From Devon Avenue to D.C.: Bushra Amiwala’s Campaign Lights up Illinois’s 9th District
Empowering the Future: Bushra Amiwala’s Congressional Quest Shines at Chicago Rally
Chicago, IL:A wave of excitement and unity swept through Khan B.B.Q Restaurant in Chicago’s Devon Avenue on June 26, 2025, as community leaders, supporters, and activists gathered to rally behind Bushra Amiwala, a trailblazing candidate for Illinois’s 9th Congressional District. The event, a fundraiser hosted from 5-7 PM, marked a pivotal moment in Amiwala’s campaign, showcasing her vision for transformative leadership and galvanizing a diverse coalition to propel her to Congress in the March 2026 primary election.
Amiwala, a first-generation American whose father arrived from Pakistan with just $20, embodies resilience and ambition. As the first Gen Z elected official in the United States and a current member of Skokie’s District 73.5 Board of Education, she has already left an indelible mark on her community. Her seven years of service have been defined by groundbreaking initiatives: championing transparency through livestreamed public meetings, ensuring accessibility with free extracurricular programs for students on free or reduced lunch, and leading the nation by introducing Halal, Kosher, and vegetarian meal options in schools. Now, she’s set her sights on Washington, D.C., to advocate for healthcare, education, housing, and economic security.
The evening buzzed with energy as attendees, reflecting the district’s rich diversity—58% White (including an estimated 11% Arab Americans), 15% Asian, 14% Hispanic, 9% Black, and 4% other—came together to support Amiwala’s vision. The district, a white-minority region where 35.1% of households speak a non-English language like Spanish, Polish, or Urdu, found a unifying voice in Amiwala’s call for inclusive leadership.
Sponsorship tiers, ranging from Bronze ($200) to Platinum ($2,000+), underscored the community’s commitment to fueling her campaign. Supporters filled Khan B.B.Q, savoring aromatic dishes while pledging their support through donations and checks mailed to P.O. Box 911, Skokie, IL 60076, payable to Bushra for Congress. The event was a testament to the grassroots momentum building around Amiwala’s platform, which prioritizes Medicare for All, humanitarian aid over military spending, protecting education from executive overreach, combating climate change, and fostering economic security through clean energy jobs.
Sohan Joshi, Director of the Alliance of Indians in America and North American College, set the tone with an impassioned speech. “Bushra Amiwala is the new generation of leadership we need—active, intelligent, and ready to represent us in Washington,” Joshi declared. “It’s our job to ensure she wins, and our support will send her to Congress to fight for us.”
Zakiuddin Mohammad, Vice Chancellor of North American College and a director at the Alliance of Indians in America, echoed Joshi’s enthusiasm. “We’re here to raise funds and build a movement for Bushra,” Mohammad said. “Her campaign for District 9 is about uplifting every voice in this diverse community. With the support of Khan B.B.Q and our dedicated team, we’re confident she’ll make a difference.”
Sufyan Feroze, who drove from Naperville with his wife Neha Shagufta, spoke to Amiwala’s historic candidacy. “Bushra is the youngest Muslim congressional candidate for District 9, and I believe in her vision,” Feroze said. “I urge everyone to show up, donate generously, and join this movement. She’s here to make a difference, not just history.”
Mahek Feroze, a businesswoman and entrepreneur, delivered a heartfelt endorsement, emphasizing Amiwala’s role as a trailblazer for Muslim women. “As a mother and a woman in this community, I’m inspired by Bushra’s strength,” she said. “Being a young Muslim woman in politics is no small feat, but she’s breaking barriers and showing what’s possible. We’re here to celebrate her and encourage everyone to support her campaign.”
Umaima Feroz, a passionate advocate for community empowerment, added a creative spark to the evening by
presenting Amiwala with a handcrafted poster titled “Bushra’s Brigade: Igniting Change in 2026.” The vibrant artwork, adorned with symbols of unity and progress, captured the spirit of the campaign and inspired attendees to rally behind Amiwala’s vision. “This poster represents our collective hope,” Feroz said. “Bushra’s leadership will light the way for a brighter future.”
Amiwala herself took the stage to a roaring crowd, delivering a powerful message of unity and action. “Assalamualaikum, peace be upon you all,” she began. “I’ve served this community for seven years, from education to nonprofit work, and now I’m running to represent Illinois’s 9th District in Congress. We’re facing a national crisis, and I’m committed to fighting for healthcare over medical bankruptcies, education over student debt, and housing over homelessness. I refuse to be bought in this election—my priority is the everyday voices of this district.”
Her priorities resonate deeply in a district grappling with economic and social challenges. Amiwala’s advocacy for Medicare for All addresses the healthcare insecurities faced by many, while her focus on clean energy jobs aligns with the urgent need to combat climate change while boosting employment. Her commitment to humanitarian aid and protecting education reflects a forward-thinking approach to governance that prioritizes people over politics.
The event also highlighted Amiwala’s remarkable journey. A Google tech professional with an MBA from Kellogg-Northwestern, she has been recognized as Glamour Magazine’s College Woman of the Year, Seventeen Magazine’s Voice of the Year, and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. Her story has been featured in documentaries on Hulu, Amazon, and PBS, cementing her as a role model for future leaders. As an International Peace Ambassador Award recipient from the United Nations, Amiwala’s global perspective informs her local mission.
