(By Our Staff Reporter) : Hicksville, NY - November 10, 2025: The American Punjabi Society (APS) hosted a successful Curtain Raiser and Media Briefing at the Pearl, Hicksville, officially announcing preparations for the APS Annual Gala 2025 to be held on December 10th at Pearl Banquet Hall.
Speakers & Presentations
Varinder P. S. Sikka, General Secretary, welcomed community leaders and media, sharing how APS began as an initiative between himself and Mr. Gary S. Sikka, later established under the leadership of seven Founder Directors: President Gary S. Sikka, Senior Vice President Mohinder Singh Taneja, General Secretary Varinder P.S. Sikka, Vice Presidents Ajayvir S. Sondhi, Paul S. Bindra, R.P.S. Narang, and Jaspal S. Arora.
Mr. Sunil Hali, Publisher of The Indian Eye, spoke about Sikhism and the values of unity, compassion, and service that define community life.
Pradeep Tandon, Director of Media & Public Relations, started the presentation "APS - Celebrating Culture, Service & Community." He shared: "APS was founded with a simple but powerful purpose - to unite the Punjabi community under the spirit of service and pride. Over the years, APS has become a bridge between generations, blending culture with compassion. We take pride in celebrating our heritage while contributing to the welfare of our local and global communities. This evening is about celebrating community, culture, and compassion - the values that define APS".
Vice President Ajayvir S. Sondhi explained the structure of APS Councils, while Navneet Sikka Sondhi, Chair - Women's Council, highlighted the organization's community engagement and women-led initiatives.
Senior Vice President Mohinder Singh Taneja emphasized APS's ongoing collaboration with Police Commissioner Pat Ryder to promote law-enforcement awareness, safety education, and community outreach.
APS Achievements and Introduction of the Global Punjabi Ratan Award
President Gary S. Sikka outlined APS achievements across 2023-2025, including Vaisakhi celebrations, cancer awareness programs, blood donation camps, medical lectures, APS Picnics, and the Bermuda Cruise.
In recognition of APS's impactful Health Awareness Programs, NYC Mayor Eric Adams honored President Gary S. Sikka with the prestigious 'Health Achiever of New York' Award on June 9, 2025, at Gracie Mansion.
President Gary Sikka announced two global prestigious annual honors: "Punjabi Ratan", known as "The Jewel of Punjab," which recognizes exceptional leadership, philanthropy, and service; and "Punjabi Virasat", the "Heritage Award," honoring those who preserve Punjabi culture, values, and global identity.
The Punjabi Ratan Award - meaning 'The Jewel of the Punjabi Community' - stands as APS's highest honor. It will be presented annually to an individual who embodies leadership, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to service. This award represents the true essence of being Punjabi - courage, compassion, humility, and community spirit. It is not merely a medal, but a symbol of gratitude from APS to those whose words, actions, and contributions inspire us all.
President Gary S. Sikka stated: "APS is not just an organization - it is a family bound by culture and service. Punjabi Ratan and Punjabi Virasat are honors that recognize the best of who we are. Our future lies in unity, and by bringing Indian-American associations together under one umbrella, we create strength, voice, and impact for all."
Special Guests at the APS Annual Gala
The Gala will be elevated by the presence of two extraordinary personalities who embody Punjabi pride on the world stage.
Neeru Bajwa, the international icon of Punjabi cinema, has carried Punjabi culture to global audiences through her exceptional talent, grace, and artistic achievements. Her journey in film continues to inspire millions across the diaspora, making her presence a moment of pride for the wider community.
Joining her is Miss Pooja, one of the most beloved voices of Punjabi folk music. Her music carries the rhythm, soul, and heartbeat of Punjab-transcending borders, generations, and cultures. She remains a cultural ambassador whose songs unite Punjabis across the world. Together, these two cultural powerhouses bring prestige, warmth, and artistic depth to the
Press & Media Present
The Curtain Raiser was covered by leading Indian-American media representatives, including: Sunil Hali (The Indian Eye), Radio Zindagi, Nick Grasso (Newsday), Rajeev Bhambri (The New India Abroad), Sunil Tristar (IndiaLife TV), TV Asia, ITV Gold, Prof. Indrajit Saluja (The Indian Panorama), Jay Jasbir Singh (Hum Hindustani), Deepak Dhiman (Jus TV), Pardeep Gill (Global Punjab), Munish Byala (5aab TV), Neela Pandya (The Indian Eye), Preet (Preetnama), Varinder Bhalla (Bollywood Insider), Kripa Ranjan Prasad (ITV Gold), and Sridhar Chillara (Mana TV, TV24).
Vice President Paul S. Bindra thanked the press for their coverage and continued support of APS initiatives.