Seniors of Chicago celebrate India Day

Chicago: Members of Indian Seniors of Chicago (ISC) met at Manav Seva Mandir on Saturday August 11 for the celebration of Independence Day, Raksha Bandhan, Janmashtami and Birthday of senior members.
Bipin Shah, highlighted the importance of August 15, observed that Independence was achieved thru peaceful non-violent resistance and civil disobedience led by Mahatma Gandhi and Indian National Congress. There was singing of Indian national anthem, Jana Gana Mana. This was followed by a presentation of a parade encompassing show of mighty Indian Army, Navy, Air force and paramilitary forces besides showcasing events from the struggle for independence as well as cultural traditions of the country were also included.
Around 135 members attended the program. The start was with prayers and chanting of Hanuman Chalisa. Bhajans appropriate to the celebration of Janmashtami were chanted led by Hema Shastri.

Chitranjan Desai talked about the two-day tour to Maharishi Vedic City, Fairfield, Iowa and July 14 picnic. Hirabhai Patel gave highlights of the recent 9-day bus tour to Las Vegas, Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam.
Next, the celebration of members birthdays in the month of August were recognized with greeting cards and gift booklets by Dr. Chandrakant Modi, president of Indian Cremation of Chicagoland. Hema Shastri gave the history, meaning and significance of Raksha Bandhan. Some of the lady members performed “Garba”. Sureshbhai Bodiwala, a guest speaker and community activist, spoke on values of volunteering service for humankind by giving various examples. Dr Chandrakant Modi spoke on Hindu/Jain/ Sikh cremation facilities available for use by the community.
Jashvant Sheth gave information about the Nand Mahotsav celebration organized in Manav Seva Mandir and asked for observing two minutes’ silence in memory of members Rameshbhai Gandhi, Suresh Dalal and recent Milwaukee shooting victims. The meeting concluded with a delicious lunch.

Asian Media USA