Neha Shagufta, a Muslim businesswoman and wife of Sufyan Feroze, emphasized Amiwala’s defiance of stereotypes. “Bushra is the opposite of what people think Muslim women are—she’s independent, strong, and a true leader,” Shagufta said. “We’re supporting her to win in 2026 because she represents the future of our community.”
The fundraiser was more than an event; it was a rallying cry for a new era of leadership. Attendees left inspired, with many pledging to spread the word through bushraforcongress.com and tinyurl.com/DonateBushra. As the March 2026 primary approaches, Amiwala’s campaign is gaining momentum, fueled by a community united in its belief that change is not just possible but imminent.
On behalf of Mr. Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman and Founder of Asian Media USA, we extend our heartfelt support to Bushra Amiwala’s campaign. Her vision for Illinois’s 9th Congressional District embodies the values of inclusion, progress, and community empowerment that we champion. Join us in igniting change with Bushra for Congress.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a kaleidoscope of emotions, music, and heartfelt speeches. Anisha Talati, the visionary behind BrowArt, shared her journey with raw authenticity. Her story began in 2004, fueled by a passion for beauty and a dream to empower others through her craft. “This is my journey started in 2004, and this is my dream, like power of business,” Anisha said, her voice trembling with pride. Despite setbacks, including health challenges that forced her to close her previous salons, Anisha’s spirit remained unbroken. In 2025, alongside her partner Dipmala Patel, she reignited her ambition, determined to redefine beauty standards and create a sanctuary where every client feels like royalty.
beloved figure in the beauty industry, Deepmala’s reputation for excellence precedes her. Gishma Patel, a long-time client, couldn’t contain her admiration: “Deepoo is amazing. She makes you look amazingly beautiful.” The duo’s synergy is the heartbeat of BrowArt, offering an array of services that blend tradition with innovation—hydro facials, micro blading, henna tattoos, eyelash tinting, and more. Their salon promises not just aesthetic transformation but a holistic experience that uplifts the soul.
Heat! Heat!”—a playful expression of the crowd’s infectious energy. Children darted through the crowd, their laughter mingling with the clinking of glasses and the hum of conversations, creating a familial atmosphere that felt like a homecoming.
underscores the vital role of small businesses as the backbone of America’s economy, a sentiment echoed by Sunil Shah, Chairman of the Federation of Indian Association. “Small business is the lifeline and foundation for America,” Shah declared, congratulating Anisha and Deepmala on their “very successful venture.”
Serving as a cultural showcase and tribute to the enduring legacy of Indian classical music, the event harmonized tradition with emotional storytelling. Anchoring the evening was the eloquent Amin Haider, whose articulate hosting and thoughtful commentary added significant depth to the program. Haider’s narration was not just informative but evocative, highlighting several memorable moments from Ustad Ghulam Abbas Khan’s life and career. A particularly striking story he shared revolved around a young Ghulam Abbas, only 16 at the time, who had to perform Hindustani classical music at Delhi’s Daulat Ram College—a genre then unfamiliar to him. Despite his lack of experience, the young artist impressed none other than Pandit Debu Chaudhary. So captivated was the maestro that he interrupted the concert to tune the tanpura himself, allowing Ghulam Abbas to shine at his best. As Haider described, this story was emblematic of “the resilience and passion of a maestro whose name is synonymous with excellence.”
performance that was as spiritually uplifting as it was technically flawless. He seamlessly navigated an array of musical forms, from khayal and thumri to dadra, Sufi kalams, bhajans, and ghazals. Audiences were deeply moved by his performance of Raga Puriya Kalyan and original and traditional bandishes like “More Ghar Aaja” and “Ab To Tumhi Sang Lagan Lagai.” His ability to infuse these centuries-old compositions with fresh emotion and contemporary nuance was nothing short of mesmerizing. The performance bore the unmistakable imprint of his artistic lineage—being the son of Padmashri Ustad Ghulam Sadiq Khan, and the maternal grandson of Padmabhushan Ustad Mushtaq Husain Khan.
Adding a local flavor to the evening, Chicago-based vocalist Payel Ganguly gave a brief yet impactful performance that paid homage to the same musical traditions Ustad Ghulam Abbas embodies. Her rendition was heartfelt and authentic, resonating powerfully with the audience. The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause, affirming her rising status in the realm of classical music.
Kastha delivered a stunning rhythmic performance, displaying a maturity and finesse that belied his age. His intricate patterns and subtle flourishes aligned flawlessly with the vocal cadences, creating a musical dialogue that captivated listeners throughout the night.
emphasizing the evening’s significance as a unifying cultural moment for the South Asian community in Chicago. Though Mr. Iftekhar Sharif, the designated chief guest, was unable to attend due to unforeseen scheduling issues, the event was graced by the esteemed ghazal singer Amir Mohammed Khan, who appeared as the Guest of Honor.
and contributions to Hindustani classical music have earned him several prestigious honors. These include the Central Fellowship Award from India’s Ministry of Culture, the Global Achievement Award in 2017, and the Dr. Radhakrishnan Award in 2018. One of the pinnacles of his career was a performance at the President’s House during the tenure of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam—an event that remains a highlight in his professional journey.
