Hundreds of Indian American Physicians Attend 6th Annual AAPI-NJ Gala. The Imperia Banquet Hall in Somerset, New Jersey, was abuzz with excitement as over 300 Indian American physicians gathered for the 6th Annual Gala of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin-New Jersey Chapter (AAPI-NJ). The sold-out event, held in the heart of the Garden State, showcased a vibrant mix of networking, recognition, entertainment, and philanthropy.
The gala kicked off with an elegant lamp-lighting ceremony, graced by notable figures such as Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media, and AAPI-NJ President Dr. Sudha Nahar. The evening’s agenda seamlessly blended professional recognition with cultural highlights, including Bollywood performances, live violin melodies, and a lavish sit-down dinner. Vendors offering healthcare-related products and services added a dynamic touch to the event, fostering connections and opportunities.
Honoring Excellence in Healthcare
AAPI-NJ used the occasion to honor several leaders in healthcare. Among those recognized were:
- Dr. Rachana Kulkarni, Regional Director of Cardiology at Robert Wood Johnson and Chair of AAPI-NJ Board of Trustees.
- Amie Thornton, Chief Hospital Executive at JFK Medical Center, and Patricia Carroll, President and Chief Hospital Executive of Old Bridge Medical Center and Raritan Bay Medical Center, both representing Hackensack Meridian Health.
- Achintya Maulik, CEO of CarePoint, for his visionary contributions to healthcare.
Dr. Nahar emphasized the importance of Continuing Medical Education (CME) to keep physicians updated with the rapidly evolving medical landscape. “CME ensures that we remain at the forefront of medical innovation and patient care,” she noted.
Reflecting on Growth and Giving
Dr. Raj Bhayani, a founding member, recounted AAPI-NJ’s remarkable journey since its inception six years ago. “From our very first sold-out gala in 2018 to raising $300,000 for charity during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment to community and purpose,” he said.
Dr. Binod Sinha, Past President of AAPI-NJ, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the chapter’s philanthropic initiatives. Organizations supported by AAPI-NJ include Akshaya Patra USA, Cancer Research, and the South Asian Community Health Initiative (SACHI), among others.
Shaping the Future of South Asian Healthcare
Keynote speaker Dr. Maulik urged the community to focus on advancing knowledge tailored to the unique needs of the South Asian population. “While 25% of the world’s population is Indian, our representation in research and medical guidelines remains limited,” he pointed out, advocating for greater efforts in innovation and education.
Dr. Kulkarni shared her vision for deeper engagement and lasting impact. “This evening is not just about celebrating our achievements but also about inspiring new goals for the future,” she said. “Physicians of Indian origin are pillars of the healthcare system in New Jersey and the United States, driving innovation and providing invaluable services.”
A Night to Remember
As the evening drew to a close, attendees left inspired by the speeches, energized by the cultural performances, and proud of their collective achievements. AAPI-NJ’s gala was more than a celebration—it was a testament to the profound contributions of Indian American physicians to healthcare and the broader community.
With their dedication and vision, AAPI-NJ continues to strengthen its role as a vital bridge between medical excellence and community service.
About the Author
Indian American Dr. Shabana Parvez, MD FACEP, is the founder of Arlington Integrative Medical Center and a distinguished leader in the field, holding board certifications in Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Lifestyle Medicine. She is the U.S. Bureau Chief for The Desi Buzz, GCCStartup.News, and Startup Berita, where she contributes her insights on healthcare and innovation. As a committed member of the Academy of Integrative and Holistic Medicine, Dr. Parvez is also pursuing a Diploma in Naturopathic Medicine from the College of Medicine and Healing Arts in Leicester, UK. Certified in contemporary cupping skills, Hijama therapy, and leech therapy, she combines traditional healing techniques with modern medicine. Dr. Parvez is fluent in Spanish, French, Urdu, Hindi, and Arabic, enabling her to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds. A passionate foodie, she enjoys creating recipes, experimenting with recipe hacks, and finding ways to make meals healthier and more delicious.
