American Punjabi Society | Community, Culture & Networking

APS Showcases Gala Highlights at 2025 Press Conference
2025-11-10 08:00 - 23:30 UTC | Plain view Gurdwara, 11065 Old Country Rd, New York, NY, 11803, United States
APS Team Press Conference,

The APS team led by President Gary Sikka organized a special press conference on November 10, 2025, to announce the Curtain Raiser for our Annual Gala, which will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Pearl Banquet Hall.
During the press conference, all leading media outlets were invited for the formal announcement of the highly prestigious Punjabi Rattan Global Award, which will be presented this year to a truly deserving honoree—an individual recognized for exemplary leadership, generosity, and dedicated service to the community.
The press conference also highlighted two major attractions of the upcoming Gala:
• Special appearance by renowned Punjabi film actress Neeru Bajwa
• Live performance by celebrated Punjabi folk singer Miss Pooja
The event promises to be one of the most memorable celebrations of Punjabi pride, culture, and community service.
The highlights of the event as reported by Global Punjab is given below:.

Regards,
Paul S. Bindra
APS Vice President.

Sangrand Di Vadhai Samagam
2025-11-16 | Plain view Gurdwara, 11065 Old Country Rd, New York, NY, 11803, United States
Dear APS Family,
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa
Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh
Sunday Nov. 16,
Sangrand di lakh-lakh vadhai hove ji!
May Waheguru bless you and your family with
chardi kala, good health, sukh, and anand in this new month.
May the Guru’s light guide your mind and heart every day.
Those whose minds are filled with longing for God look truly beautiful,
because they remain in the presence of their Dear Lord.
Their glory cannot be measured,
for the Lord Himself unites them with Him.
Their body and mind blossom with the love of the Lord,
as they company with the holy saints.
Those who stay away from the company of saints
remain lonely and empty.
Their suffering never leaves them,
and they fall under the control of the Messenger of Death.
Those who enjoy and realize their own Lord
are always seen in a state of spiritual upliftment.
They wear the jewels, gems, and precious pearls
of the Lord’s Name around their necks (in their heart).
Nanak says: I long for the dust of their feet—
those who live in the sanctuary of God.
Those who meditate on God from deep within
are never born again. (They are freed from the cycle of birth and death.)
|| 10 ||

Regards,
Giani Amarjit Singh
Head Granthi
Waheguru Ji Mehar Karan.

Recognizing Dedication and Service: Mr. Mohinder Taneja
2025-11-17 08:00 - 23:30 | Plain view Gurdwara, 11065 Old Country Rd, New York, NY, 11803, United States
Dear APS Family,

Recognizing Dedication and Service: Mr. Mohinder Taneja
Heartfelt congratulations from the American Punjabi Society to Mr. Mohinder Taneja, Senior Vice President of APS, on being honored at the Celebration of Suburban Diversity 2025. This well-deserved recognition celebrates his unwavering dedication, selfless service, and extraordinary contributions to the community and the cause of humanity. His tireless efforts continue to inspire and uplift everyone around him, and the entire APS family is proud to stand beside him in this moment of honor. With deep appreciation and best wishes, Gary Sikka, Founder, Global President & CEO of the American Punjabi Society, along with the Founding Directors of APS and the APS Team, extend their warmest felicitations.

Regards,
Gary S. Sikka
President

APS Recognition Event
2025-11-17 17:30 - 22:00 | Nassau County Police Department, 130-30 28th Ave, Flushing, NY, United States
Dear APS Family,
.

APS Recognition Event
New York State Republican Chairman Hon. Edward Cox (Son-in-Law of Former President Nixon) & Indian American Community Leader & Founder Of Dream Hotel Group, Padma Bhushan Hon. Sant Singh Ji Chatwal honored by American Punjabi Society President Gary Sikka and Sr. Vice President Mohinder Singh Taneja as part of outreach initiatives.
Best regards,

Regards,
Paul S. Bindra
APS Vice President.

Safar-e-Shahadat: A Journey of Sacrifice
2025-11-17 17:30 - 22:00 | Nassau County Police Department, 130-30 28th Ave, Flushing, NY, United States
Dear APS Family,
.
Safar-e-Shahadat Samagam is a gathering dedicated to remembrance, reflection, and spiritual connection, honoring the legacy of sacrifice, courage, and resilience within the Sikh Panth. The samagam focuses on understanding the true meaning of Shahadat and the timeless values it represents through history, faith, and lived example.