Ali’s Catering ensured that guests were well-fed, while Ena Agnihotri of the Radisson Hotel in Schaumburg provided additional hospitality support. Other significant contributors included the Urdu Institute and Aftab Baig of Monty’s Banquet. Their collective efforts helped transform the evening into more than just a concert—it became a holistic celebration of culture, heritage, and music.
Special guests included AAPI President-Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Mrs. Rajul Bhalala- The President of Chinmaya Mission Chicago, Mr. Sunil Shah-Founding President of FIA, Dr. Piyush Vyas-ISMS President, Padma Shri Dr. Bharat Barai, Dr. Arvind Goyal -Executive Medical director of Illinois State Health and Family Services. The evening was filled with inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and a nostalgic Bollywood musical journey, celebrated IAMACF’s mission to deliver free, high-quality healthcare.
Committee and Board of Directors. He shared a transparent financial overview, Dr. Kumar invited nominations from general membership to elect Dr. Raj Aurora and Dr. Amarjit Singh as members-at-large, for the Nominating Committee.
IAMACF recognized pioneers and pillars of IAMA Charitable Clinic , Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Dr. Rohit Vasa, Dr. Marella Hanumadass, and Dr. Brij Malani for their vision, leadership and providing service as chairperson from 1994-2000. Dr. Suneela Harsoor received the Leadership Award for outstanding services and hard work as chairperson of IAMA-CF in 2023 earning the Gold seal award from NFCC. Dr. Sukanya Reddy received volunteer physician award and Dr. Dr. Praveen Mehta for his hardwork and selfless contribution as the Medical Director of the Clinic. The Numara Foundation, and Neelyx Labs, with Dr. Ram Saladi and Sham Saladi pledging free lab testing for 2025.
From the moment the guests stepped through the doors, they were swept into a celebration of Indian heritage, creativity, and most importantly: hope. The festival, free and open to the public, pulsed with color and life. It was hosted with charm and energy by two MC’s Neha Sobti and Priyanka Parekh, who guided the audience through an unforgettable journey. The show opened with an upbeat hip hop performance blending rhythm and youthfulness. As the day unfolded, the stage bloomed with a variety of dances: elegant ballet, vibrant Garba, classical Indian sequences, and children twirling in joyful abandon. Groups such as Suhani Dance Academy, Ghunguru School, and Four Stars Dance Group left audiences spellbound.
In the Title Walk, finalists were judged not only on style, but voice and purpose. When Rihanna Tandon and Archana Pantraffan stepped forward as winners, their poise and eloquence gave everyone chills. The judges Sanskriti Sharma, Sushma Bhanot, and Archana Agarwal beamed with pride.
someone once invested in our education. For just $30 a month or a dollar a day, we can offer a child that same gift. Let’s make giving a habit, not a moment.” Ashok Potdar, a dedicated and passionate director of organization, reminded the audience that “Knowledge is the only wealth that cannot be stolen.” The room fell silent, then rose to applause. Another passionate advisory member, Ramesh Mehra had another powerful appeal to help folks understand the mission of Vidya Jyoti.
Indian states. It includes: Brass idols of deities like Krishna and Jagannath Swami, Marble and brass Buddha statues with intricate inlay, Wooden temples and home altars, designed with both traditional and contemporary sensibilities, Stone sculptures by Padmashri awardee Pravakar Maharana from Bhubaneswar, Patented wooden art from President’s Award winner Charuhas Pandit ji in Pune, Rare Cheriyal masks, hand-painted by Mr. D Vaikuntam one of the last surviving families practicing this dying art in Andhra Pradesh, Upcycled vintage furniture—crafted from salvaged doors and window frames in Jodhpur, Papier-mâché, clay pots, jharokha mirrors, and seasonal décor sourced directly from rural Indian artisans. The collection bridges past and present, offering pieces that reflect deep mythology, spirituality, and symbolism, while also serving as functional and aesthetic decor for global homes.
The evening was graced by 
Pe Aati Hai Dua reimagined Allama Iqbal’s classic, weaving a heartfelt prayer for peace in conflict-torn regions like Palestine. “When bullets fly anywhere, it is humanity that dies,” he declared, urging the world to embrace love over hatred. His Lal Qila personifying the Red Fort as a witness to India’s history, stirred patriotic fervor, earning thunderous applause. Pratapgarhi’s ability to blend social commentary with poetic finesse left the audience spellbound.
The mushaira concluded with a standing ovation for the poets and organizers, followed by the national anthems of the USA and India, symbolizing the shared values of both nations. Flowers were presented to the guest poets, and Minhaj Akhtar, President of the IOC Committee – Midwest region, joined in honoring the performers. Iftekhar Shareef’s closing remarks reiterated the event’s commitment to fostering peace and cultural harmony, leaving attendees inspired and uplifted.
Chicago, IL: In a ceremony at the Naperville Municipal Center, Ashfaq Syed was officially sworn in as a member of the Naperville City Council. Surrounded by family, friends, supporters, and community leaders, Syed took the oath of office and delivered his inaugural remarks, pledging to serve with integrity, accountability, and a deep commitment to the people of Naperville.
in community needs.
“Budgets should reflect our values,” Syed added. “City government should be as responsive as the people it serves. I will advocate for smarter growth, support small businesses, and invest in services that uplift families and strengthen our neighborhoods.”
