Acknowledging the contributions of the Sikh community in the United States, Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Washington DC, praised the community as one of the most “established, respected, and prosperous.” She also described Sikhs as the “biggest bridge,” between India and the U.S.

A farewell reception was hosted in her honor by Founder and Chairman of Sikhs of America USA, Jesse Singh, at his residence in Crownsville, Maryland on February 16, 2025, as she concludes her tenure in Washington, D.C.

Expressing her gratitude, Ranganathan thanked Jesse Singh and his wife, Mona Singh, for their warm hospitality. She also acknowledged the presence of members from Sikhs of America, along with community leaders from the National Council of Asian Indian Associations (NCAIA), and others.

“We are wrapping up a very fulfilling innings here in the Embassy in Washington DC, and we are going back with a sense of satisfaction that we have achieved something. We have been part of the remarkable chapter of the India-US partnership,” added Ranganathan. “And we have been able to make some fantastic friends, some friendships which I’m sure will last beyond our departure from here, from this assignment.” 

Set to take on her next diplomatic role in Delhi, Ranganathan lauded the Sikh community for maintaining strong ties with India. She noted that they have embedded themselves in American culture while staying deeply connected to their Indian heritage. This is a true tribute to your “resilience and dedication,” she said.

She highlighted the Sikh community’s excellence across various fields, including politics, science and technology, academia, the military, and the arts. Sikh Americans have made both the United States and India proud through their achievements and contributions, she added.

Ranganathan also took a moment to acknowledge the significant contributions of Sikh American women, emphasizing their impact across industries.

While celebrating the community’s achievements, she also addressed the challenges the Sikh community has faced, from early discrimination to contemporary misunderstandings. “You have demonstrated amazing resilience,” she said underscoring their unwavering dedication to both their homeland and their adopted country. 

Jesse Singh praised Ranganathan for her behind-the-scenes efforts in strengthening US-India relations. “You have been instrumental in advancing our community and diplomatic ties, even when your work wasn’t always visible to the public,” he noted.

He also highlighted her support for the Sikh community, recalling instances when she was approachable and helpful in her role as Acting Ambassador.

Sajid Tarar from the Center for Social Change reflected on his personal connection to India and Pakistan, stating, he is half Indian and half Pakistani. He explained that his father was born in 1933 before the India-Pakistan partition that happened in 1947, adding “I often say on television that while Pakistan is my Motherland, India is my ‘Maasi’ (aunt).”

Recognizing India’s growing influence, Tarar added, “It’s remarkable. India’s rising.”

President of Overseas Friends of BJP-USA, Adapa Prasad, emphasized the resilience of US-India relations, stating, “Despite changes in administration, our diplomatic ties have remained strong, and we have come out stronger each time.” He thanked Ranganathan and the Embassy staff for their unwavering support.

Pavan Bezwada highlighted the collaboration between NCAIA and Sikhs of America in organizing community events. Noting that he has been in touch with the Embassy for the past two decades, he thanked the Embassy for its long-standing support.

CEO of the US-India SME Council and Director of Public Affairs for the Southern Asian Church, Elisha Pulivarti, praised Ranganathan’s leadership on behalf of the church’s 1,500 members. He also expressed gratitude for her two visits to the church and for the Embassy’s support in organizing a “Consular Camp,” at the church, where over 200 people availed passport, OCI, and other consular services.

President of Sikhs of America, Kanwaljit Singh Soni, underscored Ranganathan’s work for the past three years and said, “We will always remember you.” Vice President, Baljinder Singh speaking on behalf of NCAIA and Sikhs of America, expressed gratitude to Ranganathan for her years of service. He praised her commitment to supporting the community and wished her success in future endeavors.

Other community leaders commended Ranganathan’s leadership in strengthening U.S.-India relations, promoting women’s empowerment, and championing initiatives that benefit the diaspora.

Minister (Community Affairs) at the Embassy, Jagmohan, also acknowledged Ranganathan’s impact, stating, she has always been there as a “friend and guide,” to him and during her tenure the India-US relationship has strengthened.

In a special gesture, Jesse Singh thanked his sister-in-law for cancelling her birthday celebration to attend the farewell. He also acknowledged Inderpal Singh, who traveled from Seattle for the occasion.

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