Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago celebrates Cheti Chand, the Sindhi New Year with Rituals and Traditional Fervor

Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: On Sunday, April 7, 2024, the Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago (SAMC) hosted a joyous celebration of Cheti Chand, the Sindhi New Year, at the elegant Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove. The event was a resounding success, drawing attendees of all ages and featuring a delightful blend of cultural performances, prayers, and delectable Sindhi cuisine. The Cheti Chand festival was graced by several dignitaries, including Mr. Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India in Chicago, who served as the chief guest, along with prominent community figures such as mayor of Oakbrook Larry Herman, mayor of Schaumberg Tom Dailly, 3 times mayor of oakbrook Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, and Aurora Alderwomen Shewta Baid. All the guests of honor were welcomed and greeted with Sindhi Topi, Scarf and Dhol upon their arrival. The festivities commence with traditional Behrana and Prasad, followed by a lively Jalsa experience. Attendees participated in heartfelt prayers and paid homage to Jhulelal, the Sindhi deity, led by Dr. Gita Rupani and Manju Dadlani. Henna Ballaney and Ria Matta took the stage, captivating the audience for the entire cultural program. Namish Nagdev, a talented 9-year-old, eloquently conveyed the importance of Cheti Chand, emphasizing acceptance, unity, […]

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T. S. Nandakumar’s Book, “Intricacies of Mridangam” Released

This book describes end to end playing techniques of Mridangam and elab T. S. Nandakumar’s Book, “Intricacies of Mridangam” Released This book describes end to end playing techniques of Mridangam and elaborates unique concepts in Music “My style in Carnatic Music, especially playing Mridangam, an ancient South Indian classical percussive instrument is very unique,” says T. Shankaranarayanan Nandakumar, while describing the objective of writing of his new book, “Intricacies of Mridangam”  is being released in hardcover both Barnes and Nobles and Amazon. “I want to pass on this rich knowledge and skills that I have received from my Masters to the new generation, who are often not familiar with the nuances of this ancient musical instrument.” World renowned for his mastery of the Mridangam and with expertise in various other percussion instruments, including konnakol (vocal percussion), thavil, ghatam, kanjira, and morsing, Nandakumar is a well-known south Indian music artist, showcasing his versatility in Carnatic music and has devoted his entire life to the cause of popularizing Indian classical music around the world. Nandakumar developed a string interest in music at a very young age. Throughout his professional career, he has accompanied many well-known names in Carnatic music and continues to […]

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It is Time to Go Back, Only to Move Forward in Time

Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: Prayagraj Hule is a renowned Vedantic Scholar. He recently concluded a 5-dayseries on self-help at the International University of Vedic Wellness in Streamwood, IL. His talks resonated with people across Chicago land, leaving a profound impact onthe youth and individuals of diverse backgrounds. This universal message transcended race and religion, offering knowledge that spoke to the shared human experience. In collaboration with the University, Prayagraj will offer youth and adult retreats in 2024 as well as online sessions throughout the year. For more information contact Aparna Kulkarni 847-306-7616 or AparnaK@umasinc.com. Unearthing Human Nature Vedanta is a science which deals with human beings. An encyclopedia which has the compilation of subtlest thoughts related to human relationship with the Transcendental Self. Rendered by, several enlightened sages of India. These great people dedicated their lives thousands of years ago to reflect upon the mystery of human origin, purpose of living and constitution of human inner nature. The effort of such crystalline contemplation culminated in the Vedanta philosophy, which decoded the apogee of happiness. Present day humans are disconnected with their roots and live in ignorance about this state of Bliss. The Labyrinth Today, the world over alma maters and […]

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Federation of Indian Associations of Chicago (Est 1980) and Consulate General of India office, Chicago organized an OCI / Passport Camp

Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: FIA, Chicago in partnership with the Consulate General of India Office in Chicago organized an OCI camp at Manav Seva Mandir, Bensenville, Il on Dec 10 th, 2023. The camp was attended by more than 500 people of Indian descent families. The camp had focused mainly on two issues faced by the Indian diaspora – OCI Card and Passport issues. Consul General Hon. Mr. Somnath Ghosh was magnanimous enough to extend all the support from his office and more than six consulate staff members manned the inquiry and processing desk to answer and process the paperwork for OCI Cards. The event, aimed at providing comprehensive assistance to the Indian diaspora and OCI cardholders, witnessed enthusiastic participation from the community. The collaborative efforts between the Federation of Indian Associations and the Consulate General Chicago Office once more highlighted the commitment to fostering strong ties and enhancing support for the Indian community abroad. Unprecedented Interest: The overwhelming response from the community, as evidenced by more than 1000 telephonic phone inquiries, showcases the high demand for OCI services and assistance. Community Engagement: The Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago initiative, and full support from the Chicago Consulate Office, […]

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Senior Friendship Group Chicago Hosts a Dazzling Diwali Celebration

