More than 500 people attended the celebration of India’s 76th Republic Day, hosted by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-Chicago), January 25, 2025, at the Ashyana Banquets.
The event marked the start of Anu Malhotra’s leadership as FIA’s President for 2025. Malhotra conducted the proceedings, and emphasized the spirit of unity and pride in Indian heritage to jumpstart the event.
The evening began with flute recitals by Raju Bankapur during the cocktail hours.
A Ganesh Vandana dance performance by Aashna, invoked blessings for the evening ahead. The audience then stood to singh the national anthems of India and the United States.
The cultural program included a patriotic group dance by Ghungroo Performing Arts.
The FIA Founder and Chairman, Sunil Shah, in his speech, shared the organization’s journey and vision. Shah, along with Vinita Gulabani, and Hitesh Gandhi officially introduced Anu Malhotra as the President for 2025.
The Consul General of India in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Illinois, in their speeches, highlighted the Indian-American community’s achievements and contributions.
A ceremonial lamp lighting ceremony was held.
Apart from Rep. Krishnamoorthi and Consul General Ghosh, the dignitaries included Representative Michelle Mussman, Mayor Larry Herman, Mayor Rodney Craig, Mayor Tom Dailly, Commissioner Kevin Morrison, Alderwoman Swetha Baid, Nimish Jani, Chintan Patel, Dr Parag Doshi. Dr Sreenivas Reddy, Dinesh Thakkar & Pinky Thakkar, Dr Dilip Shah, Ajeet Singh, Nag Jaiswal, Harjinder Khaira, J P Khaira, Gulzar Singh, Meghna Bansal, Asha Oroskar, Harish Kolsani, Pradeep Shukla, Dr Suresh Reddy, and Lakhvir Sahota.
The cultural extravaganza continued with a group dance by the Shilzar Dance Company, followed by one of the evening’s key highlights—the FIA Scholarship Awards ceremony.
Led by Chandini Duvvuri and Vinita Gulabani, five outstanding students were recognized for their academic achievements and community service. Nag Jaiswal and Meghna Bansal encouraged the youth to pursue their dreams with determination and excellence.
Service and media awards were presented, honoring individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to the community. Awards were given to Neha Sobti, A3N Media, and Outland Media. Awards of Appreciation were presented to Dr. Parag Doshi, Dinesh and Pinky Thakkar, Anu and Bharat Malhotra, Harry Mohan, Chintan Patel, Shrujal Patel, Dr. Asha and Dr. Anil Oroskar, and Dr. Vishwabharathy Ganesan.
A special Service Award was presented to FIA Secretary General Nilabh Dubey for his contributions in all the events.
Payel Roy Ganguly and her group performed a patriotic song, followed by a vibrant dance performance by Neha Sobti’s troupe. Fal Rana’s group performed during the dinner break.
The evening transitioned a stirring Ghazal program, a musical journey of timeless melodies performed by Quincy Chett and Payel Roy Ganguly, accompanied by talented musicians.
Some of the standout ghazals included; Kisi Nazar Ko Tera Intezar Aaj Bhi Hai, Jhuki Jhuki Si Nazar, Tujhse Naraz Nahin Zindagi, Koi Faryad, Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho, Tu Hi Re, and Bol Na Halke Halke,
The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by FIA’s Joint Secretary Falguni Sukhadia, who acknowledged the tireless efforts of the volunteers, the generous sponsors, and the support of the Advisory Board.
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