Category: Newspaper Links

Chicago IL: World Federation of Tamil Youth (WFTY) conferred the Selvi J. Jayalalithaa Award of Excellence 2013 on TV Asia Midwest Bureau chief Vandna Jhingan, while well-known vocalist Padma Mehta, introduced as “the nightingale of Chicagoland,” received the “International Woman of the Year 2013 Award.” Jhingan was recognized for her selfless devotion to community service and Mehta for her dedicated promotion of Indian music and heritage in the United States. Congressman Danny Davis presented the awards on Sunday, March 10, 2013, at the Holiday Inn, Rolling Meadows. The ceremony marked the 65th birthday celebrations of the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister after whom the Jayalalithaa Award is named. WFTY President Vijay Prabhakar recounted the history of this Jayalalithaa Award. This is the 20th consecutive year that WFTY has been honoring outstanding individuals. Previous awardees were Raja Krishnamoorthi (2012), Congressman Danny Davis (2011), Mother Teresa (1996), Illinois state senator Howard Carroll (1998), Wisconsin state senator Rodney C Moen (1999), and in 2004 US Congressman Ray LaHood, who is now U.S. Transportation Secretary. This time around, the celebration was timed to coincide with International Women’sDay. Jhingan, who was being recognized for her community services over the last 15 years, described her work with […]

Lombard IL: With red and pink heart-shaped balloons at the entrance of the banquet hall, over 200 guests gathered for a vibrant Valentine celebration on Sat., Feb. 23, 2013 at Viceroy of India, Lombard, according to a press release. Sponsored by the Club of Indian Women (CIW), the event was chaired by Pratibha Jairath, SaReGaMa Orchestra led by Hitesh Master and Kafi Khan provided the music. The singers were Pratibha Jairath, Raju Bankapur, and Hitesh Master joined by guest singer, Shaila Khedkar. The program was emceed by Madhu Uppal and Jairath. The evening peaked with Jairath singing love songs like Agar Tum Mil Jao, Aiye Meharban, Yeh Sama, Ajeeb Dastaan Chikni Chameli, and Yeh Mer Dil. . The dance floor filled up in no time and stayed that way when Raju Bankapur continued the singing with Sochenge Tumhe Pyar, Chand Sifarish, and Bachna Ae Haseeno. Later, the show continued with Master’s melodious numbers of Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Khedkar’s rendering of Kaisi Paheli and Parda Parda. The singing and dancing continued till midnight. Just about every lady guest at the Valentine celebration was in glamorous red or black and red attire and men in their best red tie or […]

Chicago IL: Air India (AI) Midwest held its annual awards program for about 150 attendees on Friday, March 1, 2013 at Meadows Club, Rolling Meadows, IL. Guests were seated at tables allocated by their Indian city of origin. Regional manager for the Americas Riwo Norbu had flown in from New York to join Air India Midwest Manager Rishikant Singh in presenting plaques to travel agents, who had generated the most revenue for the airline for fiscal year 2011–2012. Guests were treated to a quiz, a game, photography sessions, and dinner, followed by dancing on the floor. Rishikant Singh, who has 25 years of experience with AI, clarified that such recognition is an incentive to business partners to do even better and introduced Norbu, who quipped that he “expects a better performance next year.” Singh then introduced the rest of the Chicago AI team. A rapid slideshow on the past achievements into the 81st year of service and current operations of India’s national carrier followed starting with the course charted out by JRD Tata’s vision and his maiden flight in 1932. Centered in Delhi and Mumbai, AI and its partners service more than fifty destinations with 101 operational aircraft including the […]

Rolling Meadows, IL: Human Development Foundation (HDF) and Kulsoom Foundation celebrated ‘Rahmania For Sonia’ on Sat., 23 Feb. 2013 at Meadows Club (2950 Golf Rd, Rolling Meadows, Ill.). Hosted by Kulsoom Foundation and attended by over 400 people, the theme of the evening was ‘A girl, A Dream, A Mission’. It was about Sonia Shah who wanted to help poor girls of a small village in Pakistan by building a school but could not complete her mission due to a tragic accident in summer of 2012. The fundraiser included live and silent auction, a dance performance by Sonia’s friend Shimoli Shah and choreographed dance performance by Dhrishti Art at A.R. Rahman music, which kept people engage and glued to the stage till mid night. All the proceeds will go to building Sonia Shah Memorial School in village Kangra in rural North West of Pakistan. Of Pashtun heritage, Sonia lived and studied in four countries, Thailand, England, US and finally graduated a year early from Zurich International School in Switzerland. An honor student she had a thirst for understanding the world around her. In 2011, she was the youngest intern on Capitol Hill and in 2012 among the youngest intern at […]

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 […]