Caption: Hosted by Legislature Vice Chair Dr. Aney Paul, the Rockland County Legislature celebrated Indian Heritage Month by recognizing five outstanding community leaders (left to right) Rajiv Rohilla, the Very Rev. Gheevarughese Thomas Chattathil Corepiscopos, Mathew Varghese, Mathai Chacko, and (2nd from far right) Ratnaswamy “Sam” Shankar.
Legislator Paul Leads Indian Heritage Month Celebration
Distinguished Service Awards Presented To Ratnaswamy “Sam” Shankar, Mathai Chacko, Very Rev. Gheevarughese Thomas Chattathil Corepiscopos, Rajiv Rohilla, and Mathew Varghese
New City, NY (Aug. 5, 2026) – The Rockland County Legislature celebrated Indian Heritage Month by recognizing five outstanding community leaders whose volunteerism, leadership, faith, and dedication to preserving Indian culture have enriched the lives of residents throughout Rockland County.
The celebration was hosted by Legislature Vice Chair Dr. Aney Paul, a native of India who has called Rockland County home for decades, who was joined by County Legislators Toney Earl, Dana Stilley and Beth Davidson.
“Indian Heritage Month is both a celebration of our rich cultural traditions and a reminder of the important role Indian Americans continue to play in strengthening our communities,” Legislator Paul said. “As someone who was born in India and built my life and raised my family here in Rockland County, it was especially meaningful to recognize individuals whose service, leadership, and generosity have made a lasting difference for so many. Our heritage reminds us where we came from, while our service reflects our commitment to the community we are proud to call home.”
Congratulations to this year’s honorees:
Ratnaswamy “Sam” Shankar was recognized for decades of volunteer leadership with Jeevan Jyoti, the India Cultural Society of Rockland, Sri Ranganatha Temple in Pomona, and the Namah Vedanta Center. A retired engineer and longtime Rockland resident, he has promoted financial literacy for seniors, preserved Indian culture, and supported numerous charitable and educational initiatives that have benefited the community.
Mathai Chacko was honored for nearly five decades of leadership in healthcare administration, civic organizations, and humanitarian service. A longtime leader of the Hudson Valley Malayalee Association and an internationally recognized Lions Club leader, he has strengthened cultural organizations, mentored future leaders, and dedicated his career to serving communities throughout New York and beyond.
Very Rev. Gheevarughese Thomas Chattathil Corepiscopos was recognized for more than 50 years of faithful ministry and community service. As Vicar of the New City Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Church and a spiritual leader serving congregations in New City and Nanuet, he has provided pastoral care, mentored young people, strengthened families, and led numerous charitable outreach efforts.
Rajiv Rohilla was honored for his longstanding commitment to the Indian Cultural Society of Rockland, where he has served in several leadership roles, including president. He has helped expand cultural, educational, and health initiatives while encouraging volunteerism, community engagement, and youth leadership.
Mathew Varghese, President of the Indian Cultural Heritage and Arts Awareness Club (ICHAA), was recognized for his dedication to youth mentorship, cultural education, and community service. Through leadership programs, volunteer initiatives, charitable outreach, and cultural events, he has inspired young people to become active leaders while strengthening connections throughout Rockland County.
The annual celebration recognizes the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Indian Americans while honoring local residents whose leadership, compassion, and commitment to serving others continue to strengthen the fabric of Rockland County.
Laura Incalcaterra
Communications Director
Rockland County Legislature
11 New Hempstead Road
New City, NY 10956
(845) 638-5184