The Indian American Medical Association (IAMA) Illinois chapter celebrated its 45th Annual Gala, highlighting community leadership and the legacy of service within the Indian American medical community.
Chicago, IL: On a cool autumn evening, the Indian American Medical Association (IAMA) Illinois chapter transformed the brisk weather into a warm celebration at its 45th Annual Gala and Business Meeting, held at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove. The event encapsulated the essence of the Indian American medical community—unity, service, culture, and shared purpose. With laughter echoing through the venue, music enlivening the atmosphere, and inspiring stories shared over a lavish dinner, the gala became a tribute to the healers whose impact extends far beyond hospital corridors.
The evening commenced with spirited hosting by the lively couple Ashok and Megha Doshi, whose playful chemistry set the perfect tone for the festivities. Ashok encouraged guests to “relax and enjoy a fun-filled evening,” while Megha charmed the audience with her humor regarding the value of conversation, referencing studies that link social interaction to improved brain health. “Talking is an art, don’t you think?” she teased, eliciting laughter and approving nods from the crowd.
Their introduction led to moving musical tributes that honored both nations the community proudly calls home. Sixteen-year-old Ashi Sarai, a talented student from Hinsdale Central High School, delivered a stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” her voice resonating with youthful pride and clarity across the hall. Following her performance, Dr. Rohit Vasa, a multifaceted individual—marathoner, photographer, traveler, philanthropist, and long-time IAMA leader—sang “Jana Gana Mana” with profound emotion. Together, their performances beautifully captured the harmony of Indian and American identities that define IAMA’s spirit.
The role of Master of Ceremonies was taken up by Jason Shah, son of outgoing President Dr. Dilip Shah. A tech entrepreneur and former CTO of Mediafly, Jason balanced humor and sentiment with ease. “I’m one of the few in my family without an MD,” he joked, “so my dad still wonders where he went wrong.” Yet, his admiration for physicians was evident as he shared personal anecdotes, including memories of watching his father rush to assist a heart attack victim. Jason described doctors as “community connectors” who transform anxious questions into reassurance and lifelong trust. “Your willingness to answer even the simplest question gives us peace no other profession provides,” he said, drawing appreciative applause from the audience.
During the business portion of the evening, President-Elect Dr. Medavaram stepped in for Dr. Suresh, who was absent due to a family emergency, to introduce the chief guest, Mr. Larry Herman—Village President of Oakbrook, JD, CBA, and head of an independent insurance brokerage. Herman praised the area’s extraordinary concentration of medical professionals, humorously suggesting that Oakbrook likely has the highest number of physicians per capita in Illinois—perhaps even the country. He highlighted Oakbrook’s exceptional amenities, strong community influence, and the longstanding contributions from families like the Shahs.
The annual business meeting, led by IAMA Secretary Dr. Rajeev Kumar, was both efficient and heartfelt. He expressed gratitude to members for their ongoing support and announced the results of the 2026 elections. The nominating committee, consisting of Drs. Raj Arora, Amarjit Singh, and President Dr. Dilip Shah, proposed a slate of officers that was approved unanimously. The new leadership includes Dr. Rajeev Kumar as President-Elect, Dr. Neetha Dhananjaya as Secretary-Elect, and Dr. Vivek Mohan as Treasurer-Elect. Incoming 2026 President Dr. Meher Medavaram joined fellow officers for a celebratory photo, symbolizing continuity, growth, and a promising new chapter.
Dr. Dilip Shah’s address reflected on a remarkable year for IAMA, highlighting several key achievements, including the donation of blankets to the Salvation Army, over $180,000 raised at the IAMA CF fundraiser, free medical camps serving over 400 community members, and a memorable group trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. He also noted the Golden Stethoscope Award honoring young researchers, a series of webinars and educational forums, and the Fall Walkathon at Fullersburg Woods. Dr. Shah expressed deep gratitude to the executive committee, particularly acknowledging Dr. Niranjana Shah, whom he referred to as “my backbone,” along with Dr. Medavaram and Dr. Rajeev Kumar. With a touch of humor echoing President Reagan, he remarked that age brings wisdom, not weakness.
Dr. Amit Chakrabharti, President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), commended IAMA Chicago as a “beacon of community engagement, professional excellence, and cultural pride.” He highlighted national and global initiatives, including Gita oath programs, a Patagonia experience, an AAPI retreat in Iowa featuring consultations and classical music, summits in Odisha with the President of India invited, and upcoming trips to Sri Lanka and China. He also mentioned the AAPI National Convention in Tampa on July 2–4, coinciding with the USA’s 250th Independence anniversary. Dr. Chakrabharti recognized Oakbrook’s leadership legacy within AAPI and confidently passed the baton to incoming President Dr. Meher Medavaram, predicting impactful progress under her tenure.
The evening also celebrated individuals who exemplify service and leadership within the community. Awards presented included the President’s Appreciation Award to Mr. Laurence Herman, the Distinguished Physician Award to Dr. Piyush Vyas, the Special Appreciation Award to Dr. Niranjana Shah, the Leadership Award to Dr. Samir Shah (accepted by Dr. Brij Malani), the Community Service Award to Dr. Suresh, the Dr. Usharani Nimmagadda Woman Physician Leadership Award to Dr. Meghmala Doshi, and the Presidential Appreciation Award to Dr. Dilip Shah. Each honoree reflected IAMA’s motto of serving with compassion and dedication.
Following the formalities, Annu Malhotra, President of Mindful Meditation Yoga and FIA, took the stage to celebrate a record-breaking International Yoga Day, which featured over 1,200 participants partnered with IAMA. She then welcomed Heat Fire, a celebrated vocalist trained in Indian classical, Sufi, and fusion music. Supported by Team Sur Saga and a talented co-singer, the band delivered a dynamic musical set that took guests from serene melodies to vibrant dance numbers. Dinner followed, rich with aromatic flavors and lively conversation, creating a vivid tapestry of friendships, memories, and a shared commitment to healing and humanity.
Suresh Bodiwala, Founder of Asian Media USA, remarked, “IAMA’s 45th Gala is a beautiful reminder that our physicians are not only healers but also bridge-builders. Their dedication strengthens our diverse communities with compassion, culture, and pride. Congratulations to all honorees—your work continues to illuminate the path for generations to come.”
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