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New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga joined Consul General Dadhiram Bhandari, community leaders, and residents on June 11, 2026, for the 3rd Annual Nepali Community Day celebration, recognizing the Nepali community’s cultural heritage, civic engagement, and growing contributions across Queens and New York State.
The event was co-sponsored by Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha and Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris.
According to a statement from Assemblymember Raga’s office, more than 25 attendees participated in the gathering, which featured cultural celebrations, community recognition, and civic engagement. The program included remarks from elected officials and community leaders, followed by a ceremony honoring individuals whose leadership and service have positively impacted communities across New York.
This year’s honorees were Basanti Rai, Pradip Shrestha, Prabin KC, Laxmi Devi Thapa, Shrijana Tuladhar, Vishnu Rana Magar, Bimala Hamal Shrestha, Prava Adhikari, and Urgen Sherpa.
“The Nepali community is an essential part of the story of Queens and of New York,” said Raga. “Through public service, cultural preservation, and community leadership, Nepali New Yorkers have helped make our neighborhoods stronger, more welcoming, and more vibrant. Today is an opportunity not only to celebrate Nepali culture and heritage, but also to recognize the individuals whose dedication and hard work continue to uplift our communities. I am proud to stand alongside our Nepali neighbors and celebrate their many contributions.”
Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris highlighted the community’s growing presence in Queens.
“Nepali-Americans are a growing part of the fabric of our Queens community,” said Gianaris. “It is an honor to celebrate the Nepali community alongside Assemblymember Steven Raga, and to continue this annual tradition that highlights their important values and beautiful culture.”
Consul General Bhandari thanked the organizers for recognizing the contributions of the Nepali diaspora and emphasized the community’s role in strengthening ties between Nepal and the United States.
“I am pleased to join the beloved leaders of our community, Honorable Steven Raga and Honorable Sarahana Shrestha, New York State Assembly Members,” said Bhandari. “I extend my sincere appreciation to Hon. Raga and Hon. Shrestha for recognizing the contributions and rich cultural heritage of the Nepali diaspora in New York.”
Bhandari noted that the Nepali diaspora remains an important partner in Nepal’s development and serves as a vital bridge between Nepal and the United States. He said Nepali Americans contribute to the social, economic, and cultural life of their communities while preserving Nepal’s traditions and identity.
“I and my office remain committed to working closely with the Nepali community to promote our shared heritage and support the aspirations of Nepalis across our jurisdiction. I warmly congratulate everyone celebrating Nepali Community Day and commend all those whose efforts have made this meaningful occasion possible,” he added.
Raga also expressed appreciation to community leaders, volunteers, and partner organizations that helped organize the event. He additionally thanked MomoCrave for donating traditional Nepali momos for attendees.
Shreeya Tuladhar, a member of the New York State Assembly District 30 Advisory Council, described the event as a reflection of the Nepali American community’s growth and civic participation.
“Nepali Community Day is more than a celebration, it is a testament to the growth, resilience, and civic engagement of the Nepali-American community in New York. Seeing elected officials, community leaders, honorees, and residents come together to recognize the contributions of intergenerational, cross-sector Nepali-Americans across the city and strengthen community connections proved that when a community organizes with intention, it doesn’t just take up space, it shapes the room,” said Tuladhar.
Tuladhar said it had been an honor to support the annual tradition alongside community leaders and elected officials, adding that such events demonstrate both the progress immigrant communities have made and the opportunities that lie ahead.
“I am hopeful that we continue turning celebration into action, showing up for one another, and breaking barriers across every space we enter,” she added.
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