The Office of Jersey City Council President Joyce E. Watterman presented a City Proclamation recognizing October as Hindu Heritage Month recognizing the community’s contributions to Jersey City and beyond.
As part of the observance which took place October 24, 2025, Council President Watterman honored educator and community leader Anita Chadha, “whose work exemplifies the values of service, education, and cultural unity,” a press release said.
For more than 3 decades, Chadha has been a teacher, as well as a mentor of fellow educators. She is also a licensed real estate agent.
Chadha is the founder of the Saraswati Cultural Association of New Jersey, a nonprofit based in Jersey City that promotes cultural awareness, unity, and educational opportunities within the South Asian community and beyond through festivals, cultural programs, and charitable initiatives.
ADVERTISEMENT
She has also run for Councilwoman of South River, New Jersey.
“Recognizing leaders like Anita Chadha reminds us of the power of service and the importance of preserving culture while building bridges across communities,” said Council President Joyce E. Watterman. “Her lifelong dedication to education, civic engagement, and cultural unity truly embodies the spirit of Jersey City.”
Those who know her say her impact continues to be felt across generations as she mentors youth, supports families, and uplifts her community through compassion and action.
Watterman, who presented the recognition is a distinguished leader in her own right as the first African American woman to serve as Jersey City Council President. She is currently a candidate for Mayor in the 2025 Jersey City election. If elected, she would become the first African American woman Mayor in Jersey City’s history.