Virginia State Senators Ghazala Hashmi, Kannan Srinivasan, and Saddam Salim have praised South Asian Herald and its Founder & Editor-in-Chief, T. Vishnudatta Jayaraman, for “impressive,” contributions in fostering “high-caliber journalism,” in the Commonwealth and across the nation.

The Grand Launch of the South Asian Herald on March 6, 2025, at Intelligent Office, Virginia, was attended by Senators Hashmi, Srinivasan, and Salim, along with Congressman Shri Thanedar, elected officials, community leaders, business champions, and diplomats.

“I’m so delighted that we are honoring Vishnu, but more importantly, I think we’re honoring South Asian Herald. And what an accomplishment,” said Senator Hashmi.

Reflecting on Jayaraman’s vision, she remarked, “As I was sitting and listening to the vision that you had, Vishnu, about the work that you were doing, this was truly not just an aspiration, but a calling—to ensure that you were covering and representing news that matters.”

She emphasized the significance of launching the South Asian Herald at a time of media uncertainty, stating, “What strikes me in particular is that at a time when we are feeling the crisis of the media – the lack of informational clarity, when we don’t know where to trust, who to look for to find information that is true, accurate, objective, and enlightening – it’s impressive that you’ve taken on this task.”

She called the South Asian Herald’s launch as “impressive,” at a time when there are many newspapers and so many media outlets sadly closing. “We see a consolidation of information and not a proliferation, so you are doing a profound act of service in continuing the true calling of journalism,” added Hashmi, the first Indian American to be elected to the VA State Senate.

Referencing Congressman Thanedar’s comments about once aspiring to be a journalist, Hashmi shared a personal anecdote: “My father wanted me to be a journalist as well. He kept encouraging me. I disappointed him. Sadly, I did not do that.”

Praising the South Asian Herald’s impact, she expressed optimism for its role in shaping “high-caliber journalism,” that represents the broader community. “More importantly, covering stories that often otherwise would never be told. And these are our stories,” she noted.

On behalf of the Virginia Asian American Pacific Islander Caucus, the Senate of Virginia, and the House of Delegates, Senators Hashmi and Srinivasan presented a commendation recognizing South Asian Herald. “This commendation is for the incredible work that you are doing and the integrity of your profession,” Hashmi told Jayaraman.

Senator Srinivasan recalled being “inspired,” when he first met Jayaraman, recognizing his dedication to journalism. “He does extraordinary work and is a treasure for our community because journalism is not an easy profession. It’s very hard. Takes a ton of time,” he said.

Reflecting on his first exclusive interview with Jayaraman, Srinivasan praised Jayaraman’s professionalism. “Within five minutes, I could see he was not only just a professional but very sharp. He chooses his words and sentences very carefully. He also checks back to ensure accuracy,” he recounted.

Srinivasan emphasized that he was not only impressed by Jayaraman’s extensive experience with numerous Indian news outlets but also by his decision to establish himself in Loudoun County, which Srinivasan represents. “I’m very fond of anyone willing to take on entrepreneurship. It’s a lot of risk, but it has a lot of reward,” said Srinivasan, an entrepreneur himself. 

Srinivasan also shared his personal journey of overcoming challenges as an immigrant, recalling the struggles he had to endure with insurance companies following an accident in 1993. While the insurance covered 80 per cent, he was responsible to pay the remaining 20 per cent. At that time, someone recommended he should get on Medicaid, but he was ineligible for Medicaid as a foreign student. 

In 2017 Governor Terry McAuliffe appointed him to the Medicaid Board of Virginia – the same Medicaid coverage he was not eligible to apply for back in 1993. Then Governor Ralph Northam re-appointed him to the Medicaid Board, and under Governor Glenn Youngkin, Srinivasan ultimately became Chairman of Virginia Medicaid Board. 

“It’s such an honor that someone who could not get on Medicaid 30 years ago is now the chairman of Virginia’s Medicaid Board,” he noted, crediting America’s opportunities.

Srinivasan highlighted Jayaraman’s contributions to the diaspora, recalling he recognized Jayaraman in the VA House of Delegates in 2024 when he received the Distinguished Service Award from then-Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Taranjit Sandhu, and Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears for advancing media coverage of the Indian diaspora and for fostering US-India relations.

“I was very glad to host him and his family on the House floor,” Srinivasan said, inviting Jayaraman to the Senate chamber next.

Senator Salim also congratulated South Asian Herald, emphasizing its role in amplifying South Asian voices. “As a South Asian state senator, I recognize the critical importance of having our voices represented and amplified. The South Asian community in America is a dynamic force, yet our stories often go untold,” added Salim. “South Asian Herald will fill this void, ensuring our perspectives are shared, our challenges are addressed, and our successes are highlighted.”

Acknowledging the need for responsible journalism, he added, “At a time when reliable journalism is crucial, South Asian Herald has the potential to inform, empower, and unite us. I commend the team for their commitment to this important work.”

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