bhadra Butala, Albert Jasani, and Dr. Dinesh Patel. Distinguished guests will include Binaya Pradhan, Indian Consul General in New York, and local dignitaries, Mayor John McCormac (Woodbridge Township) and Mayor Sam Joshi (Edison).

The afternoon will feature:

• A formal recognition of Smt. Rajashree Birla’s philanthropic efforts
• A Khadi-themed kids’ fashion show
• Children’s cultural performances focused on Gandhi’s life and ideals
• Devotional music centered on themes of patriotism and peace
• A special audio-visual presentation on the Eternal Gandhi Museum project in the U.S. and abroad

This gathering aims to spotlight the ongoing work of the Gandhian Society in promoting humanitarian causes and educating future generations about the timeless relevance of Gandhian principles.

RSVP Information

Those interested in attending are requested to RSVP by May 20, 2025, at Event RSVP

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Event Details:

Location: Sarvodaya Samaj, Kali Rd, Parade Ground, Daraganj, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
211005
Hosted by: Gandhian Society

Experience:

Witness a magnificent Gandhi statue.
Experience the profound teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and Acharya Vinoba Bhave on
a large outdoor screen.

Join Our Cause:

We invite all who share their ideals of truth, non-violence, and humanity to volunteer. Be a part
of spreading their timeless message at the Kumbh Mela.

Contact:

Bhadra Butala, +91 9106568560, gandhiansociety2021@gmail.com

About the Gandhian Society:

We, the Gandhian Society (GS) exist to promote the Gandhian Way of Life in the USA. We
spread his message of Non-violence, Truth, Self-Discipline & Love, among the people of
America.

Our Core Mission

Spread the message of non-violence, eradicate discrimination, and implement Gandhian
methodology & philosophy to uplift humanity.
Support all the Gandhian associations and organizations doing similar work around the world
and spread awareness across the U.S.

Gandhian Society, 1412 Oak Tree Rd. Iselin New Jersey 08820
www.gandhiansociety.org | gandhiansociety2021@gmail.com ! 732 407 5013

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PUNE: The Ganeshotsav celebration at Ganga Nebula Society located at Viman Nagar has started with great enthusiasm and this annual festival holds a special place in the hearts of the residents bringing them together in a unique and cherished way. Every year the celebration takes place with utmost enthusiasm with a festive mood prevalent among the residents and an overwhelming sense of community bonding during the Ganeshotsav celebrations.

The celebrations kicked off with a grand procession where the beautifully crafted Lord Ganesha’s idol was paraded through the Society’s streets amidst cheering residents and the beating of traditional drums.  Residents participate in various cultural and religious activities and there are daily aartis performed by members offering prayers and seeking blessings from Lord Ganesha.

Cultural events, dance performances, and other competitions are held and the entire residents, especially little children participate in these activities with great fervor. The skit performed by the tiny tots of the Society signifying the importance of Dhurva’s offering to Lord Ganesha captivated the audience.  Additionally, the Society encourages eco-friendly celebrations, promoting sustainable practices to protect the environment.

The Ganeshotsav celebrations not only strengthen the bonds among its residents but also serve as a beautiful example of a community coming together to celebrate their faith, culture, and commitment to a better society.

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PUNE: On the occasion of National Vascular Day, a walkathon was organized in Pune by the Vascular Society of India (VSI) to focus on the critical issues of amputation prevention and vascular health awareness. Vascular Society of India’s Walkathon saw enthusiastic participation from over 200 residents, who gathered at the VC office of Savitribai Phule Pune University to join the cause. The event was a part of the national walkathon which brought together over 15,000 participants across 30 cities including Pune. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1 million limb amputations occur globally each year, with a significant portion being preventable through early intervention and proper management of risk factors. In India, around 40-50% of all amputations are due to complications from vascular diseases, particularly diabetes. This highlights the critical need for increased awareness and preventive measures to manage risk factors like high blood sugar, hypertension, and high cholesterol. 

Flagging off the walkathon, Dr. Pranjal Sawant, Consultant Vascular Surgeon at KEM Hospital Pune said, “The majority of surgical amputations occur due to complications associated with vascular diseases and other conditions affecting blood circulation, such as diabetes and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This walkathon was a powerful step towards our shared goal of an amputation-free world, increasing awareness about the severity of vascular diseases. We owe this success to the Vascular Society of India for their proactive role and exceptional support.”

