Category: Newspaper Links

Skokie, IL: The Indian community of Niles Township celebrated India Republic Day through the afternoon of February 9, 2013 at Fairview School District 72, 7040 Laramie Ave Skokie, IL with music and dance performances, interspersed with remarks by the organizers and various guests. The initiative and inspiration behind this annual celebration since its inception has been Usha Kamaria. Chief Guest was Skokie Mayor George van Dusen. People came even from far suburbs outside Niles Township. Among the other dignitaries present, including elected and non-elected officials, were the director of Skokie public library Carolyn Anthony, Illinois State Rep. Daniel Biss, director of drug compliance Dr. Yash Amin, and prominent community leaders such as Iftekar Shareef, Naren Patel, Sunil Shah, Tushar Chotalia, and Skokie Park District superintendent Mike Reid. The program began with the auspicious lamp lighting ceremony performed by Rohit Joshi, accompanied by several dignitaries. DJ Chawla led the singing of the American and Indian national anthems, which preceded the opening remarks by Santosh Varghese. Usha Kamaria then took the podium to speak about Republic Day followed by Mayor Van Dusen. His wife Susan Van Dusen spoke subsequently about the annual “Coming Together in Skokie” festival that celebrates in turn one […]

Chicago IL: Ahimsa is widely understood as ‘not harming or hurting others.’ But is this its complete meaning? Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshbhai offers an invaluable insight into the true essence of ahimsa. Bhagwan Mahavira expounded ahimsa as the ultimate dharma. One may question why a negative word ahimsa meaning non-violence was used. Should religion not denote something positive? Ahimsa – the State of Love In truth, though non-violence sounds negative, it is an extremely positive state. It is the state of absolute and complete love – and what can be more positive than love itself? It is only because we are familiar with the state of violence, that this term has been used. It is to ease our transition from the known state of violence to the unknown state of love that the term non-violence has been used. In order to obliterate darkness; the presence of light is necessary. So also, the darkness of violence is dispelled only in the positive light of love. Having understood that ahimsa means love, one may further ask why love has not been called the ultimate dharma; why the word ahimsa has been used. Again, the Enlightened Ones explain that there is an important reason […]

Chicago IL: As the clock struck 12 on the midnight of Dec. 31st, the devotees of Hari Om Mandir welcomed the New Year with dhol, shankhs and Ram Dhun in melodious voice of Asha Khanna ji. Asha ji joined the congregation around 11pm in reading Ramayan. As the clock inched towards midnight the crowds grew in numbers and so did the excitement of the crowd. The dropping temperatures didn’t deter the people to come in and join in singing the Ram Dhun and at midnight the hall was filled with shankh and by Priest Dinesh ji and one of the founder members of the society Ram Verma ji. Subhash Sharma ji along with the bhajan Mandli chanted Ram Dhun to usher in the New Year As everyone bid adieu to 2012 they welcomed the New Year by embracing and wishing each other, offering sweets and praying for the well being of one and all. Hari Om Mandir every year welcomes the new year with Akhand Ramayan Path which starts on Dec 31st and takes 24 hours and ends on Jan 1st. This year was also not different. Prabhu ka Bhandara is open for 4 hours and people come and have […]

Chicago, IL: From the Mahatma to Modi, Gujarat has seen it all. One of India’s fastest growing economies, Gujarat plays an integral part in the very existence of India. Every Gujarati who lives in the Land of Liberty thinks and feel proud about his or her home state. Vishwa Gujarati Samaj USA (VGS USA) Board of Directors & President Naren Patel Celebrated Diwali on Sunday, December 16, 2012 at India House Banquet, 1500 Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, IL. The event was also attended by VGS members, [the event was complementary to the paid members] invited guests, friends and family. The extravagant celebration began at 5 pm. The celebration was held with much pomp and pleasure of cultural program and Bollywood music. Attendance was house full. Coordinated by Naren Patel, Vishwa Gujarati Samaj USA President, the moment was also precious as two young entrepreneurs Neal and Raj Patel who are known for their sharp business acumen, a distant vision, sound capital and an ability to bounce back, have actively contributed much for the success of program. Though born and grown in United States , these young honchos are more Indian, who believe in upholding Indian culture and traditions. Beena Patel (Associate Clerk, […]