The event was expertly hosted by Ashfaq Sharief, who warmly welcomed attendees and shared the journey behind Kohinoor Banquets. He recounted how Abdul Aziz’s vision transformed the second floor of a former corporate office into an elegant, modern space. Shoib Aftab is a General contractor of Kohinoor Banquets. “It was a long journey,” Sharief noted, acknowledging the challenges of navigating Skokie’s regulations and the team’s dedication to creating a venue that could serve Skokie, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove, Niles, and North Chicago. He emphasized the hall’s capacity to host up to 275 guests, making it ideal for intimate weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations, all within a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere.
overseeing every detail to ensure the venue’s excellence. Shareif praised Aziz’s commitment, stating, “He was involved in every small thing, making sure we give the best of the best, even though it’s a small place.” The audience applauded Aziz’s determination to fill a gap in the local market, where options like the aging Holiday Inn banquet hall had left room for innovation.
Qari Abdul Mannan, another prominent guest, brought a spiritual perspective, calling the opening “a blessing from Allah.” He described Kohinoor Banquets as not only beautiful but also a contributor to Skokie’s vibrancy. “This hall makes Skokie beautiful too,” Mannan said, extending a warm welcome to Mayor Tennes and pledging community support. He lauded Aziz as a “great man” and a helpful figure in society, predicting the venue’s success with divine blessings for Aziz’s family and the hall’s future.
communities, including Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and others. Mannan’s mention of his Sufa Masjid and school underscored the area’s cultural momentum, while Shareef’s call for minority representation in local governance struck a chord, reflecting Kohinoor’s role as a unifying space.
The event commenced at 5:30 PM with an engaging Meet & Greet, where attendees, donors, and supporters connected over shared goals and commitments. Hosted by the eloquent Anjali Mohanty, the evening was structured to inspire, inform, and invigorate the spirit of giving.
in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among teachers & young minds. Dr. Shailaja, through her key role at CSIR, works closely with Dr. Jayaraman to drive STEM workshops and promotion efforts across India, ensuring the initiative’s reach and impact continue to grow globally.
The real catalyst for improving the quality of education would be STEM Training for teachers, Dr. Shailaja emphasized the 5 important focus areas of Ignite Stem Passion training programs namely, Science teacher to now step in role of technology teacher, enhance her skills by participating in govt research projects, improve scientific temperament by storytelling and hands on demonstration of experiments along with higher focus on climate change and ethical use of science & technology for betterment of mankind.
Sunil Shah has set a remarkable benchmark in leadership, inspiring countless individuals to follow in his footsteps. His vision, dedication, and ability to unite people have made FIA a powerhouse of growth and empowerment. Under his guidance, FIA has flourished as a platform that fosters leadership, community service, and cultural pride. His unwavering commitment to uplifting both men and women has driven a historic surge in 324 memberships.
community engagement. Every year, FIA elections open doors for passionate individuals to step into influential roles, be it as the President, Vice President, Treasurer, General Secretary, Cultural Secretary, Creative Director, Public Relations, Directors and Advisory Board Directors positions. This dynamic environment nurtures leadership skills, fosters teamwork, and empowers members to take charge of initiatives that shape the future of the Indian American community. Under the inspiring leadership of Sunil Shah, FIA has become a training ground for emerging leaders who wish to make a real impact socially, politically, and culturally. Those who join FIA not only gain a title but also the ability to drive change, making it the most sought-after organization for visionary individuals.
These individuals embody FIA’s ethos of leadership and commitment. Their years of service reflect a deep understanding of our community’s needs—be it education, immigration support, or economic opportunity. Electing them isn’t just a vote for individuals; it’s a vote for a stronger, more represented Asian Indian community. Their success ensures our children’s future, our businesses’ prosperity, and our culture’s endurance.
On August 12th, 2024 Association of Indians in America IL- Chapter celebrated India’s Independence at Daley Plaza. The celebration was graced by Mr. T.Bhutia the Deputy Consul General of India in Chicago and an enthusiastic proponent of respect for every community Ms. Maria Pappas the treasurer of cook county. The flag hoisting was done with great pomp and gaiety and attended by esteemed members of the AIA committee and community at large. It was a great pleasure to see many people of Indian descent from nearby offices and passerby join the fun.
Ms. Papa’s lovely note to the community and its contribution to the USA highlight her address. We would like to thank her for identifying our organization’s contribution to the Chicagoland community.
The event was marked by an address by chairman Salil Mishra, president Lucy Pandey, vote of thanks by Vice President Nilabh Dubey and National Vice President Santosh Pandey and introduction of Maria Pappas by Hina Trivedi. Master of ceremony was Shabana Rehman. Kimico Mehta’s outreach to the community about the importance of voting during our event was appreciated.
Pakistan Mr. Tariq Karim, Mrs. Aasma Karim, Senator Laura Clymore Ellman, Senator Rachel Ventura, Naperville City Councilman Dr. Benny White, Mrs. Kim White, Ashfaq Sye, President, Naperville Public Library Board, Syed Wajahat Abedi, Plainfield Park district Commissioner, Asad Khan, Trustees, Poplar Creek Public Library, Community members, Community leaders and many elected officials.
