On May 19, 2024, the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago, in collaboration with Desi Junction, celebrated Mother’s Day at Ashyana Banquets, and also announced the upcoming Star Awards. The event was conceptualized and managed by Jassi Parmar and the Desi Junction Team.
The evening began with a Social Hour, featuring a performance by Payel Ganguly & Group, who focused on Bollywood songs about motherhood and families.
FIA Chairman and Founder Sunil Shah, Vice-Chairman Neil Khot, President Pratibha Jairath, and past President Vinita Gulabani took the stage to officially start the program. Shah recounted FIA’s past achievements, Jairath highlighted the importance of celebrating Mother’s Day, Khot built anticipation by hinting at surprises, and Gulabani elaborated on FIA’s contributions to the community.
Chief guests Consul General of India Somnath Ghosh and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi spoke about the significant role mothers play in shaping families and society, emphasizing how they help us become better citizens.
The prestigious “Star Awards” trophy, symbolizing excellence and achievement within the community, was unveiled by the chief guests. FIA announced various award categories, including Entrepreneur of the Decade, Best Medical Professional, Best Community Organization, and Community Leader of the Year.
FIA Ambassadors for the evening, Falguni Sukhadia, Priyanka Parekh, and Hemendra Shah, efficiently managed the awards presentations and backstage operations.
Several accomplished mothers were honored for their sacrifices and dedication. The awardees included Anandita Ghosh, Riya Krishnamoorthi, Santosh Kumar, Smita N. Shah, Sweety Loomba, Dr. Kruti Vyas, Punima Brahmbhatt, Kanan Dhingra, Aishwarya Sharma, Jaspreet Kaur, Promila Kumar, Mini Multani, Dr. Sunita Narang, Milli Jain, Asha Raj Khanna, Smita Shah, Sukhi Singh, and Kelly Suga.
Rita Shah, Sunil Shah’s wife, wished everyone a very Happy Mother’s Day and surprised the awardees with a heartfelt rendition of ‘Kitni Achchhi Hai, Tu Kitni Bholi Hai Pyaari Pyaari Hai O Maa’, celebrating the invaluable role of mothers.
The evening also featured a classical dance performance by Rasika Bandekar and a medley of dance numbers by Dancing Divas (Trusha). An open dance floor followed, allowing attendees to enjoy the vibrant beats.
Towards the end of the event, attendees were treated to another surprise, sponsored by Ramesh Punater and Naresh Shah, who provided special prizes in categories such as Best Dancer and Most Enthusiastic Person.
Kamlesh Kapoor led the Tech team, while Dinesh Kapoor and Atul Wahi managed ticket control and guest seating for over 300 attendees.
Looking ahead, the “Star Awards” will also celebrate India’s 78th Independence Day with a red-carpet event on August 16, 2024, at Matrix Club, as announced by FIA.
