NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Atlanta, GA, December 18, 2025: The Sewa International Atlanta Chapter hosted its Annual Gala 2025 at the Twelve Midtown, Autograph Collection, bringing together more than 200 supporters, partners, volunteers, and community leaders for a memorable evening honoring service, culture, and collective impact. Emcees Krishnan Balasubramanian and Radha Katta guided guests through a warm and engaging program filled with performances, recognitions, and reflections on Sewa’s mission and impact. In a strong show of commitment to the community, the evening raised over $600,000 for various local and global initiatives supported by Sewa’s Atlanta chapter.
The event opened with Ganesh Vandana, followed by the ceremonial Jyothi Prajwalan lighting led by the Consul General of India in Atlanta, Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan; Sewa USA President Srikanth Gundavarupu; and Shiv Aggarwal.
“This gathering reflects the strength of our community and the timeless value of service,” said Consul General Lakshmanan.
Sewa Atlanta recognized several outstanding leaders for their contributions. Shiv Aggarwal received the Sewa Karmayogi Award for more than three decades of community service. LaTonia Taliaferro-Smith of Emory University was honored for her leadership in education and research, and for her impactful partnership with Sewa in combating food insecurity. The Sewa Entrepreneur Award was presented to Venkat Chundi, a serial entrepreneur, while the Sewa Journalism Award honored Mahadev Desai.
Guest speaker Sekhar Vemparala, founder of Wealth Planning Advisory Group and author of Born to Give, shared reflections on generosity and legacy. “A life of giving is a life of purpose,” he said.
The audience also viewed a special video message from U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff, who praised Sewa’s impact, stating, “Your service strengthens families, communities, and the future of Georgia.”
“Sewa is powered by ordinary people doing extraordinary things,” said Sewa USA President Srikanth Gundavarupu, as he delivered an overview of national progress and shared a compelling vision for the road ahead.
Sewa Atlanta Chapter President Madhav Durbha and Vice President Raj Radhakrishnan reflected on the chapter’s accomplishments throughout 2025. Impact videos highlighted Atlanta’s work in youth leadership development, family services, and community outreach, illustrating the meaningful ways volunteers and supporters contributed to the organization’s growth.
“What you see tonight is the result of thousands of volunteer hours fueled by compassion and commitment,” said Durbha.
Durbha also announced a leadership transition as his term concluded. Raj Radhakrishnan was named the incoming President of Sewa Atlanta, and Krishnan Balasubramanian was announced as the incoming Vice President.
Sewa Appreciation Awards were presented to Zaneta Ivery of Georgia Serves; The Place of Forsyth County; attorney Kirtan Patel of KPPB Law; and Kiran Mudigonda, an avid photographer and technology executive, for their continued partnership and support. The Mookerji Foundation was recognized for its significant support of Sewa’s initiatives. Sid Mookerji shared his experience of making an impact through Sewa and congratulated the team for its sustained commitment to service.
Youth leadership played a central role during the evening. Sewa High School students from Forsyth County presented a check for $2,100 raised through their own initiative, demonstrating the power of young changemakers. Sewa AmeriCorps beneficiaries also shared personal testimonies highlighting the meaningful difference the program has made in their lives and in the broader community.
A series of cultural performances showcased Atlanta’s artistic talent, including a dance performance by Sagnika Mukherji, a fusion presentation by students of Nritya Natya Kala Bharti, and soulful musical performances by Anita Sunny, Anupama Krishnan, and Shyam Gupta from Voice of Atlanta.
The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Chapter Coordinator Rupesh Sharma, followed by Shanti Mantra and Bhojan Mantra led by Sewa LEAD students. Guests enjoyed dinner and final performances while reflecting on a year of service and shared achievement. Sewa also extended its appreciation to the Hotel Twelve staff and Subhash (Sam) Patel for graciously providing the venue and offering exceptional logistical support that contributed to the evening’s success.