The highlight of the event was the use of innovative technology in detecting foot problems. Krishna Chitluri brought his entire computerized equipment, which was based on artificial intelligence to analyze and diagnose foot problems, He also provided solutions after identifying the issues in the feet. Anu Malhotra, the Vedic and Yoga Guru, conducted a session on stress relief and exercises for the seniors. We could hear from folks in the room, on how relaxed and energetic they felt, after the session. Dr. Usha Karthan conducted a session on the need for identifying psychological issues in the current population and provided an overview on the resources available to take guidance and help in resolving psychiatric problems.
Notable highlights of the event included the honoring of Jayeshbhai Parekh by Harshadbhai Patel, Smita Parekh, Pinkiben, and Dineshbhai Thakker. Pinkiben shared festive greetings, sang Ganapati Aarti, while Smita Parekh mesmerized the audience with Pratharna and Madhurashtakam. Kantibhai Patel added a musical touch with a Christmas song, and Kiritbhai Thakkar and Pinkiben showcased Srinathji’s Bhagan. Jayashreeben Pandya presented Shiv Stuti, adding a spiritual dimension to the celebration.
United States Congressman Hon. Raja Krishnamoorthi who was the Chief Guest of Honor heaped fine compliments on the leadership team of United Christian Cultural Association for hosting a grand Christmas celebrations. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi highlighted the significance of Christmas and said Christmas is a time of coming together of all religions and added, we should walk humbly, do justly and love mercy in this season. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said while Christmas is dear to Christians, but it remains special to the people of all faiths, as Christmas is largely a set of ideals that symbolize the birth of savior Jesus Christ who is revered as the prince of peace and concluded that we should not preach sermon, but live the essence and ideals of sermon.
General of India and thanked UCCA team for hosting truly a spirited Christmas celebratory event.
The event was graced by Kanishka Soni, an Indian actress and model from Mumbai. Joining in the celebrations was esteemed guests, including Consul General Mr. Somnath Ghose, Chicago Mayor Mr. Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Lincolnwood Mr. Jesal Patel, and Parade Chair Ms. Smita Shah. These illustrious figures joined their voices to wish one and all a jubilant Independence Day. President Dr. Rashmi Patel extended her warmest welcome and heartfelt gratitude to these distinguished individuals, underscoring the profound importance of their presence.
out in the eminent Vedic scriptures such as, Bhagavad Gita and the Bhagavata Purana. ISKCON Chicago has been in the forefront of serving Chicago community for the past 50+ years. The temple is part of the global ISKCON community comprising 650+ temples and Bhakti Centers, farmlands, eco-villages and vegetarian restaurants.
The festivities began around 6 pm and lasted until10:30pm. The celebration started with the traditional Lamp Lighting ceremony. President Haribhai Patel spoke fondly about the Navaratri celebrations, saying that, “It keeps a part of our rich culture alive, we Gujarati have garba in our blood”. He recognized sponsors, the committee members and volunteers that made the event possible.
President Chandan Singh, in his speech welcomed all the guests and dignitaries and said, “USOGC was registered as a charitable organization in Sep 2016. It was designed with a shared vision of bringing the Uttarakhandi community together living in the Greater Chicagoland area by increasing awareness, and promoting our culture, heritage, and language. Our goal is to bring all our Uttarakhandi friends and families together to share their views and provide social, and networking opportunities to all Uttarakhandies.” Singh informed the gentry about USOGC’s various community programs and its various initiatives conducting charitable events in the areas of education, health care, etc for people who need it the most here in Chicagoland as well as back home in Uttarakhand, India. He thanked all sponsors, and volunteers for their continued support. 
By purchasing the special Kedarnath trophy mementos, USOGC has helped support DTribals, a USA based corporation, which is working on an ecommerce platform to give opportunity to Tribal, Disable, Women operating small scale business and other minority people living in the remote villages of India. A Food drive was also conducted by USOGC in partnership with SEWA International. USOGC Food Drive coordinators were Mr Shailendra Rawat & Mr Vikram Negi. A Silent Auction to promote Kumaon’ethnic art “Aipan” was also conducted by Mr Ashutosh Joshi. 
Prominent dignitaries in attendance were Congressman Bill Foster, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, US Senator Laura Murphy, State Representative Michelle Mussman, State Representative Janet Yang Rohr, State Representative Barbara Hernandez, Mayor of Hanover Park Rodney Craig, Village President Oak Brook Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, Mayor of Orland Park Keith Pekau, Mayor of Barrington Paula McCombie, Candidate State Senate at District 22 Raees Yawer, Executive Director of CLESE Marta Pereyra, CEO, and President Age Options Diane Slezak, Businessman Darshan Dhaliwal, Doctor Hematology Oncologist Bharat Barai, Chairman Maneesh Media Mr. Chandmal Kumawat.
Amidst the series of remarks, State Representative Jim Durkin (R,82nd District) said that he would table a resolution on the floor of the Illinois General Assembly to declare June 26th as the World Peace Day and celebrate its observance in the State of Illinois every year – which elicited sustained applause. Mayor Lori Lightfoot also sent a proclamation to the event, which was read by Alderman David Moore in which she declared June 26 each year to be “I Stand for Peace” Day.
Some pieces are as old as 600 years! Some of them are the oldest historic Qurans in the United States. This collection includes almost a 100 Qurans and Quranic manuscripts, all written by hand and some of them on bamboo, palm trees and leather!!!
