The Uttar Pradesh Federation of North America marked UP Diwas in New Jersey amidst severe cold on January 24, with temperatures plummeting to minus 14 degrees Celsius. Despite the harsh weather, members of the Uttar Pradesh community came together in large numbers to commemorate the day, showcasing strong cultural bonds and unity.
Organizers, in a press release, mentioned that the event received blessings and good wishes from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, whose address to the Pravasi Uttar Pradesh community was shared during the celebration. Congratulatory messages poured in from various dignitaries, including Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, and ministers from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, along with messages from Padma awardees, cultural personalities, and spiritual leaders.
Notable guests at the event included Piyush Singh from the Consulate General of India’s Media and Culture Department and Linden Mayor Derek Armstead. The program also garnered support from community organizations and leaders such as the Federation of Indian Associations, VHP America–New Jersey, BAJANA, and UPAGP. The event was organized by Prashant K S Dikshit, founder and trustee of UPFNA, and overseen by Neeta Tyagi, with a vote of thanks delivered by UPFNA President Amit Gupta in the presence of trustees and office bearers.
A special moment was the collective rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ to commemorate its 150th anniversary, along with the distribution of Sacred Prasad from the Shri Ram Lalla Temple in Ayodhya. Uttar Pradesh Diwas is an annual observance on January 24, marking the state’s formation in 1950. The New Jersey event highlighted the vital role of diaspora groups in upholding cultural connections and celebrating regional identity across international borders.
