Atlanta, GA, November 9, 2026: Atlanta-based community leader Dr. Subash Razdan was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) at its 11th Annual International Media Conference, held October 16–18 in Cincinnati, Ohio, in recognition of his decades of community service and efforts to strengthen ties between India and the United States.
Accepting the award, Razdan reflected on his journey as an Indian American, his involvement in civic and cultural initiatives, and the responsibility of the diaspora to serve as a bridge between the two democracies.
“America is my home, while my bond with India remains deep and enduring,” Razdan said. “I have always seen the Indo-American community as a bridge between two great democracies—one that brings pride to both nations and carries a responsibility to preserve our heritage, give back, and guide future generations.”
Razdan, who has served as chair of the Gandhi Foundation and as India’s attaché during the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, said his varied assignments over the years had strengthened his belief in connection, mutual respect, tolerance, and understanding.
“Looking back on my service wearing myriad of hats, especially as Chair of Gandhi Foundation, as India’s Attaché during the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, and other assignments, those experiences deepened my belief in the power of connection, mutual respect, tolerance and understanding,” he said.
His acceptance speech also carried a strong message for journalists and media organizations, particularly those serving immigrant communities.
“The media shapes perceptions, builds understanding, and sustains public trust,” Razdan said, urging the Indo-American Press Club to present India fairly, recognize the values and opportunities of the United States, strengthen bilateral friendship, and give the diaspora a credible voice.
He emphasized that journalism has a responsibility to bridge differences rather than deepen divisions.
“Journalism must rise above sensationalism and division. It must inform without inflaming, question without prejudice, and report with integrity,” he said. “In doing so, IAPC becomes a trusted bridge connecting India, America, and all who proudly belong to both.”
Razdan thanked IAPC Chairman Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President Meena Chittilappilly, founding president Ajay Ghosh, and the organizing team for the recognition.
In a personal moment during his speech, he acknowledged the support of his wife, Raj, throughout his years of service.
“I offer my deepest gratitude to my wife, Raj, whose love, encouragement, and sacrifices have been essential to my journey,” he said. “Raj, this honor belongs to you as much as it belongs to me.”
He also thanked his family, friends, and colleagues, making special mention of his nephew, Cincinnati-based physician Dr. Ajay Kaul, who was present at the ceremony.
Razdan was among six recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the conference. The other honorees were Dr. Meher Medavaram, Dr. V.K. Raju, Roy Ratnavel, Muthu Mudaliar, and Dr. T.S. Vineeth Bhatt. The awards recognized distinguished service and leadership across professional and community fields.
The three-day conference, held at Delta Hotels by Marriott Cincinnati Sharonville, brought together journalists, public officials, academics, business leaders, authors, and community advocates from North America, India, Europe, and the Middle East.
The gathering focused on the future of journalism, the growing influence of artificial intelligence, media ethics, diaspora engagement, and the importance of independent reporting in democratic societies.
U.S. Congressman Greg Landsman, Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, and former Ohio Assemblyman Neeraj Antani were among the prominent speakers.
Landsman highlighted the contributions of Indian Americans and the importance of a free press in strengthening democracy.
“Just as important, a free and independent press helps uncover truth, inform policy, and strengthen democracy. When we invest in immigrants and journalism, we invest in a stronger future for everyone,” he said.
Pureval, who delivered a keynote address, acknowledged the contributions of South Asian Americans to the region’s growth and encouraged greater civic engagement and collaboration.
A major conference session, titled The AI Revolution: Empowering Storytellers, Transforming Newsrooms, examined the opportunities and ethical challenges presented by artificial intelligence in journalism. Discussions explored newsroom automation, audience engagement, credibility, and the need to preserve the human dimensions of storytelling.
IAPC President Meena Chittilappilly called on journalists to adapt to emerging technologies without compromising professional values.
“Journalists must master AI with conscience, defend global media freedom, and uplift peers as a collaborative sanctuary while honoring exceptional community leaders,” she said.
The awards gala also recognized achievements in literature, healthcare, philanthropy, community service, and leadership. Dr. Sunita Reddy received the Women’s Empowerment and Literary Excellence Award, while Dr. Sunita Polepalli, Jay Bedi, and Pramod Jhaveri received Community Service Awards. Investigative journalist Mathew Samuel received special recognition for his contributions to journalism.
Founded in 2013, the Indo-American Press Club represents journalists, publishers, broadcasters, media entrepreneurs, and communications professionals of Indian origin in North America. Its annual conference provides a forum for discussions on journalism, media freedom, emerging technologies, and diaspora issues.