Dr. Suresh Reddy, Trustee Oakbrook Village introduced Suresh Prabhu as a visionary who presided over as central minister with remarkable honor and lauded him for his distinguished credentials that propelled him to the league of top three Indian leaders in Asia.
The Association of Indians in America is the oldest Indian organization in the United States. It was established in 1967 with the anticipation that as a change of the immigration law, there will be greater immigration of Indian people to the United States. One of the objectives was to help and facilitate the participation and the assimilation of the incoming Indian immigrants to the United States society in the country of their choice. 
Chaitra Navratri is a nine days festivity which starts on the first day of Hindu Luni-Solar calendar and falls in the month of March or April. Chaitra is the first month of Hindu lunar calendar and because of it this Navratri is known as Chaitra Navratri. Chaitra Navratri is also known as Vasanta Navratri.
The reason people love Bharati Desai could be “because she sings from her heart and soul”, said Altaf Bukhari, Vice President Federation of Indian Associations (FIA)-Chicago IL. “The songs that she selects are well known and original folk songs” said Nisha Deshpande who was accompanied by her 3 yrs. an old son dressed up in traditional Gujarati dress, one of the many energetic participants present there. “She gives little variation in notes, but keeps the soul, the ‘atma’ of the song intact,” said Roma Bhagat. This was echoed by another very happy attendee Mrs. Priya Ghayal who described the events as an excellent, enjoyable, exceptional event presented by Bharti Desai.
“How fitting that we can celebrate this one-of-a-kind event on our beautiful lakefront, with Mayor Lightfoot, in the city blessed by Swami Vivekananda.” Also in attendance were Consul General Amit Kumar, Indian Community Leader Niranjan S. Shah, Pratima Shah, and ABC 7 News Reporter, Ravi Baichwal.
The main highlight of the event came when participants picked up colored powder and chased each other, tossing colors into the air and covering friends and strangers alike. They joy and excitement filled the air and created a memorable experience for all.
The Aarush Entertainment company offers event planning & management services that also includes wedding designing, planning, management & consultancy, adopting a comprehensive approach & professional management information system to plan and produce a world class event experience each & every time all over the world. The highly skilled team of professionals at Aarush Entertainment strives hard to accomplish the highest standard of quality, effectiveness & novelty with due importance to the budgetary considerations.
Speaker Deepthi Suri provided very valuable information and great insight on the benefits of Ayurveda in our daily lives. Several fun filled activities were meticulously planned and executed to create a joyful atmosphere in the event that were thoroughly enjoyed by all the ladies after 2 years of pandemic situation. Special games like selfie Lele, Bomma blockbuster and Naari Shakthi by co-chairs engaged and entertained everyone.
The International Women’s Day is celebrated across the world to honor the remarkable hard work and achievements of women in every field. This extraordinary event also acknowledged women’s empowerment by honoring the significant efforts of women to make the world a better place to live in. A life of dignity is the birthright of every woman. Women’s empowerment is key to advancing the development of every country. Empowered women contribute to the health and productivity of whole families and communities and improved prospects for the next generation.
Mrs. Kumar has provided a broad framework for collective action for senior citizens to nurture their innate talents, enrich their groundbreaking ideas and engage in innovative experiences which has become a global model. She has achieved this by providing critically needed services to multiethnic senior citizen population especially the Indian diaspora with employment opportunities, creating more than 10,000 jobs per year, homecare services to over 10,000 homebound seniors mostly Indian diaspora every year by integrating state of art technology with a human touch in this digital age. Her model of service is being replicated in several parts of the world including India.
The programme started with rendition of Gurbani Kirtan with classical Indian string instruments – Taus and Dilruba by youth from Chicago suburbs. Several noted Punjabi academicians, authors, and representatives of Punjabi linguistic/cultural organizations gave presentations on their initiatives to preserve linguistic and cultural heritage of Punjabi immigrants in the US. These included Mr. Ashok Bhaura, Punjabi writer and journalist in California, Dr. Pinderjeet Kaur Gill, Lecturer, Hindi and Punjabi Languages at University of Michigan, Dr. Gurbakhsh Singh Bhandal, a Physicist at Cleveland State University, Ohio, and Mr. Manmohan Grewal, TV Anchor from Utah.
The festival of Lohri holds great significance as it marks the harvest of the rabi crops and the end of winter days. In Northern India, Lohri is usually celebrated with a bonfire. The lighting of a bonfire during this festival is an old tradition. Ancient people lit the bonfire to welcome the return of longer days.
After more than a decade on the South Asian music scene she was honored to receive the ‘Special Contribution Award’ at the UK Bhangra Awards, 2019. She also won her Global Music Award ,2021 for Best Female Vocalist for her latest solo album “Love is my Religion”.
Members celebrating their birthday in January and February were congratulated on their special days. Some members were also presented with awards for their excellent community service and leadership qualities. Award winning members included Ashwin Majumdar, Suresh Amin, Haribhai Lilabem Thakkar, Pinky Thakkar, Aruna Patel and Dilip Patel. Awards were presented by Arvind Patel.
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi in his inimitable style addressed the cheering audience and expressed great joy and best wishes to Team FIA and the entire Indian community for the outstanding contributions, over more than a decade now.
