Suresh Shah
CHICAGO: The symphonic choir presenting melodious Christmas carols was eclipsed only by the grand entry of huge convoy of Kerala drum-beats headed by fully attired dancing Santa Claus. This marked the kick-off of a spectacular Christmas Nite Banquet at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows on December 14.
The festive fervor was highlighted with dazzling dance performances and musical carols each unveiling the beautiful story of Christmas depicted through songs, dance and music.
The Banquet was hosted under the aegis of South Asian Christian Cultural Association [SACCA]. It attracted a great number elected officials including U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, State Senator-elect Ram Villivalam, Oakbrook Mayor Dr Gopal Lalmalani, Bishop. The event was also graced by the presence of Jacob Angadiath, Air-India’s Chief Malini Vaidyanathan, SBI Chief Amit Jhingran, community activist Dr Deepakant Vyas and a large number of business leaders including Ashok Lakshmanan, PM Mortgage, Ajeet Singh, Harish Kolasani, Prachi Jaitley, Murthy Kopaka, Rajesh Vadlamudi, Sridhar Mumgandi, and Dhitu Bhagvakar.
The banquet started with lamp lighting ceremony by Raja Krishnamoorthi, Margaret Sanyogita Charles, Shirley Kalvakota and Persis Dadepogu. In  his remarks Krishnamoorthi applauded the organizers and extolled the spirit of Christmas, which he emphasized, fosters peace, goodwill and love. He said he would like to see a public figure emerging from the south Indian Christian community. He thanked Gladson Varghese and Keerthi Kumar Ravoori and his team for hosting this grand event of Christmas.
He presented special plaques of appreciation to Ashok Lakshmanan, Amit Jhingran and Joseph of Joyallukas Jewelry. Malini Vaidyanathan of Air-India was honored with floral bouquets. State Senator Ram Villivalam [elect] presented seasons’ greetings and thanked the community for all the support he has received in his electoral victory as the new State Senator in the 8th Senatorial district.
Bishop Jacob Angadiath gave an uplifting Christmas sermonette that presented the central theme of the birth of Jesus Christ, which he said, is very foundation of Christmas.
The highlight of the evening was ethereally melodious carols and anthems presented by the acclaimed St. Thomas Marthoma Church choir with over 30 singers directed by Choir Director Jacob George in a repertoire performance enhanced by candlelit ambience with a sparkling collection of carols. Young dancers drawn from Kala Dance Academy, choreographed by Ruth Varghese and Surya Dance Academy, illustrated the story of Christmas.
Earlier, Gladson Varghese, Banquet Chairman welcomed the elected officials and all the guests. Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Banquet Convener served as the emcee, introduced the chief guests, and elected officials. Emmanuel Neela, President SACCA presented seasonal remarks and outlined future programs; while Vasanth Charles presented an overview of the history of South Asian Christian Cultural Assn [SACCA] and Satish Dadepogu proposed a vote of thanks.
The Telugu carols were presented by Johnson Kodipally, Merari Bushpaka, Vijay, Michael Konda, Tony Chettupally, Mohit, Sheetal and Komal Panchal; while the closing Christmas skit was presented by Rev. Rajamani Gounu, Rev. Dr. David Vidyasagar, Rev. Omega Verma, Dan Williams, Prem with musical score by Michael Konda.
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