Rochester, NY – June 22, 2025: The Dogra Art Foundation, in collaboration with the Indian Consulate in New York, proudly hosted an elegant sit-down dinner at the Memorial Art Gallery to welcome Consul General of India, Shri Binaya Pradhan ji, to the Greater Rochester community.
This special evening provided an opportunity for the Indian diaspora to engage directly with the Consulate, fostering connections, strengthening cultural ties, and celebrating the vibrant contributions of Indian Americans to the region.
We were especially fortunate to have Mrs. Monalisa Pradhan, wife of Consul General Pradhan ji, attend the event along with their two daughters, adding warmth and grace to the gathering.
The dinner was attended by over 180 distinguished guests and community leaders, including:
- Shri Binaya Pradhan ji, Consul General of India
- Mrs. Monalisa Pradhan and their two daughters
- Mayor Evans Malik
- Senator Jeremy Cooney
- Assembly Representative Susan Hughes
- Democratic Party Chair Stephen DeVay
- Town of Brighton Supervisor Bill Moehle and his wife Barbara Moehle
- Town of Pittsford Council Member Naveen Havannavar
- Professor Tom Warfield
We were also honored by the presence of Aiya and Amma, founders of the Srividya Temple, along with Sriganesh, President of the temple, and Shree Natarajan, Secretary of the temple, whose blessings and leadership continue to enrich our community.
In his keynote address, Consul General Pradhan congratulated the Indian diaspora on their successes in the United States and their vital contributions to its development. He shared data underscoring the growing collaboration and friendship between India and the United States, emphasizing the shared commitment to democracy, innovation, and cultural exchange. Local leaders, including Senator Cooney and Mayor Malik, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the role of the Indian community in enriching the region’s cultural and economic landscape.
The evening featured a captivating cultural program curated by Veena Ganeshan, including:
- A Vilon recital on Raag Desh,
- Graceful performances of Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, and
- Renditions of the national anthems of both India and the United States, honoring the two nations’ enduring bonds.
Guests were treated to a five-course gourmet dinner paired with fine wines, which was received with great appreciation. Consul General Pradhan remarked, “There are many Indian communities, but you do not get such wonderful food everywhere.”
The event was a testament to the Dogra Art Foundation’s commitment to bridging cultures, fostering understanding, and celebrating heritage through art, dialogue, and hospitality.
