Category: Newspaper Links

Chicago IL: Bollywood Milestones 1961-2011 musical charity concert was organized by Ekal Vidyalaya from 7:00 PM to 11:PM, on Saturday April 14, 2012 at Glenbard East High School, 1014 South Main St, Lombard, IL. Ekal had invited two young rising singers Samir Date and Dipalee Somaiya from Mumbai to help celebrate the milestone and raise more funds to continue their mission to eradicate illiteracy among the children of rural and tribal India with holistic empowerment. It was the singer’s twenty first performance of the tour that will span across several cities over the next five month period when in all forty two performances are to be staged. As always, Ekal included a extravagant dinner in its modest ticket price. All the attendees were served the dinner at around 5:00 pm. that included Puri, Mix Vegetables, Dudhi Halwo(Sweet), Fulwadi(Farsan),Chana, :Dal, Rice.. (food prepared by BAPS). After the dinner, the program started at around 7:00 pm. First of all Aum Stuti was recited. Yash Desai and her group recited Prarthna. Guest of Honor Mr Mafatbhai lighted a lamp with Ekal Chicago Chapter President and group of kids . Master of ceremony was performed by two youngsters Jugal Doshi and Sonali Majmudar. They […]

Chicago IL: IDF Project Goodness 2012 and Launching of IDF USA was arranged by IDF India at 6.30pm, on 19th October 2012, at India House Banquet, 1521 West Schaumburg Road. Schaumburg, IL. The Trustees of IDF USA cordially invited elite group of Chicago with family to grace IDF Project Goodness 2012, in spite of short notice and lots of engagements due to Navratri and other reasons, many graced the event. There were number of Photographs Exhibited near the stage depicting various achievements and meetings of IDF with Prominent Personalities of India including Past President APJ Abdul Kalam, Late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Mother Terrasa, Sam Pitroda and many Sports and Bollywood Personalities and their various Projects. Up to 6-30 pm Fellowship and Introduction with individuals prevailed with munching. Mrs. Sunita Latamba- MC of the evening invited all to take their seats and invited Dr. ARK Pillai, Dr. Narayan B. Iyer, Congrssman Joe Walsh, Bhailalbhai Patel on the stage to perform traditional Lamp Lighting. Which was made pious by reciting Mantras by Rohit Joshi and prayer by Mr. Glenn Josepph. Before proceeding starts, National Anthems by USA and India were recited. Welcome and Introduction about IDF was […]

Chicago IL: Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC) presented Raas Garba Ramzat on Friday, October 19, 2012 at Jain Center, 435 N. Route 59, Bartlett, IL. JSMC organized Raas Garba Ramzat for the third consecutive year. Purpose and goal for organizing the event was dual, Community Service and Fund Raising. The whirling dancers, clapping hands, distinct sound of wooden sticks struck together, toe tapping music and people wearing colorful clothes marked the Navratri celebration at the Garba & Dandiya Raas. Ticket were $10 (in advance), At the Door – 12, Children under 6 years free Event started at 8:00pm on October 19th with Garba time with Non-stop music provided by Raj & Smruti Pandya group from KY. This followed by Break at 10:00 PM. During Break, various food stalls were available to purchase food at minimal cost. Lamp Lighting Ceremony by Sponsors of the event was organized after Break when Platinum Sponsors and Golden Sponsors were present. After Lamp Lighting Ceremony winner of Garba and Best dress in Groups of 18 years and below and above were declared and Sponsors and Musicians were honored with presentation of Plaques. After that all participated in Garba with clapping. There after Raas time […]