Commenting on the initiative, Dr.Tapish Sahu, Secretary of the Vascular Society of India, stated, “Our objective is to enhance community health by establishing a comprehensive vascular healthcare framework, striving for an amputation-free India. The overwhelming response across the nation is very encouraging. It is inspiring to see so many people come together for such a vital cause. The walkathon not only highlights the importance of vascular health but also underscores the power of community in driving change.”

“Today’s event is a significant milestone in our mission to reduce preventable amputations in India,” said Dr. P C Gupta, President of the Vascular Society of India. “The nationwide participation demonstrates the growing commitment to vascular health and the power of collective action in driving meaningful change.”

Preventing vascular diseases requires a multifaceted approach that includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, and routine medical check-ups. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with the avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, plays a crucial role in vascular health. Additionally, managing underlying lifestyle conditions through medication and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of vascular complications. Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are essential to inform people about these preventive measures and the importance of early detection and treatment of vascular conditions.

The Vascular Society of India, a prominent chapter of the World Federation of Vascular Societies, collaborates with an extensive network of medical specialists, surgeons, interventionalists, nurses, and allied health professionals, all dedicated to the cause of saving limbs and lives. With over 700 active members across the country, VSI stands as one of the largest and most influential chapters globally, consistently working towards mitigating preventable amputations and enhancing patient care in the vascular health domain.

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PUNE: The India Science Festival 2024 (ISF 2024) which concluded recently at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune on January 20 and 21, 2024 has marked another milestone in the celebration of scientific discovery and innovation. Organized by the Foundation for Advancing Science and Technology (FAST India) in partnership with Bajaj Auto, the festival provided a platform for scientists, researchers, students, and the public to engage in various scientific activities, discussions, and demonstrations.

ISF 2024 was inaugurated by Varun Aggarwal (Cofounder – FAST India, Founder – Aspiring Minds and The Change Engine), Prof. K Vijay Raghavan (Chief Scientific Advisor to ISF, former Principal Scientific Advisor to GoI), Atul Kirloskar (Chairman, Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited), Gauri Kirloskar (Managing Director, Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited), Ajay Mehta (Director, Deepak Nitrite Limited) and Prof Sunil Bhagwat (Director, IISER Pune).

The festival this year, under the theme “Towards Infinity | Mind, Machines, and the Endless Frontier,” brought together over 60 speakers from prestigious organizations like MIT, Harvard, IISc, IIT, AIIMS, IISER, and Ashoka University. These experts shared their insights on a range of pertinent topics, including Climate Change Solutions, AI & Robotics, and Space Research.

The Keynote speaker for this year was Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-Founder of Infosys. Kris Gopalakrishnan was felicitated as the Industry Science Leader 2024 by Raghunath Anant Mashelkar and Prof K Vijay Raghavan in recognition of his dedication to promoting scientific research and its translation in India, evidenced by his advocacy, generous funding, and instrumental role in founding key scientific institutions.

Kris Gopalakrishnan said, “The potential of talent in India knows no bounds; I truly believe that the 21st century holds immense promise for India, as reflected in the theme of ISF – Towards Infinity. Our strengths lie in the vast population, a market of 1.4 billion people, and a robust education system. Over the next 30 years, the transformation of India will be driven by the students present here. We can cultivate the next generation of multinational corporations and facilitate world-class research right here in India, all thanks to the incredible talent at our disposal.”

In a significant announcement, it was declared that Pune will serve as the permanent venue for all future editions of the India Science Festival, reinforcing the city’s growing status as a hub for scientific discourse and innovation.

One of the highlights of ISF 2024 was “The Best of Unbounded Science – India (BoUnSc India)” with Rannvijay Singh Singha. This segment showcased a fusion of creative talks, photography, and science fiction storytelling, celebrating science uniquely and engagingly. The finale of the ISF flagship competition Talk Your Thesis, held as part of BoUnSc India, saw talented research scholars Spatika Jayaram (PhD student at the University of Cambridge), Parijat Banerjee (BS-MS student at IISER Pune), Ria Vaishampayan (Project fellow, IIT Bombay), and Deepanshi Karwall (MSc student, University of Manchester) compete live – portraying their research in innovative and fun ways. The event concluded with Parijat Banerjee bagging the position of the Talk Your Thesis champion.

