San Francisco, 11 January (HS): World Hindi Day and NRI Day were observed with a grand cultural and literary programme at the ICC Hall in the Milpitas area of San Francisco, USA. From San Francisco, Guwahati resident noted social activist Dr. Prem Kant Chaudhary informed on Sunday that the event witnessed the collective participation of around 16 Indian diaspora organisations, which presented a vibrant showcase dedicated to the Hindi language, Indian culture, and the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The programme was inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp jointly by Consul General of India in San Francisco, Dr. K. Kriker Reddy, Deputy Consul General Rakesh Adlakha and UMPA President Ritesh Tandon. Following the inauguration, cultural performances by organisations representing various Indian states and diaspora groups filled the auditorium with the colours and spirit of Indian tradition.

Addressing the gathering in fluent Hindi, Dr. K. Kriker Reddy highlighted the various facilities and services provided by the Indian Consulate for the Indian diaspora. He noted with satisfaction the growing global reach and acceptance of Hindi, terming it an encouraging development. On the occasion, he also read out a goodwill message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and later felicitated representatives of participating organisations with mementoes and certificates.

On this occasion, Dr. Prem Kant Chaudhary—Chief Advisor of the Mithila Sanskritik Samanway Samiti, Secretary of Bihar Foundation Guwahati Chapter and former President and current Club Ambassador of Rotary Club of Guwahati West—honoured the guests with Mithila painting-adorned dupattas and Assamese phulam gamochas on behalf of Bihar Foundation and Rotary Club. He underscored the cultural unity of Assam and Bihar and recited an emotional poem on the occasion of World Hindi Day and NRI Day, which was warmly applauded by the audience.

Chairman of Bihar Foundation West Coast (California, USA), RK Sinha, also addressed the gathering, describing Hindi as a strong pillar of Indian identity and cultural unity. He said that despite living abroad, the Indian diaspora has kept the Hindi language and Indian values alive.

The poems, songs and dance performances presented during the programme reflected the creative strength of Hindi and the diversity of Indian culture. Several litterateurs, social workers and distinguished citizens were present as invited guests.

Speakers lauded the role of the Indian diaspora, stating that Hindi is not merely a language but a powerful carrier of emotions, values and civilisation, strengthening India’s identity on the global stage. The programme concluded with a collective resolve to promote Hindi and pass on Indian cultural values to future generations. ---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash