On January 22, the Consulate of India in Los Angeles hosted its first official event at its newly acquired premises- marking not just the opening of a physical space, but the beginning of a new chapter in India–U.S. relations. The theme of the evening, “LA & India Rising Skyward Together,” captured a partnership that has moved decisively beyond incremental progress toward multiplicative growth.
The establishment of the Indian Consulate in Los Angeles itself stood as a testament to community-driven diplomacy. Moderating the event, Gunjan Bagla, CEO of Amritt Inc. invited attendees to stand if they had signed the petition calling for the Consulate, an emotional moment that underscored how grassroots advocacy helped make the evening possible.
Gunjan played a pivotal role in the effort, while his wife, Smita Bagla, worked tirelessly online to mobilize support. Together, they gathered 4,366 signatures from the Indian American community.
Gunjan personally ensured the petition reached the highest levels of leadership by mailing copies to the Indian Ambassador, the Indian Foreign Minister, and the Prime Minister of India, and making multiple trips to Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, to engage directly with Indian diplomats. He later traveled to New Delhi to pitch the case in person.
Last updated: May 15th, 2026
