Destination Oak Tree Road, a celebrated documentary highlighting the transformation of a once-declining New Jersey neighborhood into a thriving cultural and commercial hub, has been nominated for two prestigious 2025 New York Emmy Awards.
Directed and narrated by acclaimed broadcast journalist Rohit Vyas, the film is recognized in two categories: Documentary Historical and Performer/Narrator. The nominations were announced at PIX 11 studios by the New York chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NY NATAS).
Reacting to the recognition, Vyas shared, “I am deeply honored that our team’s dedication has been acknowledged by industry peers. After decades of covering the Indian and South Asian diaspora, this first documentary project is very special. It’s gratifying to see the story resonate.”
The film chronicles the history of Oak Tree Road, a one-and-a-half-mile stretch spanning Edison and Iselin in Woodbridge Township. Once desolate, the area has been revitalized into a vibrant district thanks to the perseverance and vision of the Indian American community. Today, Oak Tree Road stands as an internationally recognized hub for culture, commerce, and investment.
The project team includes Emmy-winning producer Janice Selinger, actress and sports host Aditi Vyas, arts advocate Isha Vyas, Joe Lee (former NJPBS VP/GM) as Executive in Charge of Production, and Steve Stone as Director of Photography. The documentary, a co-production of Vyas Productions and NJPBS / The WNET Group, first premiered on NJPBS and is now streaming on PBS.
Speaking about its significance, Vyas noted, “The Asian Indian community in New Jersey is one of the nation’s largest. Through Oak Tree Road’s journey, we tell a quintessentially American story of hard work, resilience, and success.”
The winners of the 68th Annual New York Emmy Awards will be announced in New York City on October 11, 2025.
