Page 15 - The Indian EYE 121225

NORTH AMERICAN Newsline DECEMBER 12, 2025 | The Indian Eye 15

Pradeep Tandon Director Media and Public Relations APS Paul Bindra Vice President

noted a major recognition for APS’s
health initiatives: on June 9, 2025,
New York City Mayor Eric Adams
honoured him with the “Health
Achiever of New York” Award at
Gracie Mansion. Sikka introduced
two prestigious annual APS honours
— Punjabi Ratan and Punjabi Vira-
sat. Punjabi Ratan, known as “The
Jewel of Punjab,” recognises excep-
tional leadership, philanthropy and
service, while Punjabi Virasat, the
“Heritage Award,” honours those
who preserve Punjabi culture, val-
ues and global identity. Describing
the importance of the awards, Sikka
said, “APS is not just an organiza-
tion — it is a family bound by cul- Members - American Punjabi Society
ture and service. Punjabi Ratan and
Punjabi Virasat are honors that rec- Ajayvir Sondhi Vice President >
ognize the best of who we are. Our
future lies in unity, and by bring-
ing Indian-American associations cocktail hour beginning at 7:00 p.m.
together under one umbrella, we and the main program commencing
create strength, voice, and impact at 8:00 p.m. Guests opting for the
for all.” He added that the Punjabi VIP experience will enjoy priority
Ratan Award is not merely a med- seating, exclusive meet-and-greet
al but “a symbol of gratitude from opportunities with Neeru Bajwa
APS to those whose words, actions, and dedicated interaction with dig-
and contributions inspire us all.” nitaries and honorees.
The 2025 Annual Gala will be The Curtain Raiser received ex-
elevated by the presence of two cul- tensive coverage from leading Indi-
tural icons. Neeru Bajwa, celebrat- an-American media outlets, includ-
ed globally for her contributions to ing The Indian Eye, Radio Zindagi,
Punjabi cinema, has carried Punjabi Newsday, The New India Abroad, In-
identity to international audiences diaLife TV, TV Asia, ITV Gold, The
with her talent and artistic achieve- Indian Panorama, Hum Hindustani,
ments. Joining her is Miss Pooja, Jus TV, Global Punjab, 5aab TV,
one of the most cherished voices Bollywood Insider, ITV Gold, Mana
of Punjabi folk music, whose songs TV and TV24. Vice President Paul S.
embody the soul and rhythm of Pun- Bindra thanked journalists for their
jab and resonate with communities support and continued engagement
worldwide. Their participation adds with APS initiatives.
prestige and emotional resonance As APS prepares for its Decem-
to the gala, underscoring APS’s ber celebration, the organisation con-
commitment to blending cultural tinues to expand its footprint across
pride with community celebration. New York through cultural outreach,
The event will take place at community service, and collabora-
the Pearl Banquet Hall, 276 W Old tions that strengthen Punjabi iden-
Country Road, Hicksville, with a tity and unity across generations.

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