The Shri Krishna Nidhi (SKN) Foundation, a New Jersey-based wellness non-profit, is set to host its annual HOPE Gala 2024 on Sep.21, 2024, at Princeton Farms and Preserves in Skillman.
The event aims to highlight the importance of bringing food "from farm to table" and will serve as a fundraiser for the SKN Foundation Center for Diabetes and Heart Health.
The Gala will also feature a special appearance by Rakesh Raghunathan, a celebrated South Indian culinary expert and food raconteur. Known for his work on national television shows such as Highway Dreams and 100 percent South Indian (Zee Zest).
Raghunathan brings a unique perspective on South Indian cuisine, blending traditional socio-cultural practices with modern healthy eating concepts. His participation in the event aims to bring the Farm-to-Table theme to life, offering guests a taste of his deep culinary expertise.
Kamran Mehdi Hassan, a multi-talented musician and the son of ghazal legend Mehdi Hassan, will deliver a musical performance. Renowned for his versatility as a composer, arranger, and singer, Kamran will transport the audience back in time with his rendition of popular ghazals and classical songs.
His albums, including Aaghaz and Meri Aawaaz, have earned critical acclaim, and his performance is expected to be one of the evening's highlights.
South Asians are one of the largest and fastest-growing minority groups in the United States. However, they face significant health disparities, particularly concerning diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Studies indicate that one in five South Asians will develop diabetes, with half at risk of being underdiagnosed. Cardiovascular disease, a frequent complication of diabetes, tends to occur earlier and with more severe consequences for South Asians compared to the general population.
The SKN Foundation's South Asian Center for Diabetes and Heart Health is working to address these health concerns. The center provides screenings, education, expert advice, and ongoing follow-up to high-risk community members. It aims to raise awareness and promote better health management within the South Asian community.
"The SKN Center for Diabetes and Heart Health is designed to enhance culturally appropriate care for South Asians in New Jersey," said SKN Foundation founding director Dr. Naveen Mehrotra.
Dr. Meena Murthy, director of the Center and a key advisor to the SKN Foundation, highlighted the severe impact of diabetes within the community, "South Asians residing in the U.S. have the highest burden of diabetes, with the prevalence reaching up to 25 percent in this population, the highest of any ethnic group in the USA."
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