The festival featured more than 30 exhibits and workshops, providing hands-on experiences in diverse fields such as prosthetics, AI, automated robots, mental health, food chemistry, and DIY technology. These interactive sessions catered to a wide range of participants, from school students to professionals, emphasizing the practical application of scientific knowledge. In addition, six JC Bose Science Policy Dialogues were conducted featuring 30+ luminaries including Dr. Annapurni Subramaniam, Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Prof. V Ramgopal Rao, Dr. Arabinda Mitra, Dr. Thomas Barlow, and Dr. Priya Nagaraj.

ISF 2024 successfully underscored the importance of science in daily life and its role in shaping the future. The event not only facilitated the exchange of groundbreaking ideas but also inspired participants, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of science and technology.

Varun Agarwal, Co-Founder of FAST & Founder of ISF, said, “The India Science Festival achieved tremendous success, drawing over 23,000 attendees. Scientists were enthusiastically approached by attendees, treating them like celebrities, eager to ask questions and take selfies. We are confident that we have motivated numerous young individuals to consider a career in science. We also had targeted discussions on science policy, involving participation from industry representatives, scientists, policy experts, and government officials. The aim was to collaboratively develop mechanisms that would propel India to become one of the top three nations in science and technology.”

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One of the most cherished aspects of Ganeshotsav in the Ganga Nebula Society is the communal spirit that cuts across religions and beliefs. Residents organized prayers and participated in cultural programs, music recitals, and drama performances that showcased the rich cultural heritage of India. The festival also saw several competitions for children to engage the younger generation in the festivities.

This year, one act that caught the eye of all residents was the play that showed the significance of the Pandharpur pilgrimage. The devotion to Lord Vithal, its historical and mythological significance, its annual festivities, its role in fostering community bonds, and its contribution to India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage were beautifully captured in the play performed by residents.

Ganeshotsav celebrations in Ganga Nebula Society are a beautiful amalgamation of tradition, culture, and community spirit and bonding. Additionally, the Society encourages only eco-friendly celebrations, promoting sustainable practices to protect the environment. All its activities are planned and executed in a manner that highlights the importance of protecting the environment.

The celebrations reinforce the importance of togetherness and harmony in the lives of its residents, and the Society comes alive with devotion and festivity during the festival. The Ganeshotsav celebrations at Ganga Nebula Society are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India and the spirit of communal harmony that binds its people together.

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Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services Organizations functioning across the United States. Established with the objective of being the collective voice of all Information Technology companies with similar interests in the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success.

Vinay Mahajan, President of ITServe Alliance said, “Our ability to empower our local communities is strengthened by the generous donations by our leadership and member organizations. They play a crucial role in the success of our programs. Our partners play a vital role in helping us broaden our reach and positively impact the lives of the lesser fortunate in our communities by helping us broaden our reach. I am proud that this respected platform is today more accessible and worthy of your time spent for the common benefit and serving the communities in need across the Chapters through our CSR programs and initiatives”.

According to Vinod Babu Uppu, Governing Board Chair, “ITServe CSR Team members are unwavering in their commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) to give back to local communities across the country. The ITServe CSR vision is empowering local communities through Education and Training, Creating local employment, and supporting our first responders.”

Over the years, ITServe Alliance has established a name for itself as the center point of information for its members and the larger community, covering a variety of areas ranging from immigration, technology, economy, and many more that are relevant to its members. ITServe has 20 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing resources and service to the larger humanity in every part of this innovative country.

Jagadeesh Mosali, President-Elect of ITServe said, “We are committed to empowering local communities through STEM advocacy, educating the underprivileged, feeding the hungry, supporting our veterans and first responders, and recognizing our community heroes. ITServe CSR would like to give back to our local communities through various charitable programs.”

From the very beginning, ITServe’s mission has been to empower local communities through a wide range of initiatives. ITServe believes in the transformative power of STEM scholarships, STEM training, and STEM internships, which enable individuals to reach their full potential and contribute to a thriving society. “By advocating for these educational opportunities, we aim to bridge the gap and provide equal access to quality education,” Mosali pointed out.

Since ITServe’s inception in 2010, the CSR team has embarked on a remarkable journey in the realm of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Starting with small steps, it has made a significant impact by investing 1.5 million dollars in STEM activities and various welfare programs. In addition to the financial contributions, ITServe members have dedicated over 18,000 hours of collective efforts to serving local communities.

Elaborating on the larger mission of CSR, Movva said, CSR has a broad range of initiatives aimed at creating a positive impact in various areas. STEM Scholarships, STEM Education, STEM Training, and Internship Programs are some of the initiatives ITServe and its team led by Movva do on a regular basis. One of its key focuses has been on promoting STEM education among underprivileged students.

