On the occasion of Maithili Culture and Festival Day, proclaimed by the New York City Mayor, the event “Art for SDGs: Maithili Heritage Workshop, Exhibition, and Awards 2025” was held. The Maithili Center USA, in collaboration with its foundation, organized the event at the New York Tibetan Service Center. Over 40 children from various communities participated in a creative art workshop based on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 15, titled “Life and Nature.” The workshop was facilitated by renowned Maithili artist SC Suman, who encouraged children to express environmental messages through art.
All participating children received certificates from New York State Assembly member Steven Raga. Additionally, artist Suman was honored for promoting Maithili heritage through folk art, and photographer Raj Kafle was recognized for capturing the beauty of Maithili heritage in vibrant images.
The three best artworks by children were selected from Rashmi Giri, Tenzin Lhaze Kinga, and Austin Shah, who were awarded trophies, certificates, and gifts. Amit Pratap Shah, founder and executive director of Mithila Center USA, highlighted how such programs promote the preservation of Mithila culture while engaging the younger generation in global development goals. Sucrani Dhanput, South Asian Community Coordinator from the New York City Mayor’s Office, presented the official proclamation of Mithila Culture Day, praising the work of the organizing team. Dolma Lama from Steven Raga’s office also showed support by presenting certificates.
Tenzing Chiring, Program Director at the New York Tibetan Service Center, expressed pride in hosting such an intercultural event. Artist SC Suman thanked the organizers for providing an important opportunity to share his knowledge with diaspora children and raise awareness about their culture. The event also featured a Maithili painting exhibition focused on biodiversity, nature, and environmental consciousness by artists SC Suman, Pratik Raymaji, Shivangi Singh, Subhadri Subha, and Rakhi Karn.
