The Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center, Inc. (The Kerala Center) celebrated its 33rd Annual Awards Dinner at the Center’s auditorium in Elmont, NY, on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The event honored seven distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions in their respective professions and to society through selfless dedication.
**2025 Award Honorees:**
– **Inspector Shibu Madhu** – Government and Public Service
– **Diya Mathews** – Legal Service
– **Priscilla Samuel** – Nursing
– **Jayan Varghese** – Pravasi Malayalam Literature
– **Koshy O. Thomas** – Community Service
– **Nandini Menon** – Education
– **Joharath Kutty** – Engineering
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Suresh U. Kumar, who spoke about the concept of Indian Civilizational Intelligence and its potential to propel India to become a leading global economy.
The evening began with introductory remarks and the welcoming of emcee Daisy Stephen Pallipparambil by G. Mathai, Trustee and Program Chairman. The American National Anthem was performed by Bailey Stephen, and the Indian National Anthem was sung by Amisha Jaimon.
Kerala Center President Alex K. Esthappan welcomed attendees and provided an overview of the Center’s activities and goals. Distinguished public officials, including New York Senator John Liu, Assemblymembers Michaelle Solages and Edward Braunstein, former Senator Kevin Thomas, and North Hempstead Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava, attended to felicitate the honorees and present awards.
Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of the Trustee Board and Award Committee Member, introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Suresh Kumar. Following the keynote, Dr. Madhu Bhaskaran, Board and Award Committee Chairman, explained the awardee selection process prior to the presentations.
In addition to the Kerala Center’s own awards, Assembly members presented certificates and proclamations to further honor the awardees.
The Kerala Center Executive and Board members—including Raju Thomas, Abraham Thomas, Mathew Vazhappally, and John Paul—played key roles in coordinating the event. The evening featured Indian classical dance performances by Chandrika Kurup’s Noopura School of Dance, adding a vibrant cultural element to the celebration.
Associate Secretary Mary Philip concluded the ceremony with a heartfelt vote of thanks to the honored guests, awardees, sponsors, photographers, audience, and all who contributed to making the event a success. Dinner was provided by Spice Gardens, rounding off a memorable evening for the community.
—
*For more information about the Kerala Center and upcoming events, please visit our website or follow us on social media.*
https://newsindiatimes.com/kerala-center-ny-presents-2025-annual-awards-to-high-achievers/