FORDS, NJ — The Indo-American Cultural Association of Edison, NJ (IACA), one of the region’s oldest and most respected organizations, hosted a memorable memorial evening honoring the extraordinary leadership and selfless service of its former President and Trustee, the Late Natu Patel.
Held at the Royal Albert Palace (Nil Kamal Hall) in Fords, NJ, the solemn yet celebratory event paid tribute to Natu Patel’s more than three decades of unwavering commitment to community service by posthumously presenting him with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The grand gathering drew an esteemed crowd from across the tri-state area, including prominent physicians, pharmacists, community organizers, and organizational presidents who gathered to honor a true community pioneer.
The event was led by esteemed IACA Trustee, well-known pharmacist, and community leader Girish Soni alongside Pushpa Patel (wife of the late Chairman Dr. Rasikbhai Patel). The evening was gracefully emceed by Ronak Jani, while Trustee Krishnakant Sangani provided event direction. Seamless backstage technical operations were managed by youth volunteer Aayushman Jani, who oversaw audio and video production. Key organizational leadership, event coordination, and direction were spearheaded by committee leader Nitin Vyas, whose dedicated efforts earned high praise from attendees and committee members alike.
Highlights of the Evening:
Cultural & Musical Performances:
A spectacular, jubilant dance showcase presented by the acclaimed Sonalee Vyas Dance Company (Sonalee.com).
Moving, heart-touching musical renditions by Azam Ali Khan and Bina Kadarkhan representing the Kalavant Center for Music & Dance (New York).
Tributes & Special Recognition:
Inspiring speeches reflecting on Natu Patel’s legacy were delivered by prominent physicians Dr. Harish Bhatt, Dr. Mukesh Solanki, and Dr. Manoj Desai; pharmacist Manu Parikh; community leaders Nalin Shah, Nilesh Dasandi, Edison Councilman Patil, AIA Past President Uma Swaminathan, Mahesh Wani (Gandhian Society), Mukund Parikh (Indo-American Council of Senior Citizens of Edison), Rajen Shah (Swajan), Yoga Guru Vijay Trivedi and senior leaders G.K. Patel, Bhagwat Patel, and Ratilal Patel. Potato Patel, Maya Patel
Additional tributes were shared by Bipin Parekh (Gujarat Samaj NJ), Kaushik Vyas (Royal Rice), Manish Parikh (Taxi & Limo Association), Prakash Patel (ICS of Union, NJ), Harish Vyas (Saptak Group), and Mukesh Kashiwala (Dwarkadhish Temple volunteer).
An Appreciation Award was presented to FISANA in memory of Late Natu Patel, accepted on behalf of his family by wife Mina patel, Son Dhawal, and Deval Patel, alongside FISANA Secretary Yogesh Trivedi and past FISANA presidents /Committee Members.
Community Gathering:
Attendees enjoyed a specially curated, delicious plant-based dinner designed for vegan food lovers, providing a warm atmosphere for friends, family, and community members to reconnect and share cherished memories.
Through this deeply moving tribute, IACA reaffirmed its mission to honor the visionary leaders who established a lasting foundation for the Indian-American community in New Jersey.
About Indo-American Cultural Association of Edison, NJ (IACA)
The Indo-American Cultural Association (IACA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Indian heritage, supporting community welfare, and fostering cultural harmony across the tri-state area.
Media Contact:
Nitin Vyas
Indo-American Cultural Association of Edison, NJ
Phone: (732) 470-5598
Email: [email protected]