Through soulful kirtan, meaningful kathas, and youth-led discussions, the program invites the sangat to reflect deeply on these teachings and their relevance in today’s world. Learning activities for children, collective remembrance, and langar further strengthen the spirit of unity, seva, and connection across generations

Regards,
Paul S. Bindra
APS Vice President.

350th Shaheedi Purab – Kirtan Darbar
2025-11-21 08:00 - 23:30 | Plain view Gurdwara, 11065 Old Country Rd, New York, NY, 11803, United States
Dear APS Family,
350th Shaheedi Purab of ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਤੇਗ ਬਹਾਦਰ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ, ਸਹੀਦੀ ਭਾਈ ਮਤੀ ਦਾਸ ਜੀ, ਭਾਈ ਸਤੀ ਦਾਸ ਜੀ, ਅਤੇ ਭਾਈ ਦਿਆਲਾ ਜੀ.
With the blessings of Waheguru Ji, Guru Gobind Singh Sikh Center (Plainview Gurdwara) humbly invites the entire Sangat to a Kirtan Darbar on Friday, November 21st, 2025, dedicated to the 350th Shaheedi Purab of
ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਤੇਗ ਬਹਾਦਰ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ,
Please join with your families to remember and honor the unmatched sacrifice and supreme martyrdom of these great souls.
📜 Program Schedule
6:30 pm – 7:00 pm – Path Sri Rehras Sahib
7:00 pm – 7:20 pm – Katha by Giani Amarjit Singh Ji
7:20 pm – 8:00 pm – Gurvichar by Giani Nirmal Singh Ji Dhulkot
8:00 pm – 9:00 pm – Kirtan by Bhai Betab Singh Ji
9:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Kirtan by Bhai Sukhjinder Singh Ji (Hazoori Ragi, Sri Darbar Sahib)
10:00 pm – 11:00 pm – Kirtan by Bhai Gurkirat Singh Ji (Hazoori Ragi, Sri Darbar Sahib)
11:00 pm – 11:30 pm – Kirtan by Children of Plainview Gurdwara.
Regards,
Paul S. Bindra
Vice President.

Film Star & Producer Shri Jaaved Jaaferi Ji
2025-11-21 16:00 - 23:30 | Capital Hill, Washington DC, Washington, WA, United States
Dear APS Family,
Famous Bollywood Film Star & Producer Shri Jaaved Jaaferi Ji (Films like “Singh is King” “3 Idiots”) with APS President Gary Sikka joined by Sr. VP Mohinder S. Taneja, Dr. Dipak Nandi and SBU Professor Mirza Irfan Beg at Mint Indian Restaurant in Garden City, Long Island, NY.

Regards,
APS TEAM

350th Shaheedi Purab – Guru Teg Bhadur ji
2025-11-25 08:00 - 22:30 | Plain view Gurdwara, 11065 Old Country Rd, New York, NY, 11803, United States
Dear APS Family,
350 ਵਾਂ ਸ਼ਹੀਦੀ ਦਿਵਸ ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਸ਼੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਤੇਗ ਬਹਾਦਰ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ
ਸ਼ਹੀਦੀ ਭਾਈ ਮਤੀ ਦਾਸ ਜੀ, ਭਾਈ ਸਤੀ ਦਾਸ ਜੀ, ਭਾਈ ਦਿਆਲਾ ਜੀ
Dear Sadh Sangat Ji,
With the blessings and grace of Waheguru Ji, Guru Gobind Singh Sikh Center, Plainview, NY, respectfully invites you and your family to join us for a special program dedicated to the
350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the Hind Di Chadar
, whose supreme sacrifice stands as a timeless beacon of courage, compassion, and freedom of faith.
📅 Program Details:
SUNDAY, November 23rd (Morning)
8:00 am – Arambh Sri Akhand Path sahib Ji
(Sewa By: Ravinder Singh, Baljinder Kaur & Family)
TUESDAY Nov 25
(Morning)
08:00 am – Bhog Sri Akhand Path sahib Ji
08:00 am – 09:30 am – Asa Di Vaar by Bhai Sukhjinder Singh ji(Hazoori Ragi Sri Darbar Sahib)
09:30 am – 10:00 am – Gurvichar by Giani Nirmal Singh Ji Dhulkot
10:30 am – Bhog Sri Sehaj Path sahib Ji
11:00 am – 12:30 pm – Path Sri Sukhmani Sahib by Sukhmani Sahib Parivaar
12:30 pm – 01:00 pm – Kirtan by Bhai Sukhjinder Singh ji(Hazoori Ragi Sri Darbar Sahib)
Followed By: Anand Sahib · Ardaas Benti · Sri Mukh Waak · Guru Ka Langar (Sewa By: Brijinder Singh, Jasbir Kaur & Family)
(Evening)
06:00 pm – 06:30 pm – Path Sri Rehras Sahib
06:30 pm – 07:00 pm – Katha by Giani Amarjit Singh Ji
07:00 pm – 08:00 pm – Kirtan by Bhai Sukhjinder Singh ji(Hazoori Ragi Sri Darbar Sahib)
08:00 pm – 08:30 pm – Gurvichar by Giani Nirmal Singh Ji Dhulkot
08:30 pm – 09:30 pm – Kirtan by Bhai Kirtan by Bhai Betab Singh ji Ludhiane wale
09:30 pm – 10:30 pm – Kirtan by Bhai Baljit Singh Ji (UK wale)
Followed By: Anand Sahib · Ardaas Benti · Sri Mukh Waak · Sukhasan Sahib Sewa, Guru Ka Langar (Sewa By: Ravel Singh & Family)
Regards,
Paul S. Bindra
Vice President.