The holiday season, the time of year for giving has always been held dear by Medstar Laboratory, Inc. Even in these tough economic times, when smaller companies are struggling to survive, Medstar looks to partner up with different communities in which they do business and try to shine a light on the holiday of some of the families who reside in them. Medstar Laboratory believes in giving back to the community. Each year they pick a variety of Non Profit Organizations and staff members of Medstar including Owner Naren Patel and Vice-Presidents Neal and Raj Patel attend these events every year. Medstar Laboratory’s CEO, Mr. Naren Patel said that he loves to see the sparkle in children’s eyes and excitement when they receive a gift with their name on it. This year Medstar Laboratory partnered with Father Pflager and St. Sabina Church in Englewood, Mayor Larry Dominick and the Town of Cicero and Dr. Aliaga in the Little Village neighborhood. St. Sabina Church and Father Pflager, who is known for helping reduce the violence in the Englewood neighborhood, have an annual Christmas dinner in which they celebrate with the youth, those they help stay off the streets, and their families. […]

Voter Volunteers Elect Democratic Candidates & Indo-American Democratic Organization Celebrates Victory of President Obama, OFA volunteer and Ibraheem Khan Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: President Obama has once again been re-elected! Also, many of our hard-working politicians in Illinois have also been voted into office. Some of these dedicated people include: Congresswomen Jan Schakowsky, Congress Rep. Brad Schneider, Congressman Danny Davis, Alderman Debra Silverstein, Congress Rep. Lou Lang, Alderman Joe Moore, Congress woman Tammy Duckworth and Senator Ira Silverstein. These politicians have been working tirelessly for their people and are representing the people to the best of their abilities, and we graciously thank them for their honest work. So to congratulate these people, there were three celebrations held commemorating the victory of our Democratic politicians! The Pakistani-Indian community has been working hard to organize these parties and support our Democratic politicians. These are short summaries of what had taken place at the three celebrations. October 30, 2012, is the date of the first of these marvelous parties, which all had the purpose of congratulating our dedicated Democratic politicians, and ultimately our loyal and enthusiastic president, President Obama. This party had taken place at Sahara Restaurant, Schaumburg, IL . 100 […]

Chicago, IL: From the Mahatma to Modi, Gujarat has seen it all. One of India’s fastest growing economies, Gujarat plays an integral part in the very existence of India. Every Gujarati who lives in the Land of Liberty thinks and feel proud about his or her home state. Vishwa Gujarati Samaj USA (VGS USA) Board of Directors & President Naren Patel Celebrated Diwali on Sunday, December 16, 2012 at India House Banquet, 1500 Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, IL. The event was also attended by VGS members, [the event was complementary to the paid members] invited guests, friends and family. The extravagant celebration began at 5 pm. The celebration was held with much pomp and pleasure of cultural program and Bollywood music. Attendance was house full. Coordinated by Naren Patel, Vishwa Gujarati Samaj USA President, the moment was also precious as two young entrepreneurs Neal and Raj Patel who are known for their sharp business acumen, a distant vision, sound capital and an ability to bounce back, have actively contributed much for the success of program. Though born and grown in United States , these young honchos are more Indian, who believe in upholding Indian culture and traditions. Beena Patel (Associate Clerk, […]

Hoffman Estates, IL: Shri Jalaram Mandir located at 425, Illinois Blvd , Hoffman Estates , IL , celebrated 3rd Volunteer Appreciation Day with Bollywood music on Saturday, December 15, 2012 at 6:00 pm. A sentimental evening “Sur Sandhya” was performed by “Suranjali” in filmy style with old and new songs, which made the whole atmosphere joyful. More than 225 volunteers enjoyed the special evening. Shree Jalaram Mandir was inaugurated on the March 8th, 2008. It was a dream of many devotees and followers of Jalaram Bapa to establish Jalaram Mandir. With a determination to realize that dream, Jalaram Organization was established in December 2006. With the help of Generous Donations from many Donors and Volunteers $1.25 Million Dollars worth property was purchased. Saturday, December 15, 2012, was a day to appreciate every single person who had devoted their time towards the Mandir’s progress. In honor of such commitment, Jalaram Mandir Board decided to have a beautiful way to say thanks to all the volunteers with a Musical night and splendid dinner. At present, Mandir has team of approximately 235 volunteers, who are involved in various activities and perform duties with all their heart. Prior to Musical program, delicious Gujarati dinner […]