“Our CSR team works to establish partnerships with educational institutions, organizations, and industry experts to provide training opportunities that enhance STEM skills and knowledge. This equips individuals with the tools they need to excel in STEM careers and contributes to building a robust talent pipeline,” he added.

Through the non-STEM CSR programs, a broader approach for ITServe is aimed at addressing social challenges beyond the STEM realm. “We actively engage in initiatives that support education, healthcare, and community development, among other areas.”

ITServe encourages and facilitates member engagement in volunteer activities, enabling them to contribute their skills, expertise, time, and resources, ensuring that they collectively make a significant and lasting impact. “By leveraging our collective efforts, we make a meaningful impact on local communities and societal well-being with the objective of making a positive and lasting difference in the areas that matter most to us,” Movva said.

ITServe recognizes the sacrifices of our veterans and first responders, who selflessly serve our nation. ITServe’s CSR has initiated a meaningful collaboration with Welcome Home Troops, a trusted organization supporting our veterans, helping address the critical issue of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and extending comprehensive support to our brave heroes. “This partnership ensures that our veterans receive the care and assistance they deserve, promoting their overall well-being and successful reintegration into civilian life.”

The ITServe leadership takes pride in acknowledging the heroes within the larger community. Whether it’s individuals who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact or organizations that are driving meaningful change, ITServe believes in celebrating and amplifying their efforts.

ITServe has set an ambitious goal for this year, to reach a remarkable milestone of 6,000 volunteer hours, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to serving humanity.

In addition, the organization of multi-talented individuals has set targets of awarding 100 STEM scholarships, providing life-changing opportunities to deserving individuals, and offering 20 STEM internships to foster practical learning experiences. “Through our dedicated STEM training programs, we aspire to empower and educate a diverse group of individuals, reaching 100 participants this year,” Movva added.

In order to achieve these lofty goals, ITServe has assembled an exceptional team of committed and talented national leaders to make its mission accomplished. The STEM Team is chaired by distinguished Chairs for each area. They are Tanuj Gundlapalli, STEM Scholarship Chair 2023;  Jyothi Vazirani, STEM Internship Chair 2023; Venkata Manthena, STEM Training Chair 2023; Chandu Gorrapati, Non-STEM Activity Chair 2023; and Ravi Satya Gavirineni, Volunteer Hours 2023 Co-chair.

In addition to the national chairs, ITSERVE boasts of 20 regional Chapters, each led by a dedicated chapter president, who serves as a pillar, championing the ITSERVE vision alongside the CSR objectives. The national/Chapter level CSR chairs play a vital role in identifying and partnering with qualified non-profit organizations that align with our CSR objectives.

ITServe has cultivated strong partnerships with over 50 prestigious universities and community colleges, forming a robust network to help achieve STEM goals. At the local level, each Chapter is actively engaged with community non-profit organizations, forming vital partnerships to drive ITSeve’s mission and objectives forward.

Movva acknowledges the many challenges he and his Team faces. Identifying the Right Organizations, Assessing Community Needs, Limited Resources, Maximizing Impact, Engaging ITServe Members, Adapting to Changing Needs, and Creating Long-Term Sustainability are only some of the many challenges CSR faces. Despite these challenges, ITServe remains committed to overcoming obstacles and making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves.

“Together, we form an extraordinary team, united in our mission to achieve our CSR goals for 2023 and beyond. I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such exceptional individuals, all working diligently to create a positive impact and shape a better future for those we serve,” Movva said. “Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Our approach not only amplifies our impact but also fosters a strong sense of community within ITSERVE. We are proud to be part of a larger movement that extends beyond individual chapters, uniting us under a shared vision of corporate social responsibility.”

Ongoing participation and commitment are essential to reach these lofty goals. The ITServe CSR Team  “Implores and passionately calls upon our esteemed ITServe members and individuals alike to wholeheartedly engage and actively participate in the diverse range of ITServe’s CSR activities.” ITServe’s CSR Team is confident that with a passionate and dedicated team, ITServe is committed to reaching more organizations and expanding its support network, with the goal to create a lasting and positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities in need. We are driven by the belief that together; we can build a brighter future for everyone. “Join us in our journey as we strive to make a meaningful difference. Together, we can create a brighter future and foster a spirit of compassion, empathy, and empowerment in every corner of society. Together, we can transform lives, inspire change, and leave a legacy of compassion and service. Let’s stand united and make our communities stronger, one step at a time.”

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