CHICAGO: As we celebrate India’s 68th Independence Day through cultural and community programs, unity among Indian Americans is most desirable, remarked Dr Ausaf Sayeed, Indian Consul General in Chicago.
He was addressing a large gathering of Indian American community at FIA Gala Banquet on Sunday evening at Meadows Club near Chicago. Dr Sayeed, known for his community instinct within a short period of his tenure, said that at first he thought he would not be able to attend the FIA dinner as Consul General and depute his staff, but was happy that he could finally make it.
Dr Sayeed reiterated for unity among Indian Americans throughout his speech. He cited recent elections in India as the example of world’s great democracy. He hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his pro-public administration.
From his first day in office, Prime Minister Modi has steered administration for public service. At Indian Consulate Chicago we did the same pro-public approach. Dr Sayeed said that the day he took over in Chicago he wanted the consulate office service oriented and community friendly. “We are here to serve you and our doors are open for the Midwest Indian American community,” he said.
Earlier, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, FIA president welcomed the guests and inaugurated the event. Keerthi said as an Umbrella organization of diverse Indian organizations FIA stands for the great Indian ideals of unity. He said tonight celebration dinner gives us an opportunity to collectively celebrate Indian Independence Day. And of course, he said, there is lot of entertainment and great colorful Parade and Mela to follow on next weekend.
Keerthi announced that celebrity Zee TV Stars Mohit Malik and Neha Marda will walk through India Parade this Saturday on Devon Ave.
While community pulse Iftekhar Shareef could not make it as his departure from Hyderabad was delayed, other FIA senior trustees and prominent community members were seen among the guests. A ceremonial lamp was lit for the inauguration of Independence Day celebration jointly by Indian Consulate General and other FIA trustees.
Community awards were also distributed for outstanding achievement among Midwest Indian Americans. Poonam Gupta, Ajeet Singh were among award winners. The event was also supported by Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways and Emirates. A vote of thanks was given by Sanhita Agnihotri.
The FIA planned a three-day celebration of India Independence Day beginning with Sunday Gala dinner. An Indian flag hosting ceremony and cultural program will be hosted at Daily Plaza Washington Street down town Chicago on Friday at 11.30 am. Iftekhar Shareef will be the Chairperson for flag hosting ceremony. A grand India Parade will be taken out on Devon Ave on Saturday August 16, followed by a Mela on Warrn Park.
A.Q. Siddiqui
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