Chicago, IL: Harish Bhatt, President of AIPHA presented the unique amalgamation of celebration, business and entertainment at the Association of Indian Pharmacists in America’s (AIPhA) 25th Annual Diwali Gala on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at the Meadows Club. At the gala, AIPhA also took the opportunity to discuss the progress and outlook of the pivotal group to the 500 guests in attendance. This organization has been around over 25 years, and Harish Bhatt has proven to be one of it’s great communicators and leaders. The gala boasted the largest crowd that I have ever seen for this organization, and this is due to his leadership and communication with the members. This event is a cause for everyone to get together to learn what is going in the pharmaceutical industry and to enjoy a memorable show. Similar sentiments were echoed by first time attendee and pharmacy student from Chicago State University, Aarti Shah, who said, “This is a great event and we, the students are very happy to be invited to help celebrate Diwali and contribute to AIPhA.” The evening started with a social hour featuring some tasty appetizers and premium drinks. Masters of Ceremonies for the occasion Pratik Shah and […]

Chicago, IL: On Sunday, November 11, 2012, HDF hosted “Walk in Her Shoes: A Fashion Show Dedicated to Women’s Empowerment” at The Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows, IL. The couture fashion show featured collections by designers HSY, Mina Hassan, Nomi Ansari, Faiza Samee,Sana Safinas, Satya Paul, and Manish Malhotra, presented by Studio Elite. An exquisite stage adorned with crystals and white mums was provided Professional Party Planners. HDF combats extreme poverty by “Helping people help themselves.” Their powerful, Holistic Model is comprehensive and is focused on lasting change in 5 key areas – Education, Health Care, Economic Growth, Social Mobilization and Sustainable Environment. HDF’s goal aligned with Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 3, is to Promote Gender Equality & Empower Women. HDF’s concrete programs empower women to live, learn, earn and lead their communities. “HDF envisions women to participate actively & equitably in all spheres of life, and to play a fulfilling role in the development of their society.” Fakhia Rashid, Executive Director of HDF. HDF’s Chicago Chapter hosted this prestigious event for girls’ education. One of HDF’s most imperative programs is Education & Literacy: Educating women and girls provides the single highest return on investment in the developing world. The […]

Chicago IL: Hi India, Sixgam Patidar Samaj of Chicago presented Dandiya Dhoom with Dandiya Queen Falguni Pathak on Saturday, November 03, 2012 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018. Ticket charges were $20 (Advance and Online) $25 at the Door. The Convention Center was fully crowded with over enthusiastic people of all ages encompassing the whole arena with more than 5000 present. Participants enjoyed clapping, dancing, moving and playing Garbas and Raas in full swing up to 1-30 am, when it was closed on account of time. Falguni Pathak’s name is synonymous with fantastic beats, powerful melodious voice and of course Navratri and Dandiya. Falguni Pathak performed her new list of Gujarati folk tales and hit songs from latest upcoming Bollywood movie releases. With the right blend of her heart-filling compositions to romantic lyrics and melodic voice Falguni Pathak surely enthralled all. The talented and highly energetic, Falguni Pathak is a real diva in making. She can leave you gasping for breath with her high pitched performances, be it her powerful vocal chords or her on-stage charisma. Falguni is an epitome of our Navratri celebrations in Mumbai. She is not only respected in […]

Schaumburg, IL: Gujarati Samaj Chicago organized a Diwali Dinner and Dazzling Bollywood Masti on Saturday, November 10, 2012, at India House Banquet located at 1521, Schaumburg Road, IL Illinois. The event was attended by about 612 guests. The evening started with social hour with tasty appetizers and soft drinks. MC for the occasion Manish Pandya, who kept the crowd attentive and involved for the total length of the program. Diva lighting ceremony was performed by Chief Guest, Mr. Harshit Patel from NY Life and he applauded the organization for celebrating Diwali festival and conveyed his best wishes to all. Addressing the gathering, current President Suryakant Patel wished everyone a Happy Diwali and Happy New Year! He said, “Diwali marks the attainment of moksha or nirvana and to rejoice conquering of evil Ravan by Lord Ram. Let us thank, pray, and celebrate for all the blessings of supreme Bhagavan.” He outlined the objectives of the Samaj by stating “We are glad to be serving the Chicago Metropolitan area for many years. Our goals are to encourage people to explore and learn about rich Gujarati culture. Together let us keep this light lit for life and joy for many years to come.” […]

