CHICAGO: Over 250 members of the American Association of Retired Asians (AARA) and guests flocked to Shahi Banquet in Lombard, a southwest suburb of Chicago, to bid goodbye to 2015 and to usher in 2016. They demonstrated that they are second to none in terms of showcasing youthful zest and gusto in welcoming the New Year.
The singers from RH Entertainment, Manmeet Kaur and Rajesh Chalam accompanied by well-equipped orchestra, did a great job by rendering hit tracks of Bollywood and made the evening an occasion to remember.
Manmeet Kaur kick started the musical evening with two captivating numbers, “Aage Bhi Jaane Na Tu Peechhe Bhi Jaane Na Tu” and “Gali Mein Aaj Chand Nikla, Jaane Kitne Dinoon Ke Baad” and received a huge round ofapplause for her stylish presentation. She was followed by Rajesh Chalam who presented all-time favorites, including “Mere sapnon ki rani kabaayegi tu, Aayi rut mastaani kab aaye gi tu” andTere bina tere bina dil nahi lagda”. Manmeet Kaur and Rajesh Chalam rendered a wave of well-known duets, which were full of energy, and mesmerized the audience.
A good number of seniors danced merrily matching the beats of the captivating songs.The extremely freezing and chilly weather, instead of dampening their spirits, further uplifted their festive mood.
At the stroke of midnight, balloons dropped from the ceiling and everyone got up to wish each other a very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.
Dr Talat Khan, Founder President said that while the South Asian immigrant community is diverse in terms of religion, region, language, etc., AARA provides a unique platform that unites them all. “Even though they are retirees, they prefer to contribute to the well-being of society”, she added.
Dr Ghousia Sultana, an eminent Chicago-based litterateur, observed that members of AARA, even though old in terms of age, are no longer prisoners of the old value system; instead of resisting change, they have been proactively welcoming each and every new change that is in the interest of society.
As usual, Shahi Banquet laid out a spectacular feast, comprising cuisines from different regions.
“We always eat bald food, considering our advancing age, health-related issues, and our doctors’ advice. However, on the eve of the New Year, we decided to listen to our heart, rather than to the doctors’ advice, and relished the tempting and tasty food”, said Jugnu Khan board member of AARA.
Ahsan Hafeez, board member of AARA proposed welcome address and vote of thanks. Indra Makhija, board member AARA, received senior citizens at the reception.
Asian Media USA
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