CHICAGO: The new board of Indian Community of Niles Township (ICNT) celebrated India’s 66th Republic Day on February 14 at the Skokie Public Library in the Petty Auditorium with cultural music and dance performances.
Frigid cold weather and gusty winds notwithstanding, the auditorium was full to capacity. The audience cheered every performance and fully enjoyed making it a very successful affair.
The event was interspersed with remarks by the organizers, Mayor George Van Dusen of Skokie Village, Carolyn Anthony, Director of Skokie Public Library, Sunil Shah, founding president of FIA, Mrs. Gulzar Khemani of Sahara Elderly Care and guests. Among the other dignitaries present were Pramod Shah, Village Clerk, Trustees of Skokie Village, Om Prakash Kamaria, President, Gandhi Memorial Trust, prominent community leaders like Amar Upadhyay and members of United Senior Pariwar.
Virendra Patel and other volunteers from United Senior Pariwar decorated the stage with tricolored long cloth and set two national flags. The auspicious lamp lighting ceremony was performed by Rohit Joshi, president of ICNT, George Van Dusen Mayor of Skokie, Sunil Shah founding president of FIA. Rohit Joshi also explained the significance of lamp lighting ceremony.
Mayor George Van Dusen appreciated ICNT activities and declared he was ready to support more cultural events in future. He briefly recalled the history of India and introduced Pramod Shah and other officers from Skokie Village Hall. Gulzar Kemani made the audience aware about her organization. Amita Bhargav, Srcretary, ICNT emceed the program very well. DJ Nilesh kept the crowd entertained during the show.
The event showcased dance performances by the Payaliya Dance Studio, Bal Uday Dance School, Surya Dance School, Kalapadma Dance Academy and Ayan Das and Anusha Das. Vocal performances of old, current and patriotic Bollywood songs were performed by Shaila Khedkar and Manish Bhide. They were both a hit with the crowd. Sunil Shah congratulated Rohit Joshi, Usha Kamaria and their team for celebrating Republic Day of India together.
Vote of thanks was presented by Vijai Gupta, Vice President and Bhavik Patel, Jt. Secretary. Snacks boxes were served to the audience.
Surendra Ullal