Police Commissioner Meets APS Leadership
2025-12-03 17:30 - 22:00 | Nassau County Police Department, 130-30 28th Ave, Flushing, NY, United States
Dear APS Family,
.

Police Commissioner Meets APS Leadership
Nassau County Police Commissioner Hon. Patrick Ryder met with American Punjabi Society President Gary Sikka, Sr. Vice President Mohinder Singh Taneja, and Sunil Hali, Promoter & Publisher of Radio Zindagi and The Indian Eye, at the Police Academy Training Village.Best regards,

Regards,
Virender P.S. Sikka
Gen. Secretar.

AMERICAN PUNJABI SOCIETY ANNUAL GALA 2025 Upcoming
2025-12-10 | Pearl, 276 West old Country, RD Hicksville NY, 11801, United States
Dear APS Family,
🌟 AMERICAN PUNJABI SOCIETY ANNUAL GALA 2025 🌟
Celebrating Punjabi Heritage & Culture.
Get ready for an evening of elegance, entertainment, and celebration at the most anticipated event of the year!
The American Punjabi Society invites you to our Annual Gala 2025 as we proudly celebrate the rich Punjabi heritage.
Date: WEDNESDAY, 10 DECEMBER
Time: 7 PM ONWARDS
Venue: PEARL (276 West Old Country Rd, Hicksville, NY 11801)
Evening Highlights Include:
Special Guest Appearance: NEERU BAJWA
Live Music Performer: MISS POOJA
Gala Dinner: DINNER BUFFET + OPEN BAR
Leadership:
President: Gary S. Sikka
Vice Presidents: Paul S. Bindra, Ravinder PS Narang
APS Women’s Council Chairperson: Navneet K. Sondhi

Press Gala APS 2025
2025-12-10 | Pearl Banquet Hall, 276 W Old Country Rd, Hicksville, NY, United States
APS Team Press Conference,
The APS team led by President Gary Sikka organized a special press conference on November 10, 2025, to announce the Curtain Raiser for our Annual Gala, which will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Pearl Banquet Hall.
Regards,
Paul S. Bindra
APS Vice President.

Philanthropist Harry Singh Bolla with prestigious “Punjabi Ratan” Award at a glittering gala 2025
2025-12-10 17:30 - 22:00 | Nassau County Police Department, 130-30 28th Ave, Flushing, NY, United States
American Punjabi Society honors Philanthropist Harry Singh Bolla with prestigious “Punjabi Ratan” Award at a glittering gala

Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, honoring Mr. Harry Singh Bolla. Seen in the picture, among others (from L to R): APS President Gary Sikka, (slightly turned) , Consul General Mr. Pradhan, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Honoree Harry Singh Bolla, and Nassau County Republican Party Chairman Joseph Cairo.
HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): In a night marked by celebration, cultural pride, and community spirit, the American Punjabi Society (APS) hosted its annual gala at the Pearl Banquet in Hicksville, Long Island, honoring distinguished businessman and philanthropist Harry Singh Bolla with the coveted Punjabi Ratan (Punjabi Jewel) Award. The event drew a distinguished gathering of political leaders, administrative officials, community stalwarts, and the crème de la crème of the Punjabi-American diaspora, underscoring APS’s standing as one of the most influential Punjabi cultural organizations in the region. The more prominent guests included the Consul General of India, Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan who handed over the award to Mr. Bolla, Sant Singh Chatwal, one of the two Patrons of the APS, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and Nassau County Republican Party Chairman Joseph Cairo.
Founded with the mission of promoting Punjabi language, culture, and heritage across generations, the APS has spent years cultivating a strong artistic and cultural presence on Long Island. Under the leadership of its President, Gary Sikka, and his committed team of volunteers, the organization has become a vibrant hub for community engagement, cultural programming, youth education, and charitable initiatives. This year’s gala, one of APS’s most successful events to date, reaffirmed the society’s role as a bridge between tradition and the evolving Punjabi-American identity.
The centerpiece of the evening was the conferral of the Punjabi Ratan Award upon Harry Singh Bolla, a self-made entrepreneur whose story has inspired countless immigrants. Rising from modest beginnings to building a thriving chain of businesses in the gas station and retail sector, Mr. Bolla’s journey is often described as a classic American dream narrative. Yet what truly distinguishes him, APS leaders emphasized, is not the scale of his success, but the depth of his philanthropy.
For years, Mr. Bolla and his wife Kamaljit Kaur—both devout Sikhs—have been major contributors to their local gurdwaras, supporting religious programs and community initiatives generously and consistently. “The first thing Harry did when his business began to grow was open his purse for charity,” said an attendee, noting that his humility remains intact despite his financial accomplishments.
A committed Republican, Mr. Bolla believes strongly in civic responsibility. He frequently asserts that once an immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, “America becomes your home, and its welfare becomes your primary duty.” This guiding principle informs much of his philanthropic work in the United States. Through the Bolla Charity Foundation, he has supported several American institutions, the most notable being his recent $1 million donation to modernize the Nassau County Police Academy—a contribution praised widely by county officials and community leaders alike.
Despite his devotion to America, Mr. Bolla has never turned away from the land of his birth. Over the years, he has funded numerous welfare, educational, and community development projects in his home state of Punjab. His charitable spirit, he often says, is a legacy from his father, who is remembered in Punjab as a man of deep generosity and compassion.
This year, Punjab faced devastating floods that ravaged entire districts, leaving thousands homeless, jobless,
and struggling for basic necessities. Moved by the widespread suffering, Mr. Bolla committed ₹5 crore—over half a million U.S. dollars—as an initial donation to assist displaced families. Speaking to The Indian Panorama, he expressed deep concern about ensuring that his contribution reaches those who genuinely need help. “My only worry is that every rupee benefits the deserving,” he said, adding that he is working with trusted channels to ensure a fair and transparent distribution system.
APS officials noted that in choosing Mr. Bolla for the Punjabi Ratan Award, the organization was guided not only by his financial success but by his humanity. “Harry Bolla embodies the best of us,” said APS President Gary Sikka. “He represents hard work, humility, success, and the Punjabi tradition of giving from the heart.”
The gala was a grand affair, marked by elegance and vibrant cultural expressions. Political and administrative dignitaries attended in large numbers, lending the event a stature befitting its purpose. The ballroom resonated with Punjabi pride as community leaders mingled with elected officials and special guests.
Entertainment for the evening featured an engrossing musical performance by Pooja, a well-known and widely admired singer who enthralled the audience with a blend of classic and contemporary Punjabi melodies. The crowd erupted in applause as cinema star Neeru Bajwa—an international icon of Punjabi film—made a special guest appearance, surprising attendees and delighting fans.
The artistic program complemented the evening’s larger theme: a celebration not just of individual accomplishment, but of the collective strength of the Punjabi community in America.
In his remarks, APS President Gary Sikka reaffirmed the society’s commitment to cultural promotion, youth engagement, and community solidarity. He praised the volunteers whose tireless efforts ensured the success of the gala and emphasized the importance of sustaining Punjabi language and values among younger generations.
“This award to Harry Bolla is not just about honoring one man,” Sikka said. “It is about reminding ourselves of what our community stands for—hard work, compassion, family, and pride in our heritage. Tonight, we celebrate all of that.”
The event concluded with a standing ovation for Mr. Bolla, whose humility shone through as he dedicated the honor to his family, his community, and the values that shaped him. For those in attendance, the evening was a vivid reminder of how cultural pride, service, and generosity continue to define the Punjabi-American spirit.

Annual Gala-2025 by American Punjabi Society
2025-12-10 17:30 - 23:30 | Pearl Banquet Hall, 276 W Old Country Rd, Hicksville, NY, United States
Padma Bhushan recipient Sant Singh Chatwal

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The American Punjabi Society (APS) hosted its spectacular Annual Gala at the Pearl Banquet Hall

Download AMERICAN PUNJABI SOCIETY 2025 Journal

The American Punjabi Society (APS) hosted its spectacular Annual Gala at the Pearl Banquet Hall, bringing together dignitaries, business leaders, philanthropists, artists, and community members for an evening celebrating Punjabi heritage, service, and unity.
Founded with the mission of promoting Punjabi language, culture, and heritage across generations, the APS has spent years cultivating a strong artistic and cultural presence on Long Island. Under the leadership of its President, Gary Sikka, and his committed team of volunteers, the organization has become a vibrant hub for community engagement, cultural programming, youth education, and charitable initiatives. This year’s gala, one of APS’s most successful events to date, reaffirmed the society’s role as a bridge between tradition and the evolving Punjabi-American identity.

