Uttarakhand Samaj of Greater Chicago Hosts Its Traditional, Colorful, Musical Baithaki Holi !

Author: By Richa Chand  Chicago, IL, March 15, 2022 – USOGC (Uttarakhand Samaj of Greater Chicago), a 501c3 status charitable organization, hosted Kumaoni style Baithaki Holi on March 12th 2022, 12pm to 4pm at Hoffman Estates, IL, with full josh and fervor with Uttarakhandi family & friends. In Uttarakhand, there’s a unique tradition to celebrate Holi, in the Kumaon region and now the entire state has adopted this tradition of Baithaki Holi (बैठकी होली), (literally Sitting Holi), which is a form of musical gathering starting from the day of Basant Panchmi held all across Kumaon till the Dulhendi (or the last full moon day of the lunar month Phalguna). It was a  bright and beautiful day, and guests came from near and far to celebrate Holi together, dressed in their traditional pahari attire. The ladies were seen wearing ethnic clothing in white and red traditional Holi colors and men in Pahadi kurtas and topis. Beautiful colorful Holi decorations adorned the walls of the Banquet Hall. The guests were greeted and welcomed with a Holi Teeka and splash of colors. In any Baithak, gutka, raita and chai are a must, and so keeping up with the Pahadi traditional ‘Gutka’ dish (made […]

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    Press Release

Restoration of Long Duration (10 years) Regular (Paper) Tourist Visas   Consulate General of India      Chicago …     Press Release Restoration of Long Duration (10 years) Regular (Paper) Tourist Visas           The Government of India has decided to restore old valid long duration (10 years) regular (paper) tourist visas for the nationals of USA with immediate effect. Fresh issue of regular (paper) long-duration (10 years) tourist visas has also been restored for US nationals. In addition, e-Tourist visas under the three options (one month, one year and five years), which remained suspended since March 2020, shall stand restored. Applications for fresh e-tourist visas for eligible nationalities can also be made at the Indian E-Visa Portal [https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html] The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (one month stay only) on gratis basis will also continue. Foreign nationals on tourist/e-tourist visas would be permitted to enter India only through designated Sea Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) or Airport ICPs  by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission or ‘air bubble’ scheme or by any flights as allowed by Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation. In no case, the foreign nationals will be allowed to enter through land border or riverine routes on Tourist visa/E-Tourist […]

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B.A.P.S Volunteers From Robbinsville, New Jersey
Help Refugees in Ukraine

REZSZOW, Poland — As a devastating humanitarian crisis unfolds in Ukraine, hundreds of thousands are fleeing the warzone seeking refuge in neighboring countries. This has included thousands of Indian nationals, mainly students, who have been left stranded amid the conflict.  Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally called BAPS to assist the government’s efforts for the safe passage of Indian nationals from Ukraine. Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami reassured the Prime Minister: “We have also been instructed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj to mobilise BAPS volunteers.” Volunteers from the USA, UK, Ireland, France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria and Poland swiftly sprang into action to support the emergency relief efforts on the ground. This has included setting up a mobile field kitchen in the south-eastern Polish city of Rzeszów, which has begun feeding around 1,000 hot vegetarian meals daily to refugees of all faiths and nationalities. BAPS is also arranging accommodation facilities and coordinating medical assistance and is working closely with the Indian government and local partners. Volunteers travelled from Robbinsville, NJ to Rezszow, Poland and to Budomierz, Poland, on the Ukrainian border to help distribute humanitarian supplies to and facilitate the transport of international students and others fleeing Ukraine. Darshan Patel, an attorney […]

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International Women’s Day Celebration

Ms. Surabhi Kumar, spouse of the Consul General Amit Kumar, was the Guest of Honour at the special cultural event with the theme “Break the Bias” organised by Mandi Theater to celebrate the International Women’s Day and Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. Ms. Surabhi Kumar shared her thoughts on the issue of women empowerment and equality. Ms. Kumar also handed over commendation certificates to select artists.  Consul General Kumar also addressed the gathering, inter alia, paying tribute to Pandit Birju Maharaj who had notably blurred the role of gender in Kathak performances – a documentary on him was screened at the event. A vibrant cultural programme was also organised on the occasion.

