Attendees of the two-day 2025 Unity Summit will enjoy discussions and entertainment highlighting the diverse cultural heritage of AANHPI communities. The first day, September 16, will feature a range of topics relevant to diaspora communities. The Welcome Dinner will include two keynote speakers, Anil Sharma and Sandy Chau, and entertainment. The second day will be devoted to advocacy and celebration of the accomplishments of professionals and high achievers during the Congressional Reception at the Rayburn House Office Buidling on Capitol Hill.
The cultural aspect of the event will display the rich cultural heritage of India, China, and Polynesia. Folk music from each region will be performed, including two dances from India, one dance from Polynesia, and three musical numbers from China. The organization has retained local Deejay Niraj Palikhey to provide entertainment, with Dr. Nilima Mehra serving as the emcee for the event.
Indian culture encompasses a diverse array of musical genres, including classical, Sufi, popular, and folk music. It also boasts a rich repertoire of dance styles. Many Asian cultures feature distinctive music, costumes, and ornate jewelry.
Purvi Bhatt, the artistic director and instructor/founder of Lasya Kathak Dance Academy, will present a Rajasthani folk dance. This style has gained prominence in Bollywood cinema, particularly through the popular item number “Ghoomar.” The dance is known for its intricate circular movements and the use of flowing, colorful skirts. Performers include Isha Mahadeshwar, Anika Mahadeshwar, and Swara Bhatt.
The second Indian dance item, Gidha, a folk dance originating from Punjab, is accompanied by lively music played on drums. Women execute dance moves in sync with the rhythmic beat. This item, organized by Himani Raheja, is dedicated to Kanwaljit Sachdeva, who was known for her interest in Punjabi culture and passed away from cancer at a youthful age. The performers are Lucky, Vimi, Daljeet, Hardeep, Pammi, Renu, and Sukhbir.
Asian Culture and Education Society USA (ACAESUSA) will showcase the artistic talents of its young members. The performers include Jan Xie, Xue Feng, Coco Li, Yujin Hu, Haizhou Cao, Hongmei Yin, Guiqiao Chen, Anya Liu, Meihua Zhou, Adam Zhang, Veera Panday, Qiong Zhao, Jun Zhou, and Vivek Panday.
The Polynesian Association of Alaska will present “Samoan Taualuga,” a dance performed by a daughter of a High Chief of the island or a Minister’s Daughter. This dance is only performed when there are honorary guests from the United States, another High Chief Family from another village or island, or when a Chief title is being bestowed in a village. The performer is Luciana Hansen.
