World Gujarati Conference to showcase Gujarat in New Jersey

New Delhi, June 20 (UNI) 'Chaalo Gujarat', a three-day event, is being organised in New Jersey by the Gujarati immigrants in the US, as an effort to reconnect the younger generation to their native place while giving an opportunity to elders to recall the ''golden era.'' With the mission to inspire Gujaratis to reconnect with their roots through a dynamic forum of industrial, cultural, political, academic and social leaders, the Association of Indian Americans of North America (AIANA) are hosting the ''Chaalo Gujarat'' World Gujarati Conference 2006, from September 1-3 at Rartian Expo Hall Centre, Edison, New Jersey.

''We are looking at 'Chaalo Gujarat' as an effort to motivate Indian's, particularly younger generations, towards the rich cultural and traditional values of Gujarat,'' AIANA President Sunil Nayak during an informal talk with reporters here.

''We are going to showcase Gujarat in the US, through this event.

There will be seminars and exhibitions, which will enrich your senses to experience the ageless culture of Gujarat,'' Mr Nayak said, asserting that you could witness the overall progress by the Indian community from Gujarat, from textiles to telecommunication, spirituality to modern science and 'Thalis' to the Titans of industries.

Several prominent Gujaratis, who have excelled in various fields, have been invited to attend the conference and share their experience. Besides, industrialists, businessmen, professionals and politicians, personalities from Indian TV and film industry and religious leaders including, Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev have consented to attend the conference, wherein Gujaratis from all walks of life will assemble.

People of Gujarati-origin or born and brought up in Gujarat, their caste and religion notwithstanding have been invited to attend the conference, AIANA President said.

''We are expecting over 30,000 delegates'' Mr Nayak said, informing that about 600-1000 are expected from India, including artistes from rural Gujarat, who will perform Bhiwai and other traditional arts during the event.

Besides Indian community, Governor of New Jersey John Corzine and Mayor of Edison Jun H Choi's have also agreed to amend the event, preperations for which were started in August 2004, Mr Nayak said.

Expressing his concern over Gujarat not being projected as a diverse state with several places of interest, Mr Nayak wished 'Chaalo Gujarat' will promote Gujarat tourism.

The event, which is expected to cost Rs 8-10 crore, has been funded by volunteer donors and corporate sponsors, he added.

UNI VJ YA KN1417