The centerpiece of the evening was the conferral of the Punjabi Ratan Award upon Harry Singh Bolla, a self-made entrepreneur whose story has inspired countless immigrants. Rising from modest beginnings to building a thriving chain of businesses in the gas station and retail sector, Mr. Bolla’s journey is often described as a classic American dream narrative. Yet what truly distinguishes him, APS leaders emphasized, is not the scale of his success, but the depth of his philanthropy.

In his remarks, APS President Gary Sikka reaffirmed the society’s commitment to cultural promotion, youth engagement, and community solidarity. He praised the volunteers whose tireless efforts ensured the success of the gala and emphasized the importance of sustaining the Punjabi language and values among younger generations.

WINTER WEAR DRIVE FOR KIDS IN NEED
2025-12-27 | Krafty Hands, 49 IRA Road, syosset, NY, 11791, United States
WINTER WEAR DRIVE FOR KIDS IN NEED
We’re excited to announce that APS is organizing a Winter Wear Drive to support children in need this season.
A center in Huntington reached out to us with an urgent request for winter clothing—many kids are without proper
jackets, hats, and gloves as the cold weather sets in.
APS Women’s Council, under the leadership of Navneet Sondhi, has successfully concluded the Winter Coat Drive today, December 27th.
However, winter wear items—hats, gloves, and jackets—can still be dropped off, and all collected items will be delivered on Monday, December 29th.
Thank you for your continued support in keeping families warm this winter. Together, we make a difference ❄️🧥
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
If you’d like to donate NEW jackets, hats, and gloves:

Drop off items at one of the locations listed on the flyer
Contact one of the admins to coordinate a drop-off

If you’d like us to purchase items on your behalf:

Zelle your donation as noted in the flyer, and we’ll handle the shopping for you

Please see the attached flyer for all drop-off locations and Zelle details.
Thanks
APS Women’s Council

APS Women Council : Turning Letters to Santa into Smiles
2025-12-28 | Northwell Family Health Center, 270 Park Avenue, Huntington, 11743, United States
Turning Letters to Santa into Smiles 🎄
Dear APS team,
The APS Women’s Council, under the leadership of Navneet Sondhi, brought Christmas joy to children at Northwell Family Health Center in Huntington, turning their letters to Santa into real smiles and happiness.*”
Heartfelt thanks to Navneet ji and her dedicated team, consisting of Shweta Malhotra, Binny Kaur, Swati Anand, Priyanka Khanna, Harleen Jolly, Jessica Kalra, Dr. Taranjeet Ahuja, and to the Northwell Health staff, for making this beautiful initiative possible.
Pradeep Tandon and the entire APS Leadership Team
American Punjabi Society (APS)

APS Adventure: Join the Norwegian EPIC Cruise!
2026-08-30 07:00 - 23:30 | Barcelona to Rome, Norweign Ship
Download Norwegian EPIC Cruise Journal

Dear APS Family
The American Punjabi Society (APS) invites you to join an incredible journey on the high seas—the Norwegian EPIC Cruise! This exclusive 7-night European adventure offers a blend of relaxation, exploration, and community networking, all while sailing from the vibrant city of Barcelona to historic Rome.
Event Details & Leadership Event
APS Norwegian EPIC CruiseTravel

Dates August 23 – 30, 2026
Duration 7 Nights
Itinerary: Barcelona, Spain to Rome, Italy

Day 1, Barcelona check time will be posted 8/23/26. Departure Time 4.30 PM
Day 2 Marseille, France 8/24/26 From 7 AM to Departure time 4 PM
Day 3 Nice / Monaco/ France Arrival at Port AM Departure time 6 pm from Nice
Day 4th Livorno / Florence, Italy Arrival 7 am, departure 11.59 pm
Day 5th at Sea
Day6th Messina, Italy Arrival 7 Am Departure 6 pm
Day 7th, Amalfi Coast, Italy Arrival 7 Am Departure 6 pm
Day 8th date 8/30/26Rome ( Italy ) Arrival time 6 AM

Led by: APS President, Mr. Gary S. Sikka Ji

Regards,
Paul S. Bindra
APS Vice President.
