The Uttar Pradesh Federation of North America (UPFNA) proudly hosted the first-ever celebration of Uttar Pradesh Diwas in the United States on January 25, 2026, in New Jersey. Organizers described the occasion as historic, emphasizing the event’s significance in connecting the Pravasi Uttar Pradesh community abroad with their cultural roots.
Despite harsh winter conditions with temperatures dropping to –14°C, members of the Uttar Pradesh diaspora gathered enthusiastically, demonstrating their unity and love for their heritage.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Extends Blessings
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the attendees with an inspiring message, sending his blessings and goodwill to the Pravasi Uttar Pradesh community. Organizers noted that his words instilled pride and enthusiasm among participants, further strengthening the bond between the state and its global diaspora.
Dignitaries and Leaders Send Congratulatory Messages
The celebration received heartfelt messages and letters from prominent Indian leaders, including:
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Jitan Ram Manjhi, Union Minister (MSME), Government of India
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Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor, Jammu & Kashmir
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Arif Mohammad Khan, Governor of Bihar
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Jayveer Singh, Minister of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh
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J. P. S. Rathore, Minister of Cooperation, Uttar Pradesh
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Daya Shankar Singh, Minister of Transport, Uttar Pradesh
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Dr. Daya Shankar Mishra, Minister of AYUSH, Uttar Pradesh
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Dr. D. P. Singh, Educational Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh
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Krishan Pal Panwar, Cabinet Minister, Haryana
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Dr. Arvind Sharma, Minister of Tourism, Haryana
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Prof. R. B. Singh, Padma Bhushan awardee
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Kailash Kher, Padma Shri awardee
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Devkinandan Thakur, spiritual leader
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Prabal Pratap Singh, Co-founder, Aaj Tak
Chief Guests and Community Support
The Chief Guests of the event included:
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Piyush Singh, Consulate General of India – Media & Culture Department
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Derek Armstead, Mayor of Linden, New Jersey
The program also received active support from several prominent community organizations, including:
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FIA: Srujal Parikh (Joint Secretary), Priti Patel (Secretary), Alok Kumar (Board Member)
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VHP America – New Jersey: Sanjay Gupta (President)
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BJANA: Priti Kashyap (President) with Sushant (Vice President)
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UPAGP: Archana Sharma
Event Coordination and Program Highlights
The celebration was coordinated by Prashant K. S. Dikshit, Founder and Trustee of UPFNA, and conducted by Neeta Tyagi. The vote of thanks was delivered by Amit Gupta in the presence of Trustees Dr. Shiv Shahi and Amit Kumar. Other key office bearers included:
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Vice President: Alpana Singh
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Secretary: Alpana Pathak
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Treasurer: Saurabh Gupta
A special highlight of the program was the collective rendition of “Vande Mataram” in honor of the 150th anniversary of India’s patriotic song. Additionally, organizers distributed prasad from Shri Ram Lalla Temple in Ayodhya to all devotees present.
Significance of the Celebration
The UP Diwas celebration in New Jersey reflected the strong unity, cultural pride, and enthusiasm of the Uttar Pradesh diaspora. By bringing together community leaders, dignitaries, and citizens, the event highlighted the importance of preserving heritage and strengthening the connection between India and its global community.
