The Association of Indo Americans (AIA) hosted a special community gathering in Milpitas on September 16, 2026, bringing together around 300 Indian-American community leaders, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, faith leaders, youth, and community members. The event served to welcome Hon’ble Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India, San Francisco, as he begins his tenure, while also honoring and bidding a heartfelt farewell to Hon’ble Deputy Consul General Rakesh Adlakha as he concludes his diplomatic service. The evening featured two back-to-back engagements: an exclusive interactive youth session followed by a large community interaction.
Consul General Sivan Connects with Bay Area Youth
Open and Candid Conversation: Middle school, high school, and college students engaged directly with Consul General Sivan in an exclusive youth interaction.
Cultural Identity and Heritage: Discussions touched upon Indian and American cultures, identity, traditions, diversity, and the experiences of growing up between two cultures, with the Consul General encouraging youth to embrace the best of both worlds.
Role of the Consulate: The Consul General shared insights into how the Consulate General of India in San Francisco can support young people, strengthen community connections, and bridge gaps with India.
Value for the Future: Students appreciated the opportunity to share perspectives and receive guidance that will assist them in their homes, schools, higher education, careers, and future leadership roles.
A Grand Welcome to Consul General Satish Kumar Sivan
Vibrant Reception: Consul General Sivan was welcomed with a traditional Chenda Melam percussion performance upon arriving at the large community gathering.
Elected Officials in Attendance: Distinguished civic leaders and elected officials joined the event to welcome the Consul General and express appreciation to Deputy Consul General Adlakha, including:
- Carmen Montano, Mayor of Milpitas
- Lily Mei, Former Mayor of Fremont
- Raymond Liu, Vice Mayor of Fremont
- Murali Srinivasan, Councilmember, City of Sunnyvale
- Raj Chahal, Councilmember, City of Santa Clara
- Sonia Salwan, Alameda County Commission on the Status of Women
- Sridhar Verose, Councilmember, City of San Ramon
Diverse Representation: The gathering brought together leaders from numerous Indian-American organizations across the Bay Area.
Interfaith Blessings and Community Unity
Spiritual Dimension: Priests representing various local temples and a local church priest attended to offer their blessings to both Consul General Sivan and Deputy Consul General Adlakha.
Symbol of Inclusiveness: The participation of religious leaders from different faith traditions highlighted the unity, inclusiveness, and shared values of goodwill, service, respect, and togetherness within the Bay Area community.
Personal Engagement and Community Appreciation
Approachable Nature: Consul General Sivan took time to meet individual participants, listen to their perspectives, and engage personally throughout the gathering.
Humility and Responsibility: When praised for his personal engagement, the Consul General humbly remarked, “It is my job,” reflecting his deep sense of responsibility and commitment to serving the community.
Lasting Impression: His approachable demeanor and genuine interactions earned widespread appreciation, respect, and affection from attendees.
Heartfelt Farewell and Tribute to Deputy Consul General Rakesh Adlakha
Retirement Recognition: The gathering included a special farewell tribute to Hon’ble Deputy Consul General Rakesh Adlakha as he prepares to retire from diplomatic service.
Acknowledgment of Service: Community leaders, elected officials, and members expressed deep appreciation for his dedicated service to the Indian diaspora and his contributions across the San Francisco jurisdiction.
Warm Wishes: The community collectively expressed gratitude for his long-standing support and wished him happiness, fulfillment, and continued success in his next chapter.
AIA’s Continued Commitment to Community Engagement
Leadership Reflections: The AIA team expressed sincere gratitude to both diplomatic leaders, elected officials, faith leaders, and participants for making the evening a memorable success.
Future Outlook: AIA looks forward to continuing its close collaboration with the Consulate General of India, San Francisco, to foster ongoing engagement among the Consulate, community organizations, civic leaders, faith communities, and the next generation.