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Maneesh Media along with International University of Vedic Wellness showcased a remarkable Book Launch & Women’s Day Celebration

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: Maneesh Media along with International University of Vedic Wellness unveiled a spectacular event to commemorate the International Women’s Day celebration and the launch of Maneesh Media’s new book, “India Calling 2022” on March 8th, 2022 at the Marriot in Hoffman Estates, IL. India Calling 2022 is a new book celebrating India’s Prime Minister, Modiji’s mother Heeraben Modi who is 102 years of age! This book also depicts the 113 magnificent foreign trips of the Indian Prime Minister Modiji and the outcome of those trips during his leadership The International Women’s Day is celebrated across the world to honor the remarkable hard work and achievements of women in every field. This extraordinary event also acknowledged women’s empowerment by honoring the significant efforts of women to make the world a better place to live in. A life of dignity is the birthright of every woman. Women’s empowerment is key to advancing the development of every country. Empowered women contribute to the health and productivity of whole families and communities and improved prospects for the next generation. Dr. Mrs. Santosh Kulshrestha Kumar – Founding Executive Director, of Metropolitan Asian Family Services, Universal Metro Asian Services, and International University […]

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TAGC Women’s Day attracts hundreds of attendees with a variety of activities and fashion competition

Asian Media USA © Chicago: Telugu Association of Greater Chicago (TAGC) the first Telugu organization in the USA, celebrated Women’s Day on March 6th,2022 at Monty’s Elegant banquets in Bensenville, IL. TAGC is devoted to the awareness and promotion of Telugu Heritage and Culture in the Midwest region headquartered in Chicago, The association was originally founded in 1971 and it  recently completed its golden jubilee celebration and entered into its 51st year. Over 350 women of Indian origin participated in this women’s day event. Program started with a devotional song by Singer Ramya and lighting the lamp by Uma Avadhuta, President of TAGC 2022, Women’s Day Chairs Sirisha Madduri, Archana Podduturi and Co chairs Ramya Nagulavancha, Ramya Kapila and Deepa Gudipally. All the other women’s Bod’s Vinitha Podduturi, Manasa Lattupalli, Neelima Cheikicharla, Prasanna Kandukuri and Madhavi Konakalla were also present. This year’s theme was Retro Style where all the ladies came out in their best retro looks. All the ladies were excited to show off their beautiful outfits and style. Anchor Sahithya Vinjamuri was an addition to enthusiasm in ladies. Speaker Deepthi Suri provided very valuable information and great insight on the benefits of Ayurveda in our daily lives. Several fun filled activities […]

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Hindi cultural and literary programme Sandarshika

As part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Consulate General of India, Chicago and the Hindi Coordination Committee (HCC), Chicago, jointly organized a Hindi cultural and literary programme Sandarshika on 5 March 2022 at Consulate premises.  Hindi academics and diaspora with interest in Hindi from Chicago, neighbouring areas and a few other states of US Midwest attended this event. The program was also live streamed through the Facebook page and the YouTube channel of the Consulate.           Consul General Amit Kumar delivered the inaugural remarks at the event.  Dr. Mithilesh Mishra from University Illinois Urbana Champaign (UIUC), Dr. Rakesh Kumar, President of International Hindi Association (IHA)-Indiana Chapter, USA, and Mr. Rakesh Malhotra, HCC Chief Coordinator also joined the event.           Consul General, in his remarks, provided a brief overview on Consulate’s activities in context of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. He said that HCC has consistently been working since 2019 to bring together Hindi volunteers, academicians and organization on a single platform and has thus enabled strengthening promotion of Hindi language across the US Midwest.  He appreciated the important contribution of International Hindi Association (IHA)-Indiana Chapter, Hindi Club of Illinois and the organizations like Hindi Gurukul, Aurora, Hindi USA-St. Louis […]

