Category: Press releases

Sari, Samosas, and Spirituality: Bloomington Celebrates India’s Ancient Festival Chariots and Chants: A Journey of Unity at Festival of Joy Drums of Divinity: Festival of Joy Lights up Bloomington Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the streets of downtown Bloomington, Illinois, transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors, rhythms, and aromas as the 15th annual Festival of Joy, also known as the Sri Jagannath Ratha Yatra, unfolded at Museum Square. From 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 attendees gathered to immerse themselves in a celebration rooted in a 3,000-year-old Indian tradition, re-enacted with fervor and devotion in the heart of the Midwest. Organized by the Hare Krishna Community of Bloomington-Normal, inspired by International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), this vibrant festival wove together culture, spirituality, and community, creating a day of unity and jubilation for all. The Festival of Joy is no ordinary event—it’s a living, breathing expression of India’s ancient bhakti (devotional) tradition, brought to life through the Ratha Yatra, or Festival of Chariots. This parade, which traces its origins to Jagannatha Puri in Orissa, India, is the world’s longest-running street festival, celebrated globally from New York City’s Fifth Avenue to London’s […]

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In loving memory of :- Shashi Tuteja – Mother of Neha Dawra and Gaurav Tuteja – Wife of Devraj Tuteja Bhuveneshawari and V Natarajan – Parents of Subbu Iyer and Vibha Gupta Diljeet Kaur – Mother of Jasbir Suga and  Kely Suga Veena Dawra – Mother of Saurabh Dawra and Neha Dawra Kanubhai Patel – Father of Aria Patel Alok Suri – Father of Gagan Suri and Naveen Suri Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: In the heart of Streamwood, Illinois, a remarkable evening unfolded on August 26th that blended spirituality, cultural heritage, and heartfelt remembrance. Mata Chauki, hosted by RAJSHI Events in collaboration with SUGA Commercial & Residential, PN Entertainment, and a host of devoted community members, became more than just an event—it was a living testament to devotion, memory, and togetherness. This spiritual gathering, led by the renowned devotional singer Lakhbir Singh Lakha, resonated deeply with all who attended, turning the evening into an unforgettable chapter in the cultural life of the Indian diaspora in Illinois. The venue, International University of Vedic Wellness (IUVW) at 1 E Bode Rd, Streamwood, IL, became the sacred setting for the soulful gathering. From the moment the first note of the devotional music […]

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Scales of the Heart: Celebrating Love, Legacy, and Community at Tulabharam 2025 Asian Media USA © Naperville IL: In the heart of Naperville, Illinois, where suburban tranquility meets spiritual intensity, the ISKCON Temple at 1505 McDowell Road became a radiant sanctum of devotion on Saturday, August 9, 2025. The inaugural Tulabharam Festival, unfolding from 4 PM to 9 PM, transformed the temple into a mosaic of devotion, music, laughter, and charity, drawing hundreds of participants from all walks of life. This ancient ritual—where devotees offer donations equal to their own weight, or that of loved ones, revered Gurus, or the Lord’s Murti—evokes tales from the past, notably Satyabhama and Rukmini’s legendary offerings to Lord Krishna. More than mere ceremony, Tulabharam in Naperville became a celebration: a living tapestry woven with generosity, gratitude, and the harmony of glorious chants. Tulabharam holds a special place in the Vaishnavite tradition. Its central message: pure devotion outweighs the greatest material wealth; a principle echoed in the festival’s program and deeply embedded in ancient scriptures. As the sun dipped behind Naperville’s skyline, the temple grounds pulsed with anticipation and reverence, welcoming families, spiritual seekers, and well-wishers to partake in a ritual that honors the heart’s […]

