Fundraiser organized for justice to Pravin

Pravin Varughese who died in suspcious circumstances 20 months ago
Pravin Varughese who died in suspcious circumstances 20 months ago

CHICAGO: A “Justice for Pravin Fundraising Program”, preceded by a high-profile public meeting, was organized by a group of leading Indian Americans in Chicago to create awareness about the suspicious death of Pravin Mathew Varughese, a 19-year old multi-talented student a year ago.

The student of criminal justice died in mysterious circumstances and there were glaring discrepancies in the two autopsy reports, inordinate delay on the part of Police in apprehending the culprits even after the lapse of 20 months, problems in the legal system, and the long and painful journey of Pravin’s parents in seeking justice.

The events were attended by over 1000 committed social activists and those wanting justice for all. Another highlight of the three hour event was musical and cultural presentations.

Morton Grove Mayor Dan Di Maria in his inaugural address at the public meeting said that he and his village will proactively support Pravin’s family in taking their fight for justice to its logical conclusion. Senator Mike Noland stated that he will not only write to the Attorney-General to initiate swift action in the case but will also intervene, whenever required, to ensure expeditious processing of the case.

Daya Bhai, a human rights activist from India, expressed shock over the delay in delivering justice in Pravin’s case in a country like the US, which is a global human rights champion.

Cyriac Koovakkattil welcomed the dignitaries to the public meeting. Lovely Varughese, mother of Pravin, gave an update on the case and the roadblocks they encountered in getting justice. Mariamma Pillai and Gladson Varughese assured that that the entire community will rally behind Pravin’s family in order to boost their morale. Raju Varghese proposed a Vote of thanks.

The Justice for Pravin Fundraising Program “Rithubahar”, (Colors of Rhythm) was a state-of-the-art dance and music symphony presented by a group of artists from India, including Jagadessh, a leading Malayalam movie star, Pandit Ramesh Narayan, a famous musician, composer, and singer, two eminent singers Madhushree Narayan and Nishad, and five classical dancers: Rachna Narayankutty, Athira Shankar, Dr. Anjana Jha, Sajeev and Madhu. Vinod Mankara, a Malayalam movie maker was Director of the show.

The singers captured the hearts of the audience by singing the famous songs: “Prayanmaranna Paribhavangal” and “Oru Narupushpamayi”, composed by Pandit Ramesh Narayan. They proved their multilingual musical credentials by rendering a number of melodious Hindi ghazals too and mesmerizing the audience.

The dancers presented Classical, Fusion, Mohiniyatam, Kathak, and many more dance forms. Their movements were flawless, dignified, and full of life. The depth of emotions was compelling. The spectators were floored to witness a variety of classical dance styles in a single show.

The proceeds of the fundraising program will go to a memorial fund which has been created to assist Pravin’s family in their campaign to get justice and also to address preventive measures to ensure that such tragedies do not take place again.

Asian Media USA