Indian-American physicians celebrate achievements as 40th annual convention kicks-off

June 24, 2022

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The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, AAPI kicked off its convention in San Antonio, TX, June 23, 2022. Seen on stage is the committee that organized the four-day event. Photo: Twitter @Newsindiatimes5

The 40^th annual convention organized of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) began at the Riverwalk Henry B Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, TX, Thursday, June 23, 2022, celebrating the achievements of Indian-American physicians and focusing on the theme, “Physician Heal Thyself.”

More than 1,000 physicians are attending the convention which ends June 26, according to a June 24, 2022, press release from AAPI. The Special Guest on the first day was legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar.

Special guest at the AAPI 40th Annual Convention, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, via virtual conference on June 23, 2022, the first day of the convention. Photo: Twitter ITV Gold, via AAPI

A section of the audience at the AAPI 40th annual convention in San Antonio, TX june 23. Photo: AAPI

Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, president of AAPI, addressing the audience at the 40th annual conventkon in San Antonio, TX June 23, 2022. Photo: AAPI

Dr. Jayesh Shah, chair of the AAPI 40th annual convention speaking on June 23, 2022 in San Antonio, TX Photo: AAPI

President of AAPI Dr. Anupama Gotimukula complimented the leadership team with working on numerous projects in areas including educational, philanthropic, legislative, networking, etc. “This has been possible because of the incredible work and support from the dedicated team of leaders, members, and our supporting office staff.”

Dr. Jack Resneck, president of the American Medical Association praised the contributions and achievements of Indian-American physicians, who serve and provide best healthcare to every 7^th patient in the United States. “It’s time our nation renews our commitment to you for the incredible services you provide to our nation,” he said.

Dr. Rajeev Suri, president of Texas Indo American Physicians’ Society-South West, (TIPSSW) & co-chair of the Convention and his co-host Mona Talukdar, emceed the event, admiring the hard work of the organizing Committee of the Convention , provided glimpses to the rich history and achievements of TIPSSW chapter, the press release said.

“Our physician members have worked very hard during the covid 19 pandemic. The 2022 convention is a perfect time to heal the healers with a special focus on wellness,” said Dr. Jayesh Shah, chair of AAPI Convention 2022.

The Convention Committee members include Venky Adivi, CEO of the Convention; Dr. Aruna Venkatesh, Convention Treasurer; Dr. Vijay Koli, Past President of AAPI & Convention Advisor; Dr. Rajam Ramamurthy, Convention Advisor; Chief Operating Officers, R. Reddy Yeluru and Ram Joolukuntla; Dr. Suri and other Co-Chairs of the Convention, including Dr. Shankar Sanka, Dr. Hetal Nayak, and Kiran Cheruku. Each of them was honored on stage with a plaque appreciating their dedication and for putting together the convention.

Honoring India and its 75 years of Independence Day celebrations- co-sponsored by the Embassy of India & the Consulate General of India (CGI) – Houston, AAPI delegates experienced the rich cultural heritage of India through a video presentation. There were also Indian/Mexican fusion dances, ranging from Bharatnatyam, folk dances, and the traditional Indian dances in sync with Mexican pop dances.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee champion Harini Logan being honored at the 40th annual AAPI convention in San Antonio, TX., June 23, 2022. Photo: AAPI

The Scripps National Spelling Bee 2022 Champion Harini Logan was recognized during the convention Gala.

A dance performance to celebrate India’s cultural heritage at the 40th annual AAPI convention in San Antonio, TX., June 23, 2022. Photo: AAPI

Other activities at the Convention include the yoga wellness package that AAPI is featuring in collaboration with all the 10 City Council Districts of San Antonio, TX and Mayor Ron Nirenberg and iDoYoga San Antonio, which is led by well-known yoga gurus, including Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, of Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh, among others.

Dr. Ravi Kolli, President-Elect of AAPI said, “This is the first time in the AAPI convention we offer these exclusive wellness packages geared towards the well-being of physicians and their families by bringing the essence of science and spirituality of yoga and lifestyle medicine into our self-care routine.”

Each day of the convention has a specific theme. June 23 was “Unity in Diversity” followed by ‘Heritage India’ on Friday, and ‘Bollywood’ on Saturday, when singer Shaan will perform. The cuisine served each day matches the theme chosen for each day.

Some of the major events at the convention include: Workshops and hands-on sessions on well-being, 10-12 hours of CMEs, Women’s Forum, CEOs Forum, AAPI Got Talent, Mehfil, Bollywood Nite, Fashion Show, Medical Jeopardy, Poster/Research Contest, Alumni and Young Physicians events and Exhibition and Sale of Jewelry, Clothing, Medical Equipment, Pharma, Finance and many more.