CHICAGO: It was the very first attempt on the part of a group of community activists headed by Shamkant, Ajit Gandhi, Jdivenkar, Harendra Mangrola, Nirav Patel, Vinesh Virani and Ms Jhingan to host Hindu Heritage Day to showcase the basic thoughts and philosophy that mould Hindu behavior and action as also its rich cultural heritage.
The event held on July 26 at Bussee Woods forest turned out to be a highly informative and encouraging event that prompted the organizers to announce that this would be an annual affair. It would be held on a bigger scale encompassing a wider range of art, philosophy, literature and festivities that could create a greater awareness about Hinduism not only among second generation Hindus but also among the mainstream Americans as well.
The group of activists organizing the event were among the main cadres of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, the host organization, and they saw to it that the event passed with all those attending enjoying every moment.
The attendance was relatively thin but people kept on coming and going out through out the day starting from 10-30 am in the morning. “There were a few other events and that impacted the attendance here,” pointed out Ajit Gandhi, Vice President of VHP.
Gajendrasinh Solanki, a lyricist and poet from Delhi, was the guest speaker and he really enthralled the audience with his inspiring speech and deep message. He mentioned that wherever an Indian goes to any part of the world, he still cherishes his love and attachment for motherland because it has taught him to be a decent member of a society with ethical values. He also pitched for unity as it is important to keep up the traditions and values that the Indian society cherishes.
In a very lyrical manner, he touched upon the fight for values and independence by a good number of Indians – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Rana Pratap, Jhansi Ki Rani Laxmibai, Khudi Ram Bose, Netaji Subhash Bose and scores of others. He also eulogized the sacrifice that the Indian women like Maharani Padmini and her aides made to save their honor.
Swami Isthamandandji was the Chief Guest and he formally launched open the event. Swamiji is the chief of Swami Vivekanand Society and it was apt for him to light the ceremonial lamp. Air India Midwest Manager, Nakul Chand, was also an honored guest and he picked up winning Raffle numbers.
Kids had a good time flying kites while adults enjoyed good food, good music and beautiful weather which made Vinesh Virani to comment that “even God wants us to succeed.” There were fifteen vendors running food stalls that offered mouth watering dishes. Among the vendors were Care for Soul, Hare Krishna, Gayatri group, the newly set up Hanuman temple representatives, Swami Mukundanda meditation camp and Science of Spirituality touting their vegi fest.
The event in all was a successful affair and as put by Madhu Patel,
“We would like to come here next year in bigger numbers.”
Arvind Patel & Jayanti Oza
Thank You For Your Vote!
Sorry You have Already Voted!
