CHICAGO: The Gandhi Samaj of Chicago (GSC), one of the oldest cultural organizations of Indian Americans in the US, had the double delight of celebrating its 31st anniversary and also Diwali on November 14 at Maine East High School, Park Ridge. It was attended by a large number of people, along with their families and friends.
The event started with singing of American National Anthem by Sriya Gandhi and the Indian National Anthem by Daksh and Isha.
Ashwin Bodalia, President, called upon people to illuminate their hearts, rather than merely their physical surroundings by committing themselves to bring about a positive change in lives.
Dr Ausaf Sayeed, Consul General of India in Chicago, who was the Guest of Honor, said that keeping the Indian culture alive in a foreign land is a huge challenge. “The young generation should take inspiration from the commitment of youth belonging to GSC to their culture and keep the flag of Indian culture flying high across the US”, he added.
Sunil Shah, who was the Chief Guest at the event, called upon the people to pledge to follow the path of righteousness, and thereby take the message of Diwali to its logical conclusion. “If we start helping people in need, each day of our life will turn out to be as auspicious as Diwali”, he added.
Awards were given to Dr Ausaf Sayeed for his rich contribution in promoting India’s culture abroad, Sunil Shah for his outstanding services to people of Asian Indian community in Chicago.
Bhumika Gandhi for her contribution as a President of the Samaj, Rita Gandhi for her exceptional services to the community, Hitesh Gandhi for his involvement not only in the Samaj but also other organizations, and to Vandana Jhingan for her contribution to Indian community in Chicago area.
The cultural program commenced with the performance of Bharatanayam by Krishna Gandhi, which was a beautiful prayer to Lord Ganesha, the God of Wisdom.
Junoon Dance Company presented a classical dance performance. Another unique classical music performance was by Bindu Pathak and her students. Shalini Saxena and Alpesh Gandhi enthralled the audience by rendering choicest classics of Bollywood. Mona Bhalla sang ‘Chttiyan kalaiaan” and a few Gujarati songs. Her three daughters, Manpreet Bhalla, Simran Bhalla, and Kiran Bhalla, danced to the catchy tunes. Lovish, Mahi Thakur and Anand Bhatt presented a captivating contemporary dance performance.
Rohan and Mansi Gandhi presented a dance performance to “Selfie Le le”, Risha Bhagat and Lovepreet Singh, to “Dhol Bhaje” and Krishna Modi and Tanisha Naik, to “Sadda Dil Bhi Tu”.
Bhumika Gandhi proposed a vote of thanks. Reshma Gandhi and Vivek Gandhi were the MCs at the event.
“Thanks to all the sponsors of the grand event without whose support it would not be possible to have such a wonderful event “said Hitesh Gandhi, Exec Vice President of Gandhi Samaj.
The 2016 Executive Board of Gandhi Samaj comprises Keyur Ghayal (President), Hitesh Gandhi (Exec VP), Bhumika Gandhi (Vice President), Ashwin Bodalia (Treasurer), Manhar Gajjar (Secretary), Bharat Ghayal (Joint Secretary), Hary Gandhi (Joint Secretary), Hiral Gandhi (Joint Secretary), Hiren Ghayal (Joint Secretary), Ramesh Gandhi (Joint Secretary), Priya Ghayal (Youth Secretary) and Roma Bhagat (Cultural Secretary).
Asian Media USA
