CHICAGO: Indian Community Outreach (ICO) hosted a kick-off ceremony of Grand India Day Celebrations for 2018 India Day marking 71 years of India’s Independence. The event was attended by over 100 guests including Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, Naperville Park District Chair Mike Reilly, elected officials & representatives, sponsors, and community leaders.
This year’s India Day will again take place at Knock Park in Naperville on August 12 and will feature a grand colorful parade and a concert by Bollywood rock star Sukhwinder Singh, concluding with display of fireworks.
Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, Chief Guest at the event, said, “India Day Celebration in a short span of just three years has become a very impressive event showcasing the Indian culture and heritage.” He noted heights achieved by ICO in just 4 years that usually take decades to reach. He congratulated ICO for achieving the goal of educating and integrating the communities while enhancing economic interest of Naperville.
ICO recently received the Illinois Bicentennial Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Award from Illinois State Governor Bruce Rauner for the Significant Community Contributions and became the first Indian American organization to receive this honor. 2018 India Day has also been inducted as part of Illinois Bicentennial celebrations.
While speaking about the history and purpose behind formation of ICO, Krishna Bansal, Chairman of ICO said that 2018 India Day Celebration would be one of the largest and best Indian American events in United States. Bollywood Rock Star Sukhwinder Singh will be the star performer.
There would be multiple activities lined up from morning 11 am to 9:30 pm that includes International Food Court, Ethnic Indian Bazaar, Children’s park, Local Talent show, Indian Fashion Show, Parade, Bollywood Concert, Colorful Fireworks and many more to be added in the activities.
Alderman at City of Aurora, Rick Mervine, was a special guest who emphasized the necessity of civic engagement for the Indian American Community. Patty Gustin, Naperville Councilwoman applauded ICO for its efforts and urged everyone to come forward and become engaged.
Earlier Viral Shah, treasurer of ICO Board, welcomed the guests and spoke of its three years of achievements. Shah highlighted ICO’s efforts in different programs/engagements including ‘Conversations’ for enhancing Civic Participation and Social Awareness; ‘Lotus Scholarship & Awards’ to recognize students and leaders of Indian origin in every field; Indian businesses networking and education forums; India Day Showcasing and Celebrating Cultures; Contributing to various charity initiatives and participation in local events to represent Indian American community.
Chirag Jani, ICO board member and India Day co-chair, said this is an excellent opportunity for businesses to showcase their brand and products in front of thousands of people while seen as a supporter of social and cultural diversity.ICO, initiated in 2013 by Naperville Mayor A. George Pradel, is a no profit organization that helps foster connections with residents of varied and diverse cultural backgrounds.
Ashfaq Syed
