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Let us not forget the award he received for his
entrepreneurial efforts. New York governor Pataki bestowed
the Award for Corporate Excellence upon him for his
accomplishments and contributions to his community and the
community.
Dandona feels that his weakness is his generosity. He
believes himself to be too generous. Yet, it appears that
his generosity expands into other realms. It expands into
bringing the Indian culture into the American eye. It
expands into aiding people, bringing culture, and heritage
to a multitude of people. It expands into businesses and
employment for others. His ‘weakness’ of generosity
transcends into his strength in my opinion!
One must also not forget his title of chairman of the
Indian National Congress of America. Its mission is to
promote "the causes and concerns of India and to
improve Indo-US ties". Dandona was not only chairman,
he founded the organisation. It helped new immigrants feel
welcome and comfortable in their new surroundings. Good
relationships between nations make for more secure
individuals, feels Dandona.
When asked if he believed his efforts were helping
bring India and American closer, he replied: "The
events are the only South Asian entertainment events which
bring celebrities from all countries in the South Asian
subcontinent. The events strengthen the ties between the
diaspora and their government in America. The presence of
politicians such as Senator Moynihan at these events
reinforces the commitment of the American government to
their citizens of South Asian heritage."
Dandona believes that diaspora Indians in the US are
treated fairly. "The evidence of this is that Indians
hold the highest positions in multinationals, hospitals
etc. America is merit-based and colour-blind," he
says. |
