ISELIN, NJ — October 9, 2026 — Demonstrating exceptional unity and civic spirit, a large turnout of Jewish & Indian community leaders, public officials, and well-wishers assembled today at the Iselin Adult Day Care Center with just three days’ notice for a special Community Honor Ceremony recognizing Hero Captain Smit Machhar.
The tribute was conceived when Rabbi Dr. Bernhard H. Rosenberg connected with Event Coordinator Nitin Vyas, who swiftly organized the gathering. Nimish Patel hosted the program at the Iselin Adult Day Care Center, providing accommodations and warm hospitality for all present.
The gathering featured distinguished representation from the Consulate General of India in New York, with Consul Tsewang Gyaltson offering keynote remarks expressing the diplomatic community’s deep respect for Captain Machhar’s extraordinary heroism.
Event Highlights & Program Summary
Opening & Welcome: Emcee Abha Devrajan (Community Garden) opened the ceremony, followed by official welcome remarks from Event Coordinator Nitin Vyas (World Vegan Vision)
Tributes in Film & Music: Attendees viewed an inspiring video screening highlighting Captain Machhar’s life and heroic deeds, followed by peace and unity musical selections performed by Jewish male and female soloists.
Addresses by Dignitaries & Community Leaders: Remarks were offered by a distinguished group of speakers, including:
Consul Tsewang Gyaltson (Consulate General of India, NY)
Rabbi Dr. Bernhard H. Rosenberg
Nimish Patel (Des Pardes / Venue Host)
Nalin Shah (Swajan)
Sujit Singh (Candidate, U.S. Congress, NJ-12)
Jatinder Singh Bakshi (S&S Dist. / Indo-American Sr. Hudson County)
Dr. Uma Swaminathan (AIA NJ)
Mukund Thakkar (AristaCare)
Niren Chaudhary (Balaji Temple)
Ashok Arora (NRI International / Legal Advisor)
Dr. Om Sharma (Chairman, Montgomery Democratic Organization / President, Isha Vedic Foundation)
Special Video Message: Steve Fox of the Jewish Community Council of Greater Teaneck delivered video remarks commemorating Captain Machhar’s impact.
Edison Mayor’s Citation: The Edison Mayor’s Heroic Certificate was officially presented to event organizers Nitin Vyas and Nimish Patel on behalf of Captain Machhar, acknowledging his outstanding service and valor.
Cultural Performance & Fellowship: A dynamic live Tabla performance by Azam Kadarkhan led into closing remarks, a commemorative group photograph, and a healthy/ vegan lunch provided for all guests.
Key Guests & Volunteer Recognition
The strong community turnout was further bolstered by the attendance of several notable figures, including Mukesh Kashiwala (Sayreville Temple), H.P. Singh, and Rupinder Nayyar. Special recognition was extended to volunteers Utkarsh Pandya and Bala Devrajan for their dedicated efforts in executing the event seamlessly on short notice.
Media Contact: Nitin Vyas, Event Coordinator
World Vegan Vision
Phone: 732-470-5598
Email: [email protected]