Bensenville, IL: On Saturday, October 27, 2012 the Gujrati Samaj Chicago (GSC) Board of Trustees, members of executive committee and volunteers hosted colorful Raas Garba festivity on the occasion of Navratri. This annual sacred event is celebrated in honor of Godess Durga and Amba Mataji. The event was held at Manav Seva Mandir located at 101 S. Church Road, Bensenville , IL. and attended by over 400 individuals. Backless cholis, embroidered chania, colorful dhotis and kurtas and a kaleidoscope of saris were all out as Gujaratis in particular and others in general danced to the tune of loud music in Somerset as Navratri began with the usual gusto throughout the United States. The Mahalaxmi hall of Manav Seva Mandir was transformed in to a huge dance floor to accommodate hundreds of bare feet moving in to thunderous drumbeats in swirling circles around deity Hindu Goddess “Durga and Amba Mata”. The celebrations started when darkness fell and continued till the wee hours of the day. Young and old, men and women danced their heart out in front of Amba Mata. Particularly in the Chicago area which is the hub of the Indian and Gujarati population. Musicians from India made it to […]

Chicago IL: Cine Starz Entertainment – Rafi Hussain. A leading name in the Entertainment World presented Bollywood and Desi Songs with live band Bollywood Badshah Mika Singh performed Live at the Sears Center for the first time ever in Chicago. It was an electrifying performance by Mika along with Professional Dancers. He was accompanied by the beautiful feminine Miss India Finalist Ishita Sarkar and a successful Playback Singer Shraddha Pandit, live on Friday, October 26, from 8:30 PM, at Sears Centre, 5333 Arena – Hoffman Estates, IL. Ticket Rates were: $75, $55, $39. Ishita Sarkar one of the most talented Emcees started the program with her scintillating and gorgeous style. Presenting a Musical Song by Ravi on violin, followed by forceful, talented, upcoming stars Raman Kappor and Aka Singh. Presented popular Bollywood and Punjabi Songs in Hilarious style. Thereafter array of love, romance started with Shraddha Pandit presented an array of songs mesmerizing the audience. Then entered Badshah of music, Mika Singh starting with ‘Ek Dusre Ko Rat Bhar Sone Nahi Denge and ending also with the same songs. In between there was an Ocean of Vigour, Spirit making the entire audience rocking with his spectacular presentation of Punjabi and […]

Chicago, IL: On Saturday, October 13, 2012 the Hamdard Center for Health and Human Services held its 20th Annual Gala at the Donald E. Stephens Rosemont Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. It was a celebration of 20 years at with special guest, Khaleel the comedian as the Master of Ceremony. Evening highlights included a high couture Cultural and royal fashion show produced by Sahil and featuring the Royal Bride Collection by Umang Hutheesing, wonderful, live music with Singer Amanat Ali, and an extremely entertaining live auction presented by Michael Espe of Zaffarano Auctioneers. Theme fashion show was of Jaipur, Rajasthan. 750+ people from the South Asian and American Community attended the program. Featuring Musical Guest Amanat Ali was a Pakistani singer who was one of the finalists on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007. He placed third in the competition and garnered 34,314,257 votes in the final two weeks. Choreographer Farah Khan and Indian ghazal singer Jagjit Singh heralded him as a “great discovery”. Amanat once performed with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, who paid him five hundred rupees for his performance. Amanat is the son of singer Nazakat Ali. Amanat sand the “Khabar Nahi” song for the 2008 film […]

Chicago, IL: On Saturday, October 13, 2012 the Hamdard Center for Health and Human Services held its 20th Annual Gala at the Donald E. Stephens Rosemont Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. It was a celebration of 20 years at with special guest, Khaleel the comedian as the Master of Ceremony. Evening highlights included a high couture Cultural and royal fashion show produced by Sahil and featuring the Royal Bride Collection by Umang Hutheesing, wonderful, live music with Singer Amanat Ali, and an extremely entertaining live auction presented by Michael Espe of Zaffarano Auctioneers Theme fashion show was of Jaipur, Rajasthan so audience encouraged to dress up. 975 people from the South Asian and American Community attended the program. Over $275,000 was raised for good cause. Beside all Business and professional people, Prominent community leaders there were dignitaries included Bosnian Consul General Elden Kajevic and Pakistani Consul General Zaheer Pervaiz Khan who attended this event. The target was to raised $200,000 however Hamdard Center raised $275,000 of which will go towards their seven programs including the domestic violence division, transitional housing, senior services, youth services, primary and mental health services, and case management. Master of Ceremony: Khaleel the comedian. Khaleel Farooqie […]

