WALTHAM, Mass. (June 6, 2006)— INDIA New England, a bi-weekly newspaper dedicated to the community and business interests of the Asian-Indian community in New England, today announced that it has named Bishnu Maya Pariyar its INDIA New England Woman of the Year for 2006. 

Ms. Pariyar is the founder of Empower Dalit Women of Nepal, a Lexington, Mass.-based nonprofit that works to improve the lives of Dalit (low caste) women in rural Nepal by enabling them to fight for their human rights and raise their standard of living. Ms. Pariyar, who lives in Worcester, Mass., is also a student of the international development and social change program at Clark University. She plans to return to her work in Nepal once she completes her studies. 

“I am happy that people recognized my work, I think it is wonderful,” said Ms. Pariyar.

“Most people don’t know about the caste system and how terrible it is so [my goal is] to educate people. I hope one day the caste system will be abolished and that women will be empowered and that there will be no discrimination based on caste and gender.” 

Ms. Pariyar was chosen from 20 finalists for the award, which recognizes and celebrates the business and community achievements of South Asian women throughout New England. The event, which was attended by more than 200 people, was held at the Marriott Hotel in Newton, Mass. on June 1, 2006. This year’s 20 finalists were profiled in the June 1st issue of INDIA New England. 

“Bishnu is a very deserving recipient who overcame such tremendous odds to get where she is,” said Meera Rajagopalan, editor-in-chief of INDIA New England. “Women like Bishnu and countless others who balance career and family often end up feeling exhausted or guilty or both. This event is our way of telling [these women], ‘You go, girl.’” 

Added Peter Glaser, publisher of INDIA New England: “This ceremony has become a wonderful tradition for us and our readers. Indian women have made incredible contributions to this region’s business and social community, and it gives us all great pleasure to recognize and celebrate their talent and drive.”  

This year’s two semi-finalists were Dr. Madhusmita Misra and Dinaz Adenwalla. Ms. Misra was recognized for her groundbreaking work and research in pediatric endocrinology at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Ms. Adenwalla was recognized for her work with deaf youth at the Rhode Island School for the Deaf. 

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