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Heartbeats of Hindustan: FIA Night of Unity, Music, and Cultural PrideMelodies of Liberty: Chicago’s Vibrant Symphony of Patriotism and Bollywood NostalgiaFreedom’s Footprints FIA’s Innovative Celebration of India’s 79th Milestone Asian Media USA ©Chicago IL: In the heart of Chicagoland, where the winds whisper tales of diverse diasporas, theFederation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago orchestrated a masterpiece of cultural fusionon August 8, 2025. Marking India’s 79th Independence Day, the event at The Matrix Club inNaperville wasn’t just a celebration it was a living canvas where strokes of patriotic fervorblended seamlessly with the rhythmic hues of Bollywood. Under the visionary guidance ofFounder and Chairman Sunil Shah and President Anu Malhotra, this gathering transformed asuburban venue into a pulsating tribute to freedom, unity, and timeless melodies. Drawing over600 attendees, including dignitaries like Consulate General Somnath Ghosh and CongressmanRaja Krishnamoorthi, the night unfolded like a Bollywood blockbuster: emotional highs, dancesequences, award twists, and a musical climax that left the audience chanting for encores.The evening kicked off at 6:00 PM with a cocktail hour, setting a convivial tone amid the elegantambiance of The Matrix Club. By 7:00 PM, the “Tribute to Motherland” segment ignited thepatriotic spark. Co-emcees Anu Malhotra and Prachi Jaitley welcomed the crowd […]

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AAPI’s 43rd Annual Triumph: Leading Healthcare into a New Era AAPI’s 43rd Annual Triumph: Leading Healthcare into a New Era Asian Media USA © Cincinnati, OH: The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) concluded its 43rd Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly on July 27th, 2025, at the Cincinnati Marriott at River Center and Northern Kentucky Convention Center, delivering a transformative blend of medical innovation, cultural celebration, and a historic leadership transition. Over 1,000 delegates, including physicians, medical students, residents, and fellows, gathered in Cincinnati for an enriching experience that underscored AAPI’s pivotal role as the nation’s largest ethnic medical association, representing over 120,000 Indian American physicians and touching one in every seven patients in the U.S. The convention, held from July 24th to 27th, 2025, set a new benchmark for uniting medical excellence with cultural heritage, culminating in Dr. Amit Chakrabarty’s ascension to the presidency with a vision to unify and amplify AAPI’s influence in healthcare. The event’s highlight was the ceremonial passing of the gavel from outgoing President Dr. Satheesh Kathula to Dr. Amit Chakrabarty during the gala on July 26th, 2025, symbolizing a seamless transition and a renewed commitment to AAPI’s mission. Dr. Chakrabarty, an Alabama-based […]

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From Doubt to Victory: Dr. Divya Navani’s Leadership Revolution at AAPI Soulful Leadership: Dr. Divya Navani’s Transformative Impact Globally Breaking Barriers: Dr. Divya Navani’s Fight against Imposter Syndrome Unstoppable Leadership: Breaking Through the Barriers of Imposter Syndrome, Divya K. Navani, MD, Women Physicians, Committee Chair, 2024-2025, 43rd AAPI ( American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin) Convention and Scientific Assembly, Cincinnati, OH, USA. Asian Media USA © Cincinnati, OH: In the heart of Cincinnati, where the Ohio River glints under the summer sun, a powerful conversation unfolded at the 43rd Annual Convention of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). On July 25, 2025, the Cincinnati Marriott at RiverCenter became a crucible for inspiration, as the Women Physicians Forum hosted a panel discussion titled “Unstoppable Leadership: Breaking Down the Barriers of Imposter Phenomenon.” For the South Asian diaspora, particularly those navigating the high-stress and high-stakes world of medicine, this event was a clarion call to confront a silent adversary: imposter syndrome. Led by Dr. Divya K. Navani, the forum resonated deeply with over 1,000 delegates, offering a platform for women physicians to share their triumphs, vulnerabilities, and strategies for overcoming self-doubt. The convention itself was a vibrant tapestry […]

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Mahatma Gandhi’s Vision of Non-Violence: Celebrating Dr. Sriram Sonty’s Enduring Legacy Living Mahatma Gandhi’s Dream: Dr. Sriram Sonty’s Journey of Non-Violence Light, Laughter, and Love: Honouring Dr. Sriram Sonty’s Vibrant Life From Vision to Victory: Dr. Sriram Sonty’s Life of Service and Humour Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: On a warm Sunday evening, July 13, 2025, the Matrix Club in Naperville, Illinois, was filled with the warmth of memories, love, and reverence as friends, family, and colleagues gathered to honour the extraordinary life of Dr. Sriram Sonty. From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the venue resonated with heartfelt tributes, music, and stories that painted a vivid portrait of a man who was not only a distinguished ophthalmologist but also a cultural pillar, a devoted father, and a passionate advocate for peace. The event, emceed by Dr. Sonty’s elder daughter, Siri Sonty, wove together reflections on his professional achievements, cultural contributions, and profound commitment to Gandhian principles. The evening opened on a sacred note, with Sri Siva Namuduri delivering a prayer mantra crafted by Sri Vedala Srinivasacharya. Siri Sonty, standing before a screen displaying cherished photographs of her father’s life, set a reflective tone with her speech. “I don’t think […]

