SURESH BODIWALA
CHICAGO: The Gujarat Cultural Association (GCA), Chicago, the first and largest Gujarati association in Chicago Metropolitan Area, hosted its annual Diwali gala at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows, a northside suburb of Chicago which was attended by a large number of families, friends, and community leaders of the city.
The Mayuri Musical Group performed in the event
Emceed by Amisha Patel, the event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by chief guest, Dr Subhash Patel, Indian Consul General in Chicago Sudhakar Dalela, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Kanti and Jyoti Patel, Jyotendra and Geeta Patel, Air India manager Malini, Dr Nita Patel, Mohammad Tariq from Hanmi Bank, Richard Boykin, Anil Shah from World Money Exchange, Hari Patel, and Manu Patel from AAHOA. Dr. Manish Brahmbhatt introduced chief guest Dr Subash Patel to the gathering.
Dr. Patel thanked GCA for the honor, especially Kanti Patel who then welcomed Consul General Dalela and Congressman Krishnamoorthi and pitched them to speak to the guests
Amisha Patel announced awards for two successful individuals in the Indian community, Shrujal Patel and Prajesh Patel, that were presented by Dalela and Krishnamoorthi.
Other prominent leaders, community members, and a distinguished businessman were recognized on the stage by Kanti Patel, chairman of GCA They were presented with bouquets of flowers. Also honored were Leslie Danford, Mitesh Patel, Anil Shah, Dr Anuja Gupta, Ashok Punjabi, Salil Mishar, Mohmmad Tariq, and Malini.
Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year, Kanti S. Patel thanked everyone for continued support cooperation and participation in the events. The evening ended with a dinner accompanied by a Musical performance by the Mayuri Musical Group.