Chicago IL: The quest for spiritual happiness is a practical necessity, not a lofty ideal, says a Swami Mukundananda Ji who finished a one day Retreat on Saturday, October 20, 2012 – at the Holiday Inn, Rolling Meadows, IL. It was a special day Special day of spiritual rejuvenation and frolicking fun. Devotees spent quality time in the inspiring company of Swamiji, nourishing their body, mind, and soul. The program was packed with Bhajans, Leela Descriptions, Discourses, Bhajan Competition, Meditation and on top of it Excellent presentation by Chicago Bal Mukund Center – which runs its Character Building Program for kids in ages 4-16 based on our Vedic Scriptures in Palatine, IL. A new Back to Community program was kick started by J K Yog in Conjunction with Chicago Food Depository on Oct 20, 2012 – where J K Yog is planning to help raise meals for Chicago Community. An excellent way of giving back to Community. J K Yog has been doing back to community programs around the World for decades now. Swami Mukundananda Ji is a spiritual leader whose lectures apply the ancient Vedas, or Hindu scriptures, to the challenges of 21st-century existence. He teaches audiences how to […]

Chicago IL: Metropolitan Asian Family Services, a pioneer in the field of Senior Care in Chicago Metropolitan area celebrated its 20th anniversary on Sept 22nd, at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows IL. The evening was graced by elected officials, dignitaries visiting from India, Indian community leaders, seniors and their families. Metropolitan Asian Family Services, a not-for-profit agency provides comprehensive and integrated social services to the immigrant population of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Middle East and European Countries. Our services include adult day care services, home care services, hot meal program, health education and screening, citizenship and immigration assistance, public benefits assistance, job training, computer training and ESL class, interpretation and translation services, support services for caregivers, medical clinic and health promotion programs. They currently have 7 offices serving 11 counties in the Greater Chicago area. The festivities started with lamp lighting and invocation prayer. The MC of this event was MASALA -T, who is the costar of the worldwide talk show HOTCHAAT. Currently, he is acting in two hollywood movies and working towards being the biggest Bollywood hollywood dual star ever. He had an amazing stage presence and handled the announcements with ease. He invited all the guests of honor […]

