CHICAGO: Beautiful strains of melodious Carols, euphonic musical presentations, colorful dances, message-centric skits and inspiring sermons marked the grand Christmas Banquet organized by United Christian Cultural Association [UCCA] at the Bristol Court Palace in Mount Prospect, ( a northwest Chicago suburb) on Saturday, December 13.
This luminous festive event was attended by a number of Christian families besides members of Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities – thus implicitly making a grand inter-faith and inter-denominational Christmas celebrations.
The Chief Guest Consul General Dr. Ausaf Sayeed in his remarks recalled his schooling days at a Catholic school and how he is familiar with the values and tenants of Christianity. He lauded the role of Christians in building modern India adding that a small minority of Christian population made notably significant contributions in the field of imparting quality education and providing health care services. Dr Sayeed gave away Community Leadership awards to Dr Nandan Thogaru, Dr Regi Paul & Sharath Kalvakota.
Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, a community activist and head of FIA, was also a principal organizer of this event. In his remarks, he thanked Consul General and praised him for bringing about remarkable reforms to the office of the Consulate General in Chicago. He honored CG Sayeed with a colorful shawl and flower bouquet.
Raju Enoch Pasumarthi, UCCA President, explained how UCCA continues to blaze new trails in ushering inspiring programs that seeks to uplift the Telugu Christian community in ways that they have made a difference in the lives of the people. Emmanuel Neela, Vice President, outlined UCCA’s vision statement and spelled out the future programs.
Vasanth Charles UCCA Director who served as the Emcee described how UCCA began its journey seven years ago and how it continues to evolve into a vibrant organization of great purpose in the community. Shirley Kalvakota who was co-emcee explained the significance of Christmas and said Christmas is all about ‘giving and sharing’ the good gifts the God has blessed with.
Guest Speaker Rev. Peter Pereira explained the central story of Christmas which he said is the sacred birth of Jesus Christ to rid the sins of the world. He emphasized on the significance of Christmas which he said exemplifies hope, peace and joy. Katherine Thorat of Air-India appreciated the community for availing the services of Air-India in traveling to India.
Iftekhar Shareef also joined on stage to offer Christmas greetings. Ramarao Kanakapudi proposed a vote of thanks.
Another highlight of the Christmas extravaganza was the Indian Talent contest that showcased singing competition with judges’ panel led by Dr Nandan Thogaru, Dr Vijay Kiran and Samson Yenebere. Praveen Neetipudi presented an outstanding dance presentation in which he illustrated the joy of Christmas celebration; while young children Saritha Pasumarthi, Deena and Alina presented a very graceful lamp dance.
The Choir members dressed in colorful traditional Indian attires presented a string of carols full of gusto and melody. A special souvenir was released by a group of Pastors & Church leaders. The evening concluded with the serving of fine dinner.
Suri Swamy
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