Hitesh Bhatt, Founder & Kim Bhatt, President of the Bhatt Foundation were honored with a Plaque and were acknowledged for their sponsorship support to FIA. In their speech, the Bhatt’s, shared their message of “Improving Global HealthCare and Education through Innovation”. They touched upon their philanthropic work in USA / India / Honduras / Africa and expressed their interest in supporting FIA’s initiatives as well.
Born in the historical year of India’s Independence, 1947, to Shri Govind Lal Kothari and Smt. Sharda Kothari, in a small town of Gujarat called Kadi, Hasmukh finished his education with a degree in Civil Engineering, after which he procured a job as an assistant lecturer in Mumbai. In 1968, Hasmukh married Usha to start a blissful family life.
At the celebration, guests learned about Aimtron Foundation’s mission to bridge the educational gap for young people and their plan to provide manufacturing and technological training in an ever-changing world. They will do this by partnering with other manufacturing industry leaders who will give tours of their facilities, share knowledge and training and ultimately, offer employment opportunities to develop the workforce of the future. Guests were also able to tour the new 35,000 square foot American Pinball facility and learn more about the technology and building of pinball gaming machines.
Mukesh Vasani, a devout family man with two married children who hold leadership positions at the company, founded Aimtron Corporation (now Aimtron Group) in 2008, at the height of the worst economic downturn since the great depression. His vision of starting Aimtron Foundation to kindle the entrepreneurial spark within the next generation is the realization of a dream born from his family, who were farmers back in India.
The event started with traditional lamp lighting by the LAGC executive board and other special guests and devotional singing by Rita Shah and chanting by Gina and Suhani. National Anthems were sung by Dhir, Dhruvi, Neil and Nysa. The event was full of musical surprises with beautiful singing by a variety of melodious singers.
Kirit Thakkar thanked all the guests for attending the events and explained how the association has been working hard to bring the community together. He talked about all the events that LAGC organizes every year.
Lion Hina Trivedi spoke about the selfless efforts by Chicago Indo Us lions club in helping families and kids by donating school supplies, backpacks, coat drive and food drive. The club recently helped many patients in India with ventilators as well.
The celebrations encompassed the ceremonious crowning of Chicago’s City Treasurer Hon. Melissa Conyears-Ervin with a silk colorful headgear symbolizing the crowning appreciation from NCAIA for hosting a grand Diwali in the magnificent iconic City Hall building that was led by Event Convener & Vice President Ajeet Singh joined by NCAIA officers: Harish Kolasani, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Vinesh Virani, Neelam Dwivedi Singh, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Shekhar Misra, Iftekhar Shareef & Nag Jaiswal. NCAIA National President Harish Kolasani welcomed the guests and outlined the mission of National Council of Asian Indian Associations and how it impacted lives especially in recent times contributing towards the goal of eradication of the pandemic.
The events included deepmala as well as katha and kirtan by Bhai Rajinder Singh and Jatha, Bhai Parminderjit Singh and bhai Inderjit Singh Khalsa.
Sikh Religious Society, a non-profit organization, in Palatine, Illinois was formed in 1974 and its first formal Prakash Divas (the ceremonial acceptance of Guru GRANTH Sahib {Sikh’s holy scripture/book} at this new place of worship was celebrated in 1975. The organization focuses on Sikh religious services, Punjabi language/ Kirtan classes. Another focus of this society is on the community service, charity and other Non Profit endeavors to promote the Punjabi culture and heritage.
Another board member Nand Balani elaborated on the initiative called, Alliance of Global Sindhi Association that connects Sindhis all over to the world. The three aims of the alliance focus on matrimonial services, romanized script for sindhi language, and a global sindhi directory.
The event commenced with Honorable Consul General Amit Kumar who addressed the guests. He highlighted India’s freedom struggle and the significant role played by Mahatma Gandhi, who walked the path and preached non-violence throughout his life. He highlighted “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”, which is an initiative of the Government of India to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of India’s progress and the glorious history of its people, culture, and achievements. Consul General praised the Gandhi Memorial Foundation of Chicago Team of Board Members, Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) staff and Consul General staff members lead by Mr. Ranjeet Singh ji, for doing an excellent job in organizing this important event.
Gandhiji ‘s freedom struggle and the injustice done to the motherland emboldened her to become an Attorney to fight for the oppressed. In her speech, she felt the valid reason to talk in Hindi as Hindi being the official language of India. In her assertive speech she emphasized the great saying of Mahatma, “No Religion is higher than the Truth and Righteousness!” She said that Mahatma taught Dedication, Sacrifice and to Stand against Oppression and Wrongful forces, which induced chaos amongst people. A nation should join as one and not get influenced by these wrongful forces. In her speech she urged everybody to follow that and if asked if they were ready to do that!
“The best karma is not the one that has a good result, the best karma is the one that has the best purpose.” Shri Jalaram Mandir follows the similar path of public service, with all its revenue from such programs going to the contribution of the temple. The selfless and free service of Shri Jalaram Mandir, its managing committee and all the volunteers was as excellent as ever with beautiful sound system lighting, security, photography, videography and booths for different businesses. There was free entry for children below 10 years of age, free parking, tea and snacks at reasonable prices, provision of water, cold drinks and free covid testing. The contribution of donors from different fields as sponsors was commendable. All the devotees who came were also very supportive and co-operative.
