The Association of Indians in America (AIA) New Jersey Chapter successful Autism Awareness Fundraiser and Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of American Independence on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the APA Hotel and Conference Center in New Jersey.
The event was chaired by Dr. Bharti Palkhiwala, and brought together community leaders, elected officials, healthcare professionals, advocates, artists, and supporters from across the region.
The event kicked off with National Anthems of the United States and India, sung by twins Tejas and Shreyas Gokul.
The event’s theme was “Shining a Light on Liberty and Inclusion” through advocacy and support for Autism Awareness.
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Among the high-profile guests present were Congressman Frank Pallone, and also Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, president of the Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, GAPIO, and chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold.
Dr. Parikh, a member of the Board of Trustees of AIA spoke of the importance of Autism awareness and early intervention to seek and help provide proper care.
Congressman Pallone focused on the importance of understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder, ASD, and the need for continued support for individuals and families affected. He highlighted ongoing governmental initiatives, research efforts, and public policies designed to improve services for those living with autism.
Dr. Bimal Ramani a spiritual scientist and best-selling author of “Be a Super Human” defined ASD and demonstrated alternative methods of coping, healing and acknowledgement.
Founding Member and Past President of the AIA New Jersey chapter Uma Swaminathan, dwelt on America’s 250th Anniversary and on the journey of Indian immigrants who arrived during the 1950s and 1960s.
She spoke of AIA’s founding in New Jersey nearly six decades ago, praising the pioneers whom she named – Dr. Manoranjan Dutta and his wife, Kanak Dutta; Dr. Tapas Sen and his wife, Sondra Sen; Dr. Roshan Chaddha and his wife, Mary Ellen Chaddha; along with Dr. Kashi Swaminathan and Uma Swaminathan and Dr. Ram Gnanadesikan and his wife Dr. Mridula.
Current AIA New Jersey Chapter President Koshek Swaminathan gave his perspective as a second-generation Indian American and the son of founding-members Uma and Dr. Kashi Swaminathan. He shared memories and adventures from growing up within the AIA family and participating in its programs and conventions across the country.
National President of the AIA Nilima Madan was present as were AIA New York Chapter members. World Vegan Vision’s PR Director Nitin Vyas also addressed the audienceand appreciated the vegan food at the event organized by Meena Waran.
Other community leaders included Dr. Ramani, former Assemblyman Upendra Chivukula, past National President Govind Munjal and his wife Suman Munjal, Gobind Bhathija, Madhavan Nair, Sharad Shah, Ashok Bhatt, and Dr. Arun Palkhiwala.
The cultural program included a dance performance by Abhinaya Ashwin; a short play on autism by local artists led by Jayesh Mehta; and musical entertainment by the Jack Lowery Band and the Gypsy Funk Squad.
For membership contact – koshek@gmail.com or usuma1373@gmail.com.