CHICAGO: The Association of Indians in America (AIA), Illinois Chapter, celebrated India’s Independence Day at the Daley Plaza on August 13 starting with the Flag Hoisting ceremony by the Consul General of India in Chicago, Dr Ausaf Sayeed.
He was joined by AIA office bearers including Dr Ghanshyam Pandey, National President, Naren Patel, National Vice President, Ms. Beena Patel, Illinois Chapter Vice President.
The formal program then started with the welcome from Naren Patel, who talked about AIA activities and achievements specifically mentioning that AIA promotes and provides the best wide-ranging services to the immigrant population of India. AIA represents the spirit of immigrants who strive to achieve the American dream while maintaining their cultural heritage.
Dr Ghanshyam Pandey in his remarks outlined the importance of India Day for the people of Indian origin in the United States and said that the AIA has a tradition of celebrating it with great pride and joy. “We would also like our children to know about our heritage, and the American people about our struggle for independence. We are committed and loyal to our adopted land, that is USA, but still have love and pride for our motherland from where we came,” he said amidst applause
India has made tremendous progress in all areas, but most importantly the image of India has changed drastically in the United States, partly due to Indian immigrants here. Americans now have a better image and perception of India.
In his remarks, the new CG Dr Ausaf Sayeed, congratulated the AIA for continuously celebrating India Day in Chicago and then talked briefly about the tremendous progress India has made in many areas since its independence. Dr Fanchion Blumenberg, who represented Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Cook County Circuit Court, said, “The celebration of India’s Independence Day mirrors the United States Independence Day celebration, and we are all proud to be part of the occasion that honors liberty, supports justice, values freedom and peace in the atmosphere of tolerance.”
This was followed by a cultural program. The highlight was a patriotic dance “Rang De Basanti” performed by Mohini, Amani, and Suhanee, and also a dance program by Payalia Dance Academy, choreographed by Trupti Patel and performed by Isheeta, Priya, Keerti.
Anil Sharma sang many patriotic songs on this occasion. Beena Patel was the Master of Ceremonies. Vote of Thanks was proposed by Anil Sharma, Member of the Board of Trustees. The celebration was attended by a large gathering at the Daley Plaza.
Surendra Ullal
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