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Star-studded, Action-packed Dr. VGP 11th Annual Congressional Global Community Awards Gala leaves everyone mesmerized

SEWA International USA Awarded organization of the year 2021 at gala Congressman Danny K. Davis, the Anchor of Dr. VGP 11th Annual Congressional Global Community Awards Gala stressed the importance of Showcasing the Community heroes and Achievers from Multi-Ethnic communities on Saturday, February 19 Evening at Yellow Box, Naperville. Over 960 persons were in attendance at the Star-Studded Dr. VGP’s Annual Congressional Gala which was watched by many viewers live-streamed across the world. Hosted by AMEC-American Multi-Ethnic Coalition, a grassroot Bi-Partisan Organization celebrating 38 Ethnic Communities across America. Dr. VGP Congressional Awards Gala was headlined by three U.S. Congressman Danny K. Davis, Raja Krishnamoorthy & Bill Foster, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller, Chicago Alderman Pat Dowell & Chris Taliaferro, Aurora Alderman Swetha Baid, Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia, Cook County Health CEO Israel Rocha Jr., Indian Prairie School District 204 Superintendent Dr. Adrian Talley among others. Prominent Awardees included 7-year-old Aaryan Khot, Judy Wang, WGN  TV Anchor, Chicago Housing Authority Commissioner Dr. Mildred C. Harris, Dr. Paramjit Chopra, CEO, MIMIT, Eddi Ni, CEO Windfall Group, Jason Lam of President Chinese American Development Association, Donald Dew, President, Habilitative Systems Inc., Dr. Santosh Kumar, Founder MAFS […]

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Senior Friendship Group Chicago Celebrates Valentine’s Day with fun and devotion

Senior Friendship Group Chicago celebrated Valentine’s Day on Feb 13th at Honest Restaurant in Niles, IL. The program started with President Harshad Parekh welcoming everybody. Senior Friendship Group President Harshad Parekh gave inaugural remarks and briefed everyone about the group’s past and future activities. He introduces Pinky Thakkar Chairwoman and founder of Senior Friendship Group Chicago. Group member Smita Parekh sang some melodious chants and created a beautiful devotional atmosphere. Everyone looked beautiful dressed ok the colors of love pink and red. Members celebrating their birthday in January and February were congratulated on their special days. Some members were also presented with awards for their excellent community service and leadership qualities. Award winning members included Ashwin Majumdar, Suresh Amin, Haribhai Lilabem Thakkar, Pinky Thakkar, Aruna Patel and Dilip Patel. Awards were presented by Arvind Patel. “On this Valentine’s Day, I want to express my love and affection for my caring family and friends. I want to tell my husband Dinesh Thakkar how fortunate I am to have him in my life as my best friend and a wonderful life partner. I want to thank him for the love and support, and I look forward to celebrating our bond together for […]

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SWERA Team Proves Its Mettle Again with Yet Another Historic Event Celebrating Lohri

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: SWERA, an organization changing the lives of socio-economically disadvantaged women, hosted its annual Lohri festival celebrations on Feb 12th,2022 at Atlantis Banquets, in Arlington Heights, IL. The highlights of the event were the beautiful cultural extravaganza put together by the SWERA team led by Jasbir Kaur Mann. Jasbir Kaur, who was one of the anchors at the event as well explained the significance of the Lohri festival and how the new concept of gender equality needs to be promoted and followed all over the world. The festival of Lohri holds great significance as it marks the harvest of the rabi crops and the end of winter days. In Northern India, Lohri is usually celebrated with a bonfire. The lighting of a bonfire during this festival is an old tradition. Ancient people lit the bonfire to welcome the return of longer days. The event was very well anchored by Jasbir kaur mann, nikki Sekhon, Gurmukh Singh Bhullar, Jasbir S Sanghera and Paramvir Kaur. The event started with Shabad Kirtan by the kids of Gurmat School followed by singing and dancing by many artists from all over the Midwest. The event was graced by Mr. Ranjit Singh […]

