USA
ROAR Celebrates a Decade of Culture and Community at 10th Annual Teej Mahotsav 2026 in New Jersey: The Rajasthani Organization of American Residents (ROAR) marked a milestone with the grand celebration of its 10th Annual Teej Mahotsav 2026, bringing together thousands of community members, dignitaries, business leaders, families, artists, and cultural enthusiasts for one of the largest and most authentic celebrations of Rajasthan outside India.
The spectacular evening celebrated Rajasthan’s vibrant traditions, rich cultural heritage, and strong sense of community, while also highlighting ROAR’s growing commitment to education, youth empowerment, and philanthropy.
The festivities commenced with a magnificent Teej Mata Procession, featuring a beautifully adorned camel, traditional dhwajas, temple bells, and enthusiastic chants of “Jai Teej Mata.” Women dressed in colorful Rajasthani attire danced gracefully to the rhythms of dhol and traditional folk music, creating an atmosphere of devotion, celebration, and cultural pride.
Guests were treated to an impressive cultural extravaganza featuring authentic Rajasthani folk dances, energetic men’s performances, the iconic Ghoomar dance, youth cultural presentations, and the much-awaited International Rajasthan Pageant 2026. The celebration reached its pinnacle with an electrifying live concert by renowned Bollywood playback singer Vineet Singh, who traveled from India especially for the milestone event and captivated the audience with a memorable musical performance.
One of the evening’s most significant announcements was the official launch of The Sanganak Initiative by the Youth of Rajasthan (YOR). The charitable initiative aims to modernize government schools across Rajasthan by establishing computer laboratories and providing access to technology for underprivileged students. The initiative reflects ROAR’s vision of extending its impact beyond cultural celebrations by investing in education and digital empowerment.
The event also recognized outstanding individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on society.
The prestigious Bhamashah Award was presented to Mr. Piyush Patel during a grand traditional ceremony featuring ceremonial drum rolls and the royal Pagdi Ceremony, honoring his generosity, philanthropy, and service to the community.
The Women Achiever Award was presented to Mrs. Beena Kothari, who was honored with a traditional royal Rajasthani dupatta and ceremonial drum rolls in recognition of her decades of leadership, philanthropy, and dedication to community service.
The International Rajasthan Pageant 2026 crowned a new generation of cultural ambassadors:
- Sanju Purohit – Mrs. Rajasthan International 2026
- Mati Rajvanshi – Miss Rajasthan International 2026
- Tanvi Agrawal – Miss Teen Rajasthan International 2026
- Akansha Jain – Teej Queen 2026
ROAR also recognized the continued support and contributions of former pageant winners Payal Sharma, Millie Rajput, and Bhavana Nigam, whose involvement continues to strengthen the organization’s mission. Special appreciation was extended to Bhavana Nigam for sponsoring the beautiful welcome dupattas presented to guests.
The celebration was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Mayor Neena Singh, Councilman Viru Patel, and Councilman Rajesh Mehta, along with respected community leaders and ROAR patrons Haridas Kotahwala, Naveen Shah, Parmeshwar Soni, Chandra Sukhwal, and C. P. Joshi, whose continued guidance and support have played an important role in the organization’s growth.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of ROAR President Tarang Soni, whose tireless leadership, vision, and months of dedicated planning transformed the organization’s 10th anniversary celebration into one of the most successful cultural events in its history. Working alongside the organizing committee, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners, Soni led an extraordinary effort that united thousands in celebrating Rajasthan’s heritage.
The organization also applauded the remarkable efforts of the Youth of Rajasthan (YOR) under the leadership of President Atharva Soni and the entire YOR Board for inspiring young leaders while preserving Rajasthan’s traditions for future generations.
ROAR expressed heartfelt gratitude to its dedicated volunteers, whose selfless commitment ensured the event’s success. Special recognition was given to Shailesh Paliwal, Lavanya Vyas, Jeet Rawal, Sanju Purohit, Sanjay Sharma, Sachin Jain, Pradeep Sharma, Bhushan Mittal, Navita Goyal, Ritu Diwan, Nandita Jain, Megan Mehnot, Shweta Tulsyan, and Shweta Thakral, along with the many volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Special appreciation was also extended to Eric Diamani for choreographing the International Rajasthan Pageant, refining dance performances, coordinating backstage operations, and serving as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. ROAR further acknowledged the unwavering support of Albert Jasani, owner of Royal Albert Palace, whose partnership and hospitality over several months were instrumental in making the celebration a grand success.
Guests also enjoyed an authentic culinary journey through Rajasthan with traditional delicacies including Dal Baati Churma, Sangri ki Sabzi, and Ghevar, bringing the flavors of Rajasthan to New Jersey.
The organization expressed sincere appreciation to its generous sponsors, including Navika Group, Blue Sky Hospitality, RIU, Bikaji, Protrude Technologies, Saffaltech, 9Lakha Jewelers, Tanishq, Sukh Sagar Restaurant, Chauhaan Jewellers, Royal Albert Palace, Mandap Milap, and numerous other sponsors whose support made the event possible.
ROAR also thanked its media partners, along with journalists, photographers, videographers, and media professionals whose extensive coverage helped share the celebration with audiences across the United States and around the world.
Adding further prestige to the occasion, ROAR acknowledged the congratulatory messages and blessings received from Ms. Mikie Sherrill, Governor of New Jersey, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan, His Royal Highness Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur, and His Royal Highness Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur, whose messages underscored the significance of the milestone celebration.
Reflecting on the success of the event, ROAR President Tarang Soni said:
“Teej Mahotsav is much more than a festival. It is a celebration of our identity, our roots, and our responsibility to preserve Rajasthan’s rich heritage for future generations. Seeing thousands of people united in culture, tradition, and community service fills us with immense pride. This success belongs to every member, volunteer, sponsor, media partner, dignitary, performer, and supporter who believed in our vision. Together, we have not only celebrated Rajasthan—we have strengthened our community and built a legacy that will continue for generations.”
As ROAR celebrates a decade of successfully organizing Teej Mahotsav in New Jersey, the organization remains committed to preserving Rajasthan’s cultural heritage, empowering youth, supporting charitable initiatives, and strengthening community bonds across the United States while inspiring future generations to stay connected to their roots.
