On November 17, World Vegan Vision, a nonprofit led by founders Malti and HK Shah, hosted a vegan Thanksgiving celebration at Antun’s by Minar, a banquet hall in Hicksville, New York. Community members and advocates of plant-based diets attended the celebration. The organization’s mission is to increase public awareness about the three aspects of veganism – its impact on human health, environmental health, and its implications for animal rights.

Dr. Pritesh Mutha, an expert in gastroenterology, lifestyle medicine, and stress management delivered a presentation titled Unlocking Gut Health: A Natural Way to Reverse Diseases. He emphasized the importance of fiber in one’s diet and the role of the gut microbiome in regulating bodily functions. He advocated for moving to a plant-based diet stating that animal-based foods – especially heavily processed items – are inflammatory and inhibit gut health. 

“We are thrilled with the turnout and the overwhelmingly positive response to Dr. Mutha’s inspiring talk,” said Rakesh Bhargava, President of World Vegan Vision’s New York Chapter. “This event was more than a Thanksgiving celebration – it was a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, health, and sustainability.”