Skokie, IL: On Sunday, September 23, 2012, the Indo American Democratic Organization hosted its 33rd Annual Banquet at the Holiday Inn Chicago North Shore located at 5300 Touhy Avenue, Skokie, IL 60077. Cocktail Reception was from 5-30 to 6-30 pm. IADO was incorporated in March of 1980. Its mission is to lobby on behalf of the Indian American community on issues of immigration, affirmative action, education, social security, healthcare reform and hate crimes. Additionally, they strive to get Indian Americans to participate in the political process from voting to running for office. In 2011 IADO has endorsed Rahm Emmanuel with the election of a new mayor in Chicago. Also IADO is proud to endorse and raised funds for the first ever Indian American and first ever Asian American Alderman for the city of Chicago, Ameya Pawar. Parag Mehta did excellent job as MC. He introduced most of the dignitaries and handled whole program that flourished. He gave entertaining yet most heart throbbing speech enthusing every one towards realities of Democratic Party and President Obama in particular. Parag Mehta is former Director of Training for the democratic National Committee. He is a Communications Specialist with more than a decade of experience […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES Chicago IL: Sahil and L.A. Tan Chicago local promoter presented Shreya Ghoshal Live in Concert at 8.00 pm this Friday, September, 14 2012 at Akoo Theatre (Rosemont), 5400 N. River Road, Des Plaines IL 60018. By On public Demand Shreya sang some old Golden Melodies in addition to her own newer hit songs. Shri Balaji Entertainments was a national promoter of Shreya Ghoshal tour in North America. The program started with entry of Iqubal Jafri as MC and few performances of local artists were presented starting with songs from Ms. Dasgupta, Pasha, a dance with song by Komal Sharma and a young dancer Nisha. All these warmed up the audience those were eager to hear Shreya. Amidst screaming proclamations of love from fans with rhythmic claps and audible hums, Shreya unfolded her repertoire of soothing love songs, delectable duets with up and coming singer Prithvi (who often drew attention with his deep, powerful vocals) and vigorous danceable numbers. In addition Iquabal Jafri played the role of MC as well as sang few songs with his spirited voice and exceptional method. So there was ‘ ‘Tujh mein rabb dikhta hai’, ‘Teri oru, teri oru’, ‘Naino ko dheere dheere’, ‘Tere […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES- DAY1 DOWNLOAD PICTURES- DAY2 DOWNLOAD PICTURES- DAY3 Day-1 Edison, NJ: Chaalo Gujarat, World Gujarati Conference 2012 was organized by the Association of Indian Americans in North America (AIANA) in New Jersey, USA during Friday 31, August to Sunday 2, September, 2012 at the Raritan Expo Center. Theme of third Chaalo Gujarat event was Gujarat, Gujarati, Gujaratism. There were plenty Cultural and Art Performances arranged successfully during three days’ long Conference. Everybody present there, enjoyed fully the Culture of Gujarat, its Art, literature and Gujaratism. Three days extravaganza under one roof conducted by Sunil Nayak, the person behind all these tremendous work, always love to experiment with and try to present something new every time. Owed as the biggest gathering of its kind outside India, Chaalo Gujarat attracted more than 30,000 for the duration of the conference. The State of New Jersey even issued a proclamation declaring Aug. 31 as Gujarati Day as recognition of the community’s contributions to the state. A spectacular Multimedia show encompassing “Dhanya Dhara Saurashtra & Kutch Gaatha” was an enigma in itself to watch was an amazing experience. On the first day, everybody relished the Cultural and Artistic Media Show based on Kutchh and […]