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Big Suchir Entertainment celebrates musical Valentine’s Day

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: Big Suchir Entertainment Celebrated Valentine’s Day on February 12,2022 at Big Suchir Restaurant and Banquets in Downers Drove, IL The celebration included a beautiful lineup of some of the finest vocalists of Chicagoland. The singers included Avni Sing, Parwez Ekram, Shirley Kalvakota, Alam, Minhaj Siddiqui and sound was provided by Syed Lateef. The event hosts Prachi Jaitly and Niranjan Nathwani thanked all the guests for joining the celebration. The event went into the wee hours with the guests dancing on the romantic numbers sung by the singers. The event also featured a beautiful dance performance by Falguni Rana. Other community leaders who joined the event were Ashok Potdar of Silver Seniors Group, Shailesh Rajput and Nimish Jani. Photographs and Press release by: Asian Media USA Suresh Bodiwala Chairman Asian Media USA Cell: 847-420-4789    E-Mail: bodiwalasuresh@gmail.com Copyrights ©: Asian Media USA No one shall download or otherwise duplicate the graphics, images, press release and written content from the PDF without our express written permission. Likewise, no one shall reuse the aforesaid things, as the same are the intellectual property of the Company, we hereby reserve all rights Disclaimer: Asian Media USA Asian Media USA press releases are event oriented and published after careful review […]

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February is Punjabi Language Month in the State of Illinois

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: In recognition of the contributions of Punjabi speaking residents to the communities of the great state of Illinois, Governor J.B. Pritzker proclaimed the month of February as “Punjabi Language Month” in the great state of Illinois. This is in accordance with the United Nations International Mother Language Day which is a worldwide annual observance held on 21 February approved by U.N.E.S.C.O. to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and to promote preservation and protection of all languages. Punjabi, the 9th most widely spoken language in the world, originated around 7th century in the Punjab region of the undivided India and Pakistan in South Asia and is spoken by more than 113 million people worldwide mainly by the Hindus, Sikhs, Muslim, and Christians with roots from the region. It is recognized as one of the official languages in India, Pakistan, United Kingdom, and Canada. Besides the above-mentioned countries there is a significant presence of Punjabis in Malaysia, East African countries, U.A.E., New Zealand, and Australia. There are more than 750,000 Punjabi speaking Americans and more than fifty thousand Punjabi speaking Illinoisans. “Several activities and events to celebrate the Punjabi Language Month have been planned for the Metro Chicago area. […]

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The Consulate General of India, Chicago celebrated

the 73rd Republic Day of India The Consulate General of India, Chicago celebrated the 73rd Republic Day of India on Wednesday, 26 January 2022.   In view of COVID-19, the event was held in hybrid format with members of the Indian American community and Friends of India joining the event physically.  Many more joined the event virtually. The event started with Consul General Amit Kumar, unfurling the National Flag, followed by the singing of the National Anthem of India. The Consul General read out the Address of the Hon’ble President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind and spoke on the India-US strategic partnership and the valuable contributions of the Indian diaspora. A cultural programme was organized. This included singing by Hindustani classical vocalist Ashwin Rode accompanied by Tabla Player Akash Dixit; dance performances by students of Kalapadma Dance Academy and Tarana Dance Academy; and rendition of patriotic songs by Ms. Shweta Pandya, a vocalist from Michigan and her students.  The Consulate had also sought submission of paintings drawn by children to celebrate this occasion.  These wonderful paintings were displayed during the event and are being shared on the Consulate’s social media platforms. The programme was live streamed through Consulate’s Facebook page […]

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Federation of Indian Associations Chicago IL Pays Glowing Tribute to FIA Director Mir Ali