Rolling Meadows, IL: The Indian American Medical Association of Illinois held its 32nd Annual Meeting and Banquet on November 17th at the classy Meadows Club reflecting on highlights of this past year.Dr. Aruna Vade, President of IAMA thanked her team and members for a successful year in fulfilling the vision and goals of the IAMA such as supporting the Free Clinic, educational and community awareness seminars. The key note speaker for the evening was Dr. Shrinivas Shanbagh, Medical Director of Reliance Group of India. Dr. Shanbagh addressed how health education and emphasis on preventive health care led to increased participation and compliance with preventive measures among employees in his organization. Dr. Malliswari Challapalli, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist said that the successful measures implemented by Dr. Shanbagh could serve as a blue print for all organizations and industries throughout the world. Earlier, the evening began with a cocktail hour, which featured some mouth watering appetizers and top shelf premium bar service by the chefs of the Meadows Club. The Guest of honor Congressman William G Foster spoke to members elaborating the need for reform in immigration policy to recruit and keep talented people in USA. Golden Stethoscope Awards were created by […]

Chicago IL: The Shia Muslims of North America observed Muhharam on Thursday November 22, 2012, at Ramada Inn, 780 North Avenue, Glendale Heights, IL, 60139. This month is a time of mourning for the Holy prophet’s grandson, Imam Hussein. He is a man that stood for righteousness and piety. His sacrifice, believed by the Shia Muslims, is a sacrifice for all of humanity. This is a very auspicious time and is dedicated to Imam Hussein and his brother, Hazrat Abbas. Shi’i Muslims around the world annually dedicate the first ten days, called ‘Ashura, of their new year(and continues through forty days, called Arbayeen) to commemorating a battle that took place nearly 1400 years ago, in 680 A.D., on the tenth of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar. The battle took place between Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, whose name is Husayn, son of Imam ‘Ali and Fatima Zahra, the only daughter of Prophet Muhammad, and the Islamic empire at the time. Many of those living at the time of Husayn looked to him as someone who clearly resembled Prophet Muhammad in his teachings and in the way that he lived his life—more than anyone else alive at that time. In […]

Chicago IL: The Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS) kept up it’s long tradition of participating in the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day Parade held on the day of Thanksgiving, Thursday November 22, 2012 on State Street downtown Chicago, luckily under an unseasonably fair weather sky and thousands watching and cheering in person. This was PCS’s 5th time in the parade highlighting Indian culture. The parade was televised live on WGN TV Channel 9, WGN America, and also streamed live on internet for worldwide viewing from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m, and also rebroadcast at 1 pm to 4 pm on CLTV on the same day where millions watched from home. Celebrating its 79th year, the McDonald’s® Thanksgiving Parade is Chicago’s premier holiday event. PCS was a part of more than 100 spectacular contingents proudly marching the parade route North on State Street from Congress to Randolph Street inspired by a cheering crowd of thousands. “PCS has been participating in this parade since 2005, it gives our Indian community a great exposure in the mainstream, and it shows our commitment to celebrate the American festivals,” said PCS President Baljit Singh Sidhu. “The theme of the PCS decorated float and it’s contingent was […]

Chicago IL: Desi Fest 2012 was presented by Desi Times at Boomers Stadium, located at 1999 Springinsguth Road in Schaumburg. Grand Opening Ceremony commenced at 5:30 pm on Friday, 21 September, 2012. The main event was held from noon to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 22 2012. DesiFest 2012 displayed a beautiful hand painted Mural from India which was specially painted by a famous artist, Aejaz Saiyed from India. Measuring 10ft x 50 ft, it was the World’s largest hand painted mural, symbolizing peace and featured world leaders Mahatma Gandhi, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Martin Luther King Jr. – each a follower of peace and unity who’s ideologies are followed all around the world. The world’s largest mural on canvas was envisioned by event promoter Monty Saived and created by Indian artist Aejaz Saived. DesiFest2012 brought together the beautiful cultures of India and Pakistan, and allowed visitors to experience the distinct cultures of the 2 countries with focus on food, jewelry, clothes, beauty pageants, fireworks and entertainment. The festival was open to the public and attracted a large gathering. Local vendors displayed their merchandise in a fun-filled festival complete with dance performances and other entertainment for the little ones, including […]

