- Queens celebrated the third annual Nepali Community Day on June 11, honoring the cultural heritage and growing presence of Nepali Americans in New York.
- Nine community leaders were recognized for their dedicated service across various fields, including education, business, and public leadership.
- State officials and Nepal’s Consul General attended, praising the diaspora’s contributions and their role as a bridge between the two nations.
- The event highlighted community resilience and civic engagement, celebrating how Nepali Americans have integrated while preserving their unique cultural identity.
QUEENS, N.Y., USA: The aroma of freshly steamed momos, conversations in both Nepali and English, and a shared sense of pride filled the room as community members gathered in Queens on June 11 to celebrate the third annual Nepali Community Day.
The event was more than a cultural celebration. It was an opportunity for Nepali Americans from different generations and walks of life to come together, reflect on their journey, and recognize the people who have helped strengthen the community along the way.
Hosted with the support of State Assemblymember Steven Raga, Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha, and Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, the gathering highlighted the growing presence of Nepali Americans across New York and the contributions they continue to make in public service, business, education, and community leadership.
One of the most meaningful moments of the afternoon came when nine community members were honored for their dedication and service. As their names were announced, applause echoed throughout the room from friends, family members, and fellow community members who had witnessed their work firsthand.
This year’s honorees included Basanti Rai, Pradip Shrestha, Prabin KC, Laxmi Devi Thapa, Shrijana Tuladhar, Vishnu Rana Magar, Bimala Hamal Shrestha, Prava Adhikari, and Urgen Sherpa. While their contributions span different fields and experiences, they share a common commitment to giving back to the community.
For many attendees, the celebration reflected how far the Nepali community has come in New York. Once a relatively small immigrant population, Nepali Americans have steadily established themselves as business owners, educators, healthcare workers, public servants, and community advocates while continuing to preserve their language, traditions, and cultural identity.
Assemblymember Steven Raga acknowledged that journey in his remarks, describing the Nepali community as an important part of Queens' story. He praised community members for helping create neighborhoods that are stronger, more welcoming, and more connected through their leadership and service.
Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris also recognized the community's growing role in Queens, noting that Nepali Americans have become an integral part of the borough’s cultural and social fabric.
Representing Nepal, Consul General Dadhiram Bhandari expressed appreciation for the recognition being given to the Nepali diaspora. He spoke about the important role Nepali Americans play not only in their local communities but also in maintaining strong ties with Nepal. According to Bhandari, the diaspora continues to serve as a bridge between the two countries, preserving traditions while contributing to the diverse communities they now call home.
Among those helping organize the event was Shreeya Tuladhar, a member of the New York State Assembly District 30 Advisory Council. She described the gathering as a reflection of the community’s growth, resilience, and increasing civic engagement. Seeing elected officials, community leaders, honorees, and residents gathered under one roof, she said, was a reminder of the power of community and collective action.
Beyond the speeches and recognitions, the event offered something equally important: connection. Attendees shared stories, renewed friendships, and celebrated a culture that continues to thrive thousands of miles from its homeland.
The gathering concluded with thanks to volunteers, community partners, and supporters who helped make the day possible. Guests also enjoyed traditional Nepali momos donated by MomoCrave, ending the celebration on a familiar and comforting note.
As Nepali Community Day continues to grow each year, organizers hope it will remain a space where achievements are celebrated, voices are heard, and future generations are inspired to carry the community’s story forward.