Federation of Indian Associations [FIA] Chicago IL, paid glowing tributes to its team member Mir Ali to honor his life and his contributions and hosted a virtual event, ‘FIA Tribute to Director Mir Ali’ via zoom, on Jan 08, 2022 at 2:00 PM (CT) from Schaumburg IL. Mr Mir Ali had suffered a massive and fatal heart attack, on Jan 07, 2022 at 6:30am at his residence where he passed away. This condolences ceremony was presided by FIA Chairman Sunil Shah and President Hitesh Gandhi, Founding Member Neil Khot and anchored & moderated by Gen Secretary Richa Chand. This event was also supported by the entire Team FIA, Advisory Board Members, Friends & Supporters of FIA:   AAEIO, Mall of India, Outland-media and Asian Media USA. The event was very well attended by Team FIA members, several leaders, thinkers, artists and friends and family. And originally scheduled to be just one hour long, but it took 3 hrs to complete, since all present at the event wanted to share their grief and sorrow….and such is the greatness of this noble human being. The event started with the Shanti Mantras and Prayers offered by Anu Malhotra and opening condolences speeches by Sunil […]

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International Indian Icon (3iii) A global platform

for Indian talent across the globe The Grand Finale of 3iii (Three Eye) 2021 International Indian Icon (3iii) Season-V resulted in successful completion of 1st Phase of 5 seasons. The awards ceremony of the Grand Finale was hosted by Sharan Walia, CEO of Gee Vision Inc. All judges and participants, including legendary music director and Grandmaster Jatin Pandit (DDLJ, KKG, KKHH, Fanah etc.), lyricist and music director Arko Mukherjee, Slumdog Millionaire Jai Ho Choreographer Longinus Fernandes and Ms. India 2013, International celebrity anchor and 3iii Fashion Ambassador Simran Ahuja were present here, along with 148 participants along with their families from all over the world approximately 24 countries.    Winners were picked after 3 days of rigorous semi-final and finale competitions (28th to 30th December 2021) 1st and 2nd runner-ups, along with judges’ choices in different categories for Juniors and Seniors were also declared here. The winners are as follows: Abnash Kaur from San Francisco, California USA was declared 5th INTERNATIONAL INDIAN ICON of 3iii 2021 Season-V in singing Senior category. Uttara Vaidya from Miami, Florida USA got the title for Dancing senior and tied with Ankur Sharma for Fashion Senior Hasini Namala grabbed the Fashion Junior title Mrunal Behere-Langote from […]

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Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) unveils ambitious roadmap to undertake community-centric initiatives while celebrating its growth trajectory

Chicago, IL: Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) hosted a welcome reception to unveil its comprehensive roadmap for 2022 & beyond replete with meaningful events that seeks to compliment and celebrate a multitude of community-centric program initiatives with emphasis on India’s festivals, community outreach, charitable causes, social, cultural, business, medical and other community- oriented events including  addressing the emerging pandemic challenges at its annual board meeting held on Sunday, November 28, 2021 at the Big Suchir Banquets in Westmont, IL. The meeting was attended by the entire FIA team as a well as the advisory board members. This year FIA Chicago unanimously elected its new leader Hitesh Gandhi and the new board. The event was presided by Founding Members Sunil Shah, Onkar Sangha, Neil Khot, Rita Singh, Mukesh Shah, Dhitu Bhagwakar and Current President Kamal Patel. Founder President Sunil Shah took the stage and outlined the successes behind the year 2021, listing the events conducted by the FIA and its team. He thanked the outgoing team for its hard work in putting together and conducting various India centric and Charitable events during the year. He also took the opportunity to welcome new members to team FIA. In a major announcement he declared that FIA will […]

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The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Association of Greater Chicago

Celebrates Diwali traditional way Chicago IL: The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Association of Greater Chicago held a function for the annual day and Diwali celebration on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at the Ashyana Banquet Hall in Downers Grove, IL. Last year, Diwali was celebrated with a variety of virtual cultural programs because of the Covid pandemic, but this year, it was celebrated in person with a very impressive gathering and high-quality cultural programs highlighting the rich culture of India. Diwali or Deepavali, means deep (light) and avali (rows). It is an inner illumination from ignorance to knowledge; good defeats evil and bring happiness in family and community. The event started with a Diya lighting ceremony by executive committee and board of trustees members led by Dr. Subhash Pandey and Chief Guest, Mr. PK Mishra, and was followed by a beautiful sitar instrumental presentation of bhajan medley by Mr. Paneesh Rao. The program was organized and coordinated by Mr. Sunish Mittal and Mr. Raj Kumar Upadhyay, treasurer and president of the UP Association, respectively. Mr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, president of the organization, welcomed the audience on this occasion. Dr. Subhash Pandey, Chairman Board of Trustees of the UP Association, also welcomed the audiences and […]