Experience of Culture, Spirituality, and Community Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: The Senior Friendship Group Chicago marked the joyous occasion of Diwali with a vibrant celebration on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at Golf Maine Park District, 8800 W Kathy Ln, Niles, IL . The festivities, which spanned from 9 am to 4 pm, brought together members and guests for a day filled with cultural delights. The event commenced with a delightful breakfast featuring an array of Diwali delicacies, including Ghooghra, Cholafli Mathiya Farsi, Puri Chawanan, tea, and coffee. The beautifully adorned venue, embellished with exquisite depictions of Ganapatidada and Lakshmi Mata, was a testament to the meticulous efforts of Meghna D Vora, who orchestrated the enchanting decor. President Harshadbhai Parekh extended heartfelt Diwali and New Year wishes to all attendees, outlining the day’s program. A collective Aarti of Ganapati Dada and Lakshmi Mata, performed by both members and guests, set a spiritual tone. Smita Parekh presented prayers of Sarva Dharma and Mayurashtakam, adding a divine touch to the celebration. In a special segment, November birthdays were celebrated, including the festivities for Sunilbhai Shah. The entertainment quotient soared as Jeetendraji, Amitbhai, Pratibhaji, and Ritaben Shah showcased their musical talents, creating […]

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Humble tribute to Srila Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupad ji,

भगवान श्रीकृष्ण के अनन्य उपासक, ‘श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता’ के ज्ञान को आधुनिक विश्व की चेतना से जोड़ने वाले मनीषी, इस्कॉन के संस्थापक श्रील भक्तिवेदांत स्वामी प्रभुपाद जी की जयंती पर उन्हें विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि! Humble tribute to Srila Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupad ji, Manishi, who connects the knowledge of ‘Shrimad Bhagwadgeeta’ to the modern world consciousness of ISKCON, founder of ISKCon! https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=948489639967858&set=a.549357189881107

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Anuttama Dasa, the Global Director of Communications for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, “Urged world leaders to take responsibility to bring the change” at Parliament of the World’s Religions.

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: Chicago hosted the largest gathering of the Parliament of the World’s Religions at the McCormick Place Lakeside Center, 2301 S King Dr, Chicago, IL with a representation of 212 world religions and 95 countries. The convention was from Monday to Friday, August 14 to 18, 2023 drew a lot of religious leaders who discussed social issues that plague the planet. The convention has its historic roots tied to Chicago where it began in 1893 and then again reconvened in 1993. The parliament aims at bringing the world’s religious and spiritual communities to create a better world. The convention creates a unique platform for the most inclusive interfaith dialogue and draws the wisdom and richness of traditions to address world problems. This year’s theme was “A Call to Conscience: Defending Freedom and Human Rights” and the program began with a colorful parade of faiths. Anuttama Dasa, the global director of communications for the International society for Krishna consciousness said, “The world Parliament of religions is a wonderful event because it gives a chance for people of all different religious persuasions, spirituality’s, different countries, different traditions to come together and learn from each other.” He also said, “A […]

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The message of Interfaith Actions

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: The message resonates with clarity and conviction: We must join hands, unite, and safeguard the religious rights of all faiths. The Parliament of World Religions (PoWR) has traversed a remarkable journey since 1893. The 1893 Parliament of the World’s Religions brought together 400 men and women, representing 41 diverse religious traditions. It was during this momentous gathering that Catholicism and Judaism gained recognition as significant American religions, and the luminous traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism were unveiled to the Western world. In the contemporary landscape, where the specters of religious fanaticism and state-sanctioned alienation loom large, the initial tableau of the plenary challenges our reality. The camaraderie among individuals from Mexico, China, and India on the dais extends a warm invitation to stakeholders of faith, beckoning them towards a realm of peace, harmony, and genuine discourse on pressing matters. Chicago’s atmosphere was electric, and Mayor Brandon Johnson astutely proclaimed, “In this moment, seeking refuge solely within scriptures and holy texts falls short; it is essential to exhibit the most magnificent creation and power of humanity – the act of love.” PoWR 2023 resounded as a summons to conscience. The central theme was the defense of […]

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The Hare Krishna’s bring 5000 year old tradition to Bud Billiken parade

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: The Bud Billiken parade is the largest Afro-American parade and the second largest parade in America next to the Rose parade. It is celebrated to honor black history and also inspire the youth to begin the next school year. Billiken is a guardian angel, a patron saint of children in Chinese mythology. The parade was initiated by Robert S. Abbott who is known as the father of black journalism. This year marked the 94th celebration of this parade. The Bud Billiken Parade is more than a procession of bands and floats marching down King Drive, it’s a commemoration of our past and a celebration of our future. Every summer since 1929, “The Bud” has united African-Americans throughout the city of Chicago in music, dance, food, and laughter. It’s one of the only spaces where we can openly and emphatically praise the historic roots that plant us into the South Side of Chicago. This year parade was on Saturday August 12, 2023 at   E 35th St & Martin Luther King Jr Drive, Chicago, IL 60653 Throngs of people flocked together as the floats paraded down Martin Luther King Jr. drive. The parade traditionally begins in […]

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