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Newsmakers of the Week APRIL 24, 2026 | The Indian Eye 32

NEWSMAKERS OF THE WEEK

Selected stories about Indian diaspora from our website www.theindianeye.com

DR. NAVEEN MEHTA PRIYANKA CHOPRA

His is a Story of Service and Actor offers tribute to

Excellence Asha Bhosle

ew York, NY: From the quiet coastal town of Mandvi in Kutch has
emerged a figure whose influence now spans continents. Dr. Naveen umbai: Actor Priyanka Chopra has offered a touching homage to
NMehta, a globally respected name in the medical community, is widely legendary singer Asha Bhosle, grieving the loss of a “piece of her
recognized not only for his clinical expertise but also for his enduring commit- Mchildhood.”
ment to service and humanity, revered by many as a “Messiah of humanity.” In an emotional Instagram post, Priyanka wrote, “There are some losses
Dr. Mehta’s early education in Mandvi laid the groundwork for a career that feel like losing a piece of your childhood, your memories, your home.
marked by determination and academic excellence. His pursuit of higher edu- Asha ji was that for so many of us.”
cation led him to London, where he earned the prestigious F.R.C.S. qualifica- Priyanka said Asha Bhosle is a vital part of Indian music and many peo-
tion. He later advanced his specialization in head and neck surgery at leading ple’s lives, from families to celebrations.
hospitals in New York, establishing himself as a skilled and compassionate “Her voice wasn’t just part of Indian music, it was part of the backdrop
surgeon. His work has consistently been noted for its precision, as well as a of our lives. It played through our homes growing up, through family celebra-
patient-centered approach that has earned him widespread respect. tions, through heartbreaks, through joy, through the quiet and loud moments
Over the years, Dr. Mehta’s contributions have been recognized through that became memories before we realized it. For my generation and so many
several distinguished honors. In 2006, he was awarded the Ellis Island Medal before and after, she wasn’t simply a legend we admired, she was a constant.
of Honor, a recognition that celebrates the achievements of immigrants who A voice so eternal it felt like it would always be there,” she continued.
have made significant contributions to American society. That same year, he Reflecting on the legendary singer’s celebrated legacy, Priyanka described
became the first Asian recipient of the ‘New York I.N. Yearly Information’ her music as “one of the greatest gifts.”
Award and was also named ‘Man of the Year’ in New Jersey, highlighting both She wrote, “It is hard to put into words what it means to lose someone
his professional accomplishments and his social impact. whose art helped shape the emotional landscape of an entire nation. Thank
Despite building a successful career in the United States, Dr. Mehta has you, Asha ji, for giving us a lifetime of songs, of feeling, of beauty. For being
maintained strong ties to his homeland. His philanthropic efforts reflect a one of the greatest gifts, music has ever known.”
deep commitment to giving back, particularly in the field of education. The Alongside her note, Priyanka also added an old picture of herself with
P.C.V. Mehta High School in Bhuj stands as a testament to his contributions, Asha Bhosle and a video of the legend singing her popular song ‘Dil Cheez
aimed at empowering young minds through access to quality education. Kya Hai’ from ‘Umrao Jaan.’
Beyond medicine and philanthropy, Dr. Mehta has also been active in Asha Bhosle passed away on Sunday. She was 92. Doctor Prateet Sam-
fostering cultural and community engagement among the Indian diaspora. dani of Breach Candy Hospital confirmed that the veteran singer had been
His leadership roles, including his association with the Kutchi Dasha Shri- dealing with multiple health issues and died due to organ failure.
mali Association as Chairman in New Jersey and involvement with Bharatiya Born in 1933, Asha Bhosle began her musical journey at a young age and
Vidya Bhavan, underscore his efforts to preserve and promote Indian heri- rose to prominence in the 1950s.
tage on a global platform. Over her career spanning decades, she recorded thousands of songs
Today, Dr. Naveen Mehta’s journey—from Mandvi’s shores to interna- across multiple Indian languages, ranging from classical and ghazals to caba-
tional prominence—stands as a compelling narrative of perseverance, service, ret, pop, and folk. Her work with leading composers and filmmakers made her
and cultural pride. His legacy continues to inspire, marking him as one of one of the most influential voices in Indian cinema.
Kutch’s most distinguished global ambassadors. Continued on next page... >>

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