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Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago Celebrates Diwali

Chicago IL: Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago, one of the oldest organizations in Chicagoland, celebrated its Annual Diwali celebration on October 30th at Ashton Place, Willowbrook, IL. The celebration started with Lamp Lighting and the Mahalaxmi Aarti followed by a cultural program by kids of all ages. The event also featured a media briefing by the current President Subhash Balani and other board members. Balani explained how the association was formed over 6 decades ago with the aim of creating a platform for the upcoming generations. He talked about the annual activities that the association organizes to celebrate Sindhi Culture.   Another board member Nand Balani elaborated on the initiative called, Alliance of Global Sindhi Association that connects Sindhis all over to the world. The three aims of the alliance focus on matrimonial services, romanized script for sindhi language, and a global sindhi directory. Geeta Rupani, past president and current executive board member who has been involved with the association for over four decades mentioned how the organization has been working hard to promote Sindhi culture, music, language and history. Sunder Tekchandani stressed on the importance of involving more and more members, especially the younger generation to take these initiatives forward […]

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BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Bartlett, IL

Chicago IL: The multi-faith, multi-day celebration of Diwali took place at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett, IL concluding on November 4th. The Indian diaspora as well as community members and well-wishers all gathered to celebrate the festival of lights and commemorate the New Year. The Mandir was beautifully decorated with rangoli, diyas, lights, and artwork. An annakut of delicious vegetarian food, delicious treats, and delectable desserts was meticulously arranged by volunteers. Attendees dressed in their colorful and bright traditional Indian attire. The aura and atmosphere of the Mandir was warm and festive. The celebrations offered attendees an opportunity for darshan of the annakut and divine murtis of God while arti and thaal were sung throughout the day. Visitors were also inspired through an exhibition on with informational posters and decorations describing different traditions and stories behind the multi-day festival. In expressing the warmth and goodwill of Diwali, prasad in the form of sweets was distributed to all those joining in the celebrations. The festivities were open to all members of the local community. A parent visiting the temple with their young family commented that the exhibition was an educational experience for young children and adults who want to learn about Diwali.  Samir Patel of South Barrington expressed “I think it’s important for parents to […]

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Tribute to COVID 19 frontline workers

by Indian American Medical Association (IL) Dr. Suneela Harsoor passed on the gavel to incoming President Dr. Suresh Reddy Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: Indian American Medical Association (IL), on November 13th, 2021 celebrated its 41st annual business meeting and gala at Ashton place, Willow brook, Illinois. Over 250 people attended the banquet to witness and celebrate the success of IAMA during this challenging year. At the gala, Chief guest Dr Chundi Vishnu, chair of COVID task force, Chicago Medical society and Keynote speaker Dyan Elliot, The Peter B. Ritzma Professor of the Humanities, Northwestern University spoke about current and historical perspectives of pandemics. Event was attended by several dignitaries including Consul General Amit Kumar, Congressman Raja Krishna Murthy, Dr Barath Barai, Dr. Ranga Reddy, Dr Srinivas Reddy, Dr Sukanya Reddy, Dr Satish Kathula and Dr Virendra Bisla. Dr Suneela Harsoor, the current president of IAMA gave a heartfelt tribute to frontline workers who selflessly served during the pandemic. She and her team have served the community here in US and in India by raising funds, creating health awareness, participating in Vaccination drives and Teleconsultations. Dr Harsoor was given standing ovation for rejuvenating this prestigious organization, bringing back its […]

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