Chicago IL: Festivity is in the air as Chicago land is all set to celebrate the Diwali once again. Having considerable Indian presence, mood in Chicago is upbeat Indian community members and the Temple are geared up to celebrate. Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC) celebrated Diwali Gala on Friday, November 10, 2012 at Jain Center, 435 N. Route 59, Bartlett, IL. Purpose and goal of organizing this event was dual, Diwali Celebration and Membership Appreciation Dinner. The auditorium was fully packed with about 600 people This was a ticketed event with VIP and Regular seating passes for $20 and $10 respectively for JSMC Life members. Non-Members paid additional $5. Diwali is a festival of utmost importance in the Indian subcontinent. It is celebrated with exceptional enthusiasm across the country by people of every sect and religion. People light diyas (cotton string wicks inserted in small clay pots filled with oil) to signify victory of good over the evil within an individual. As with other Indian festivals, Diwali signifies many different things to people across the country. While in North India Diwali celebrates Rama’s return to Ayodhya after the defeat of Ravana and his coronation as king, in Gujarat, the […]

Chicago IL: Punjabi folk dance Bhangra teams from Columbia university, George Mason University, Duke university, Washington University, and independent traditional teams from Chicago “Ministry of Bhangra”, and “Ankh-E-Gabroo” from New York competed in the 8th PCS Chicago International Bhangra and Gidha Competition held on Nov. 3, 2012 at Des Plaines Theater in Des Plaines Illinois. Dr. Bhupinder Singh Saini of Pain Management Milwaukee Wisconsin was the chief guest. More than 800 attended this colorful high energy performing arts show punctuated with hilarious comedy by Jus Reign of Canada, and stellar performances of Gidha by Punjab Sports and Culture Club of Cincinnati Ohio and a variety fusion dance by Chicago Dhamaal. More than 120 male and female performers from all over the country participated in this event. The competition this year was among the Bhangra teams only. In addition to the great Bhangra competition experience, the participants had a lot of fun games and dancing during pre-event social mixers, post-event networking parties, meals and celebrations like a youth festival. “Ankh-E-Gabroo” an independent traditional bhangra team from New York won the Bragging rights to the 2012 PCS Chicago Bhangra Championship first place trophy and $1500 cash prize sponsored by Punjab Sports and […]

Chicago IL: Hari Om Mandir celebrated their 25th Annual Fund Raising Dinner with great fan and fare on Saturday, 13th October, 2012 at India House Banquet Hall, Schaumburg, IL. The program started with chanting of Shloka, ‘Karpur Gaurav Karunavtaram’ by Mrs. Sneh Chaudhary. Thereafter she introduced the MC’s for the evening Mrs. Indu Wadhwa who in turn called Gaurav, RJ from Desi Junction, as her co-host for the evening. Priests performed the Ganpati pooja and BOT Chairman Ayodhia Salwan, along with Rajeev Bharel, President Executive Board and Brij Sharma, Chairman Fund Raising, lighted the lamp. Govind Dhingra sang a Bhajan ‘Aaja Aaja Aajare Tu Gita ke Bhagwan tu Apna Vachan Nibhajare’. After this Brij Sharma and Rajeev Bharel gave welcoming speeches. Brij Sharma spoke about Temple and their importance for immigrants. Rajeev Bharel highlighted the contribution of all senior members who have worked day and night to generate the funds for setting up this temple. He also thanked the members of Fund Raising Committee and the members of both the Board who worked tirelessly to make this event a great success. This was followed by a speech by the Board of Trustees Chairman, Ayodhia Salwan. He apprised every one about […]

Chicago IL: Chinmaya Mission Chicago Badri and Yamunotri Centers together held its annual fundraising gala on Sunday, November 4th, 2012 at the renowned Waterford Banquet and Conference Center, located at 933 South Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, Illinois. The Mission holds their annual gala to help its growth and continue serving the Chicago area Indian community. Over 700 individuals attended this heartwarming event, which had speeches by Swami Sharananandaji and Swami Ishwaranand of Chinmaya Mission Los Angeles. More than $200,000 was raised in donations. There were also remarkable cultural performances presented by students of Bala Vihar. The theme of this year’s banquet was “Gratitude is the Attitude’. Distinguished dignitaries in attendance were Prof. and Mrs. Bala Bala Chandran, Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, Amrit Mittal, Nand Kumar and Dr. Lata, Dr. Sudarshan Sharma and Nituji, Mr. Rishikant Singh, Gen Mgr of Air India, Chicago, Mr. & Mrs. Sanjay Sharma, Finance Mgr. of Air India, Chicago, Dr. Bharat Barai, and other prominent Indian community members. The evening commenced with a traditional PurnaKumbha, Invocation, Gurustotram Chanting, welcome for the Acharyas, Honorable Head Table Guests, accompanied by Vedic Chanting that was rendered by Sevikas of the mission. The Acharyas then proceeded to light the lamp and paid […]