New Brunswick, NJ — The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) celebrated its 50th anniversary with a grand two-day Golden Jubilee Celebration and Bihar Conclave held on May 24–25, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

The event drew over 700 attendees from across North America and around the world, including participants from India, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Costa Rica. Held over the Memorial Day weekend, the conclave brought together members of the global diaspora, entrepreneurs, academics, government officials, and cultural ambassadors in what was described as one of the most significant diaspora gatherings focused on Bihar and Jharkhand.

With the theme “Celebrating Legacy, Inspiring the Future,” the conclave highlighted the cultural heritage, development stories, and global accomplishments of people from Bihar and Jharkhand. The inaugural ceremony on May 24 was attended by the Consul General of India in New York, Binaya S. Pradhan, who served as the Chief Guest. He praised BJANA’s role in strengthening diaspora ties and promoting the contributions of individuals from Bihar and Jharkhand on the global stage.

The conclave featured a wide array of distinguished guests, including Dr. Kris Singh, Founder and Chairman of Holtec International; Hasmukh Ranjan, CIO of AMD; Anand Kumar, Padma Shri awardee and founder of Super 30; Amit Choudhary, COO of Thoughtworks; Rohit Prasad, SVP at Amazon; Kumar Prashant, CEO of Mareana; and several academic leaders from premier institutions such as Princeton, Purdue, and Tufts University. The event also included notable figures from media and entertainment, including Sweta Singh, Managing Editor of AajTak; Akshara Singh, a popular Bhojpuri artist; and National Award-winning composer Bishakh Jyoti. The cultural finale featured a performance by Kailash Kher and the Kailasa Band, which was met with resounding applause.

Throughout the two-day celebration, attendees experienced a blend of cultural programming, expert panels, and business networking opportunities. Activities included the lighting of the ceremonial diya, the screening of a tribute film marking BJANA’s 50-year journey, and a district flag parade representing every district of Bihar and Jharkhand. The conclave also hosted panels on women’s empowerment featuring prominent female voices, cultural showcases led by youth performers, summits on healthcare and artificial intelligence, and a startup and investment conclave that included Shark Tank-style pitches.

A dedicated pavilion showcased the rich artistic traditions and tourism opportunities of Bihar and Jharkhand, featuring Madhubani and Sohrai paintings, tribal jewelry, and local textiles. Tourism promotion included destinations such as Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Netarhat, and Deoghar. Artisans were connected with potential investors and diaspora entrepreneurs, with sessions also focusing on sustainable tourism and regional economic revitalization.

Speakers throughout the event emphasized themes of education, unity, and global impact. Anand Kumar noted that BJANA, like Super 30, is about enabling potential and uplifting communities. Dr. Kris Singh reflected on the balance between one’s roots and future, stating that it is time for the diaspora to serve as a bridge of opportunity. Hasmukh Ranjan spoke to the limitless potential of the community and called for increased mentoring and collective investment.

The conclave was attended by a diverse cross-section of the global diaspora, including delegations from various U.S. states and a special delegation from Bihar led by Dr. Satyajit Singh. The event highlighted growing partnerships between the diaspora and home state governments, as well as the strengthening of cultural and economic ties.

BJANA President Sanjeev Singh closed the event by reflecting on the association’s 50-year journey, noting that it represented a legacy of service, unity, and resilience. He thanked the Governments of Bihar and Jharkhand and all participants for their support and affirmed that the event was not just a celebration of the past, but a launchpad for future collaboration and progress.

(Used under special arrangement with NIT)

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