Punjabi Americans organize Teeyan Da Mela

Teeyan Da Mela Organizing Committee and Sponsors
Teeyan Da Mela Organizing Committee and Sponsors

CHICAGO: Punjabi American Organization (PAO) organized their 12th annual Teeyan Da Mela on Sunday July 24 at Waterford Banquet Elmhurst dedicated to Bibi Jaswant Kaur Dhaliwal. Teeyan is the dance festival of Punjabis, celebrated by women in the month of Sawan.

The eagerly awaited event showcased even very bashful timid ladies coming forward to show their hidden talent. Teeyan is an honorable word in Punjabi culture which gives great recognition and respect to women as mother, daughter, and daughter-in-law.

The festival continues from the 3rd lunar day in the month of Sawan till the full moon day. Punjabi Americans Organization aims to promote unity and progress and preservation of age old rich culture and tradition of Punjab.

This year the event took place under the leadership of Naiha Walia, President of PAO. The banquet hall was crowded with over 500 attendees. Ladies and children were dressed in multicolored Indian time-honored clothes. The organizing committee welcomed the audience and thanked all the sponsors for their donations.

The event started with the traditional open Dholki, where the audience was invited on to the stage to participate in group singing of Punjabi traditional opening “Saun da mahina” songs. This was followed by MC and Punjabi singer Deepika Singh taking the stage. Vibrant Dance Punjabney Shaukeen Kudiye performance was followed by singers from Midwest region singing song “Saanu Ik Pal Chain Na Aavey” entertaining the crowd. The dance by Saroj Berry, Dhol Play and Two Songs by Sabrina Sappal, a rising star among youngsters, were well received.

This year PAO introduced ‘Mrs Punjaban’ contest determined by individual personality, beauty and talent. Total seven contestants participated. The First (winner) was Prabh Khaira and Second winner (runner up) Simran Kaur. Prabh Khaira was crowned Mrs Punjaban.

Fashion show electrified the air. Models walked the ramp with a mixed blend of custom designed outfits and dresses which had Swaroski work, hand embroidery, detailed thread work, crystal stone patterns, gottapatti by elite designers of GetEthic.com.

Beautiful and budding models sparkled with their amazing catwalk and attitude on ramp displaying outfits such as stunning suits, spectacular sarees, splendid lehengas, trousseau collection and heavy pure silk gorgeous bridal wear as the showstopper worn by none other than Ms Illinois.

Teeyan Da Mela Organizing Committee was called on stage and was recognized. Jaggo and Gidha was open for audience. Dhol Play Gidha or traditional group folk dance won the audience’s heart. This event was performed by ladies of all age groups from audience.

There were different stalls for Mehndi, Jewelry, Gift Items, Punjabi Suits and Kurtis. In addition to Giddha, Dholki, singing and dancing with live music, delicious Indian snacks and delicious gourmet lunch was served.

The Chief Guest was Mrs Debra Dhaliwal. Teeyan Da Mela Sponsors were called on stage and reorganized with award. Food was catered by India House restaurant.

Asian Media USA