  Edison, NJ: Chaalo Gujarat, World Gujarati Conference 2012 was organized by the Association of Indian Americans in North America (AIANA) in New Jersey, USA during Friday 31, August to Sunday 2, September, 2012 at the Raritan Expo Center. Theme of third Chaalo Gujarat event was Gujarat, Gujarati, Gujaratism. There were plenty Cultural and Art Performances arranged successfully during three days’ long Conference. Everybody present there, enjoyed fully the Culture of Gujarat, its Art, literature and Gujaratism. Three days extravaganza under one roof conducted by Sunil Nayak, the person behind all these tremendous work, always love to experiment with and try to present something new every time. Owed as the biggest gathering of its kind outside India, Chaalo Gujarat attracted more than 30,000 for the duration of the conference. The State of New Jersey even issued a proclamation declaring Aug. 31 as Gujarati Day as recognition of the community’s contributions to the state. Chaalo Gujarat 3rd Day 09-02-2012 Sunday On the third and final day of ‘Chaalo Gujarat’ giant Ratinan Center was overwhelmingly crowded in celebrating the final day of the event. It was a grand success. Under the leadership and dedicated work of Sunil Nayak and his team was […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES New Jersey: Edison, NJ: Chaalo Gujarat, World Gujarati Conference 2012 was organized by the Association of Indian Americans in North America (AIANA) in New Jersey, USA during Friday 31, August to Sunday 2, September, 2012 at the Raritan Expo Center. September 1, 2012 First time in North America, Chaalo Gujarat hosted a pageant for young Gujarati ladies across the country, titled Miss Gujarat USA 2012. Eight highly intelligent, beautiful and talented young women, representing thousands of Gujarati girls in the US, who strive to keep their culture and values alive, despite living so far away from Gujarat. Never before has any pageant had the kind of platform or audience that Chaalo Gujarat will provide for Miss Gujarat USA contestants. In an effort to involve the Gujarati youth in the event, Miss Gujarat USA serves to demonstrate the pride Gujaratis have in the next generation. Shradha Amin from New Jersey was chosen as Miss Gujarat USA 2012 during the World Gujarati Conference 2012, Chaalo Gujarat on September 1, 2012. Other title holders were first Runner up Meera Thakrar and second Runner up Ekta Khetia. Miss Gujarat USA 2012 pageant was an undeniable success at this year’s Chaalo Gujarat. Featuring […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES Chicago IL : : Renowned Bollywood music director and singer Bappi Lahiri, popularly known as Bappida, performed live in concert at 9:00 pm, on Friday – August 24, 2012 at Copernicus Theater (Former Gateway Theater), 5216 West Lawrence Avenue Chicago, IL 60630 The magnificent Theatre was packed with a phenomenal number of people who attended this Concert. Bappi Lahiri, the heart-beat of Bollywood music and Cinema, who is a playback singer, mesmerized enthusiastic crowd for about 3.5 hour. Tickets for show ranged from $25, $35, $50, VIP and VVIP. Manpasand (Bhavna Modi) is national promoter and The Local promoter of Chicago show was Manpasand (Bhavna Modi), Payal Shah and Noor Tejany. The concert was started as 9: 00 pm. After the warm up of the orchestra, Instrumental musical song started with and Purvi Dalvi sang ‘Aao Tumhen Chandpe Bichhaye.. Pyar Bhare Sapne Sajaye, Chhotasa Bangla Banae,Ek Nayi Duniya Basae’. Alka sang, Satyam Shivam Sundaram-Ishwar Satyahai, Shiv Hi Sunder Hai, Jago, Uthkar Dekho, Jivan Jyot Magar Hai, Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram’ Sunny a young singer sang a song,’Ek Hasinathi, Ek Diwana Tha, Kya Ummar Thi, Kya Zamana Tha’ and Rup Tera Mastana, Pyar Mera Diwana’ Dipalika Chaudhari sang a song […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES Skokie IL: On Sunday August 19, 2012 Muslims from all over the metropolitan area joyfully bustled into the Holiday Inn, 5300 Touhy Ave, Skokie, IL to join in on the global celebrations of Eid Ul-Fitr. While there were various venues that held Eid prayers throughout the region, one of the largest turnouts was at the Holiday Inn. The block was quite a sight to passersby. Groups of individuals in vibrant Indian-Pakistani clothing flooded the parking lots as they made their way to the exquisite banquet hall to commemorate the glorious day. Women in vibrant colored dresses, men in ethic outfits and children, smiling and laughing, filled the parking lots and were pouring into the hotel lobby. As individuals worked through the crowded doorways, volunteers from Eid committee gathered funds to recover event expenses. Demonstrating true Islamic generosity, many emptied their pockets and purses into the collecting bins before taking their shoes off and heading into the prayer halls. Men and women continuously and open-heartedly made space for incoming members so everyone would be able to partake in the namaz. Namaz was recited throughout the morning and afternoon to accommodate the 9,000 enthusiastic individuals in attendance. Despite the large […]