The event started with national Anthems and lamp lighting followed by the inaugural dance performance by the students of SR Dance Academy. The master of ceremony Madhura Sane kickstarted the event by welcoming all the board of directors and the distinguished guest on to the stage. The President Gladson Varghese delivered his speech to elaborate on the vision behind the initiative of launching AAEIO. He talked about how the organization aims at supporting engineers across the globe by providing them a voice and guidance by the experienced leadership of the organization. Vice President Nitin Maheshweri presented the Vision and 4 pillars of the organization. Chief Guest Consul General of India Mr. Amit Kumar along with Congressman Sean Casten officially Inaugurated the AAEIO by lighting the Lamp. AAEIO also presented the awards to Dr. Deepak Kant Vyas, Mr. Gulzar Singh and Mr. Brij Sharma for their contributionsto the community and becoming successful Engineering Entrepreneurs. 
Dr. Mohanbir Sawhney, Associate Dean, (Northwestern University, Kellogg) delivered an inspirational and informative keynote speech elaborating on his experience and the roles and future of organizations like AAEIO. The speech by the Vice President 2021 Nitin Maheshwari included the plans for the upcoming initiatives taken by AAEIO and how the organization aims at supporting small businesses, fresh graduates as well as the fellow engineers from all across the globe. The president elect 2021 Ajit Pant talked about how AAEIO will act as an umbrella organization for the engineers from all streams of engineering like civil, mechanical, IT, electronics, Electrical and so on. Nag Jaiswal did the Vote of Thanks and he thanked all the sponsors, Dignitaries, AAEO Board and all the Guests for their help and support. 
UCL & E Chicago gold cup this tournament played for 3 days at Skokie and Camera Park yesterday 2 matches was played semi-final and final and we finish final match yesterday at Skokie Sports Park first semi-final was played by cougars v/s Dee park it was hard job for both teams and second semi-final Midwest Cc club v/s yeh/ cheez and final match was played by Midwest Cc club v/s Cougars and Midwest Cc club win the final match and kamran syed win man of the series and Man of the match syed Kabir and best bowler salman khan and best batman syed kamran and in final match and also we gave trophy and cash prize.
It takes 10 seconds to break someone’s life and takes your entire life to give someone new life. In Indian community any reason a person over 50 years old’s wife expires. He has everything except nobody to talk to. He is feeling too lonely and causes mental health problems such as depression. They get addicted to NARCO (Tylenol 3, Vicodin) alcohol, marijuana, and drugs. In severe cases, they commit suicide. On the other hand, no Indian women get ready after 50 years old. This is a massive growing problem in our society, if you find out from seances bureau numbers are very high for them. To resolve this, we have Life Partner U.S.A.
PPA Entertainment is run by Pinky and Dinesh Thakkar, Pratibha Jairath and Ashok Potdar. Pinky Thakkar is a successful female entrepreneur along with a number of talents that she has. A wife, a mother, a brand mother , a businesswoman, and an artist , Ms. Thakkar has been supporting various community initiatives for many years. Pratibha Jairath is a well-known name in the community for her super successful events and artistic skills. Ashok Potdar is known for his community service that he provides running a successful association helping hundreds of senior citizens.
Some guests were recognized for their contributions in their respective fields that included Prachi Jaitly, Phani Krishna and Naveen Karna (AANA Team), Dr Madhu Uppal, Malhan, Ramesh, Dharam Punwani, Raju Bankapur, Shaila Khedkar, Sanjiv Gulati, Ali Khan, Hitesh Gandhi, Anil Loomba, Altaf Bukhari, Pinky Thakkar, Ashok Potdar, Neha Potdar, Pina Potdar, , Saif Ali, Suresh Bodiwala , Niranjan Nathwani, Chirag Shah, Raman Patel, Late Mr. Chitu Patel, Gaurang Ahivasi and Dipti Soni.
S R Dance Academy was first launched on April 28th, 2020 and is a dance school open to all ages and skill levels ranging from beginner to advanced. The main objective of S R Dance Academy is to connect our community with our rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for kids and adults to learn Bollywood Dance and Bolly Zumba from the best Bollywood Choreographer and dance teacher. They have partnered with two incredibly talented Choreographers Elizar Rodriguez and Shirley Rodriguez who have extensive experience working in Bollywood for the past 20 years. They have worked with iconic superstars such as Salman Khan, Varun Dhavan, Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif, and many more, and have performed at prestigious events, such as The IIFA Awards. Not only are they talented dancers, but also have a love for teaching dance.
The In-Person Recital started with our Junior Troupe Team offering their Prayers to Lord Shree Ganesha. It is common in Indian tradition to start an event or a new beginning with a Prayer Song to invoke the blessings of God. Their youngest 4-7 years age category kids showcased their talents with a Bollywood Act on Baby Ko Cake Pasand Hai song which was a treat to the eyes with their charming dance movements. Bolly-Hop by 12-21 years group showcased a vivacious act through The Jawani Song. Dangal Song was performed by 8-11 years group kids which has a great message conveyed through the song – ‘Whenever fate gives you a chance to do something and prove yourself, work at it and you’ll reap the reward’ and Adult Filmy Act had the parents dancing their heart-outs for a mix of Bollywood Songs. Adults proved that age is just a number when it came to dancing their hearts out. The Bolly-Hop & Semi-Classical act was performed in the 12-21 years category. Act 13 had our own Choreographers showing their prowess as to why they are the best in the town.