“Un”Gala Marks 30th Year Milestone of The Indian Doctors Association of Houston
From Left: Drs. Subodh Chauhan, Dr. Sonal Dholukia, Dr.Imran Mohiuddin, Dr. Uttam Tripathy, Dr. Salil Deshpande, Dr. Rakesh Mangal, Dr. Kulvinder Bajwa, Dr. Prasun Jalal, Dr. Raghu Athre, Dr. Veena Chandrakar, Dr. Sujit Prabhu, Dr. Manish Gandhi.
HOUSTON: The Indian Doctors Association of Houston stayed true to its mission as the networking forum for physicians of Indian origin at this year’s annual gala held on April 13, 2013 at Houston’s Health Museum. The ‘Un-Gala’ marked the IDA’s 30th year in Houston. The physician organization continues to promote healthcare and education to the Greater Houston community and provide mentorship to young physicians.
Dr. Kulvinder Bajwa, the 2012-2013 IDA President changed the format of this year’s gala “Wings of the Butterfly” to encourage networking and fellowship. The unique evening was highlighted by the fact that it included no speeches, an open seating arrangement, did we mention, no speeches? Instead, the high tech, eco-friendly event was one of easy camaraderie for guests amidst the fun visuals of the Health Museum. The superb food provided by Daawat Catering with a Macallan Scotch tasting provided by The Edrington Group USA, and lots of raffle prizes. No one seemed to miss the standard format of having to sit through a formal program. Instead, the beautifully decorated hall was filled with laughter, good music and lighting by AD Sounds.
Attendees were able to walk through the museum, meet old friends, make new friends, visit the green screen photo booth and try the delicious appetizers. In a brief welcoming speech, Dr. Bajwa introduced the incoming IDA President Dr. Uttam Tripathy , the current Texas Medical Association President, Dr. Michael Speer, and Harris County Medical Society President, Dr. Russell Kridel.
The Indian Doctors Charity Clinic liaison, Dr. K.T. Shah was presented with a $10,000 check from IDA and a pledge for $10,000 in additional funding for the upcoming year. An additional check was presented by the IACF by Anu Bala. The IDA introduced three endowed $5000 scholarships to 3rd and 4th year medical students.
After dinner, guests were treated to a dessert bar sponsored by Medical Protective. The evening ended on a high note with dancing to the sounds of DJ Zee.