  Naperville, IL. For the fourth year Naperville had a huge Indian gathering at the City Hall on Aug 18th, to celebrate the India Independence day hosted by the Alliance of Midwest India Associations, Chairman Mr. Prem Lalvani, Directors Mr. M. Bhaskaran, Krishan Sant, Dave Vasudevan, Suresh Khattar, Prasad Gharkhedkar, Sangeeta Wadwani, Archana Ochani, Nadja Lalvani greeted and welcomed the dignitaries and the guests. Mayor George A. Pradel, Mayor Dr. Lalmalani (Oakbrook), Mayor Dr. Trivedi (Lockport), Illnois State Representative Darleen Senger addressed the gathering. Tri-Colored India flag was gently hoisted as the enthusiastic crowd chanted Bharat Mata Ki jai and Vande Matharam. Mayor Pradel offered a brilliant speech that cheered the entire audience. Gautham Khanna was the emcee for the event. American National Anthem was recited by Megha Verma, followed by raising of the India flag, then the India National anthem recited by Priyana Khanna & Shreya Dudeja. Cultural programs were followed by the speeches of the dignitaries. Bollywood Rhythms had three of their colorful dance teams. Dances were very well choreographed by the artistic Director Mrs. Bhagya Nagesh. Pathakas: performed by Sarah Parikh, Rhea Singh, Rishelle Manda, Rishika Molugu, Neil Gupta, Abhinav Gupta, Srikar Gutta, Dhruv Nagesh. Glamdolls performed […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES Chicago IL: Federation of Indian Associations [FIA] Chicago held a Grand Gala Banquet in commemoration of India Independence Day on Friday, August 17, 2012 that attracted overflowing guest attendance filled to the capacity at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows, Illinois with showcased in great measure the spirit of festive celebrations and patriotic ardor. This evening gala of celebrations and awards presentations were hosted in conjunction with Drishti Arts. The banquet saw the convergence of community’s elite and the eminent at this sold-out evening gala celebrations heightened by music, dance, fine food and celebratory revelry. The banquet brought great musical ensemble with their extravaganza “Aye Mere Waton Ke Logo” a special live-audio/visual musical tribute to Mother India. The evening belted out some melodious patriotic theme musicals of yesteryears which was followed by ‘SAREGAMA’ youthful musical pop and fusion music and songs presented by the cream of young talent from India. Ajai Agnihotri, FIA President welcoming the guests said the evening’s gala provides an outstanding opportunity to showcase our ideals of patriotism and indianness while affording us a collective chance to celebrate India’s great milestone event. Ajai Agnihotri further said “I am honored to have been bestowed with the […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES Chicago, IL: Kanan Cruises, Chicago’s newest and largest private Charter Vessel Boat was the venue for a very special program on August 12, 2012. Over 250 devotees boarded on Kanan Cruise at Navy Pier Lakefront to participate in Amrit Varsha a discourse by Shri Sudhanshuji Ji Maharaj. It was rarest of the rare opportunity to feel soothing effect in this course that was given on Sunday Aug.12, 2012 in sailing voyage in Lake Michigan. Amrit Varsha-a discourse by Shri Sudhanshu Ji, which was followed by Maha Prasad (Dinner). All devotees were inspired motivated and uplifted among the calm water & stunning Chicago Sky Scrapers. The festivity was eventful as boarding started at 5;00 p.m. at Navy Pier. All devotees boarded first & then his Holiness Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj entered the ship. The Program started at 6.15 p.m. by humble devotee MC Anju Lal. Her pious voice captured the devotees right away. The entire voyage discourse comprised of devotional Bhajans by renowned artists Narendra Vashishtha, Anju Lal, Neha Rathi, Mr. Kohli and Tarikhbhai Parikh Ji. It was accompanied by Puran Yyas JI on Tabla, Anilbhai on Manjira and Narendra Ji on Harmonium & Surinder Ji on dholak. Narendraji started […]

DOWNLOAD PICTURES Iselin NJ – On a beautiful Sunday, the sun shined as over 27,000 celebrated India’s Independence Day. The annual parade, hosted by the Indian Business Association, a non-profit organization, is now in its 8th year. “Thanks to all our sponsors, volunteers, and over 100 organizations that participated, we delivered a great parade to our community” said Kapil Shah, President of the IBA. Commencing at Wood Avenue, on Oak Tree Road, the parade featured a marching band, over 15 floats, dozens of marching groups, and even a horse carriage, the latter courtesy of Wells Fargo. Leading the parade was Grand Marshal and Bollywood actress Prachi Desai and Special Guest Aadesh Shrivastava, a noted singer and music director. Thousands dressed in traditional Indian attire, a tribute to India’s freedom fighters. India became free of British rule on August 15, 1947. Several prominent elected officials attended today’s event, including Woodbridge Mayor John McCormick, Congressman Frank Pallone, State Senator Sam Thompson, Freeholders Polos and Rios and members of the Woodbridge Council. “The Indo-American Community should be proud, this is an amazing event” said Congressman Pallone. The parade route was decorated with American and Indian flags. “The theme of this year’s parade was […]