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Raising the Glass: Foreign Exchange’s Grand Opening Ignites Aurora’s Spirit       A Toast to Togetherness: Foreign Exchange Brews a Bright Future in Aurora Asian Media USA ©Aurora, IL: On July 2, 2025, downtown Aurora buzzed with excitement as Foreign Exchange Brewing Co. officially opened at 110 Cross St, Aurora, IL 60506. The grand opening, marked by a vibrant ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon, drew local dignitaries, community members, and beer enthusiasts to celebrate a milestone for Aurora’s growing business scene. With clinking glasses, heartfelt speeches, and a palpable sense of pride, Foreign Exchange emerged as a symbol of innovation, flavor, and community in the city. The event was a lively blend of music, cheers, and camaraderie, reflecting Aurora’s growth and the entrepreneurial spirit of Foreign Exchange’s founder, Ricky. The brewery, a homegrown venture, has been crafting and distributing beers for five years, but this opening marked its first permanent home in Ricky’s hometown. The crowd’s energy was electric, with chants of “Heat! Heat! Heat!” echoing through the streets, a playful nod to the passion fueling the day. Samir, a broadcaster from Asian Media USA, emceed the event with infectious enthusiasm. “We’re here at the grand opening of Foreign Exchange Brewing Co.,” he announced. “This is […]

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Tapestry of Glamour: BrowArt Weaves Dreams in Hanover Park Brushstrokes of Resilience: BrowArt’s Dazzling Debut in Hanover Park Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: On a vibrant Thursday afternoon, June 19, 2025, at precisely 12:00 noon, the village of Hanover Park, Illinois, witnessed a radiant celebration of resilience, entrepreneurship, and beauty. The grand opening of BrowArt Salon & Spa at 1230 E Lake St, nestled next to Caputo’s, marked a triumphant milestone for co-owners Anisha Talati and Dipmala Patel. This event wasn’t just the unveiling of a salon; it was a testament to dreams reborn, community support, and the transformative power of self-care. With a crowd buzzing with anticipation, local dignitaries, friends, and beauty enthusiasts gathered to christen this haven of elegance, setting the stage for a new era in Hanover Park’s cultural landscape. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a kaleidoscope of emotions, music, and heartfelt speeches. Anisha Talati, the visionary behind BrowArt, shared her journey with raw authenticity. Her story began in 2004, fueled by a passion for beauty and a dream to empower others through her craft. “This is my journey started in 2004, and this is my dream, like power of business,” Anisha said, her voice trembling with […]

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Shines Bright Vibrant Voices: AMEC’s 14th Annual Gala Unites a Global CommunityColors of Courage: AMEC’s 2025 Gala Honors the Spirit of TogethernessAsian Media USA ©Chicago IL: On a warm June evening in Naperville, Illinois, the Yellow Box at 1635 Emerson Lnpulsed with the heartbeat of humanity. The American Multi Ethnic Commission (AMEC) unfurledits 14th Annual Congressional Global Champions Gala on June 14, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 11:00PM, weaving a vibrant tapestry of 38 ethnic communities into a celebration of unity, culture, andshared dreams. Guided by the indomitable Dr. V J Prabhakar, popularly known as Dr. VGP thatsparked 15 years ago by Congressman Danny K. Davis’s vision, this gala wasn’t just an event,but it was a movement, a kaleidoscope of music, dance, and stories that lit up the night withhope and harmony.The evening burst into life with “Around the World in 60 Minutes,” a whirlwind of performancesthat whisked the audience across continents without a passport. Korean Americanpercussionist Chansoo Lee ignited the stage with a thunderous drumroll, setting the tone for aglobal journey. The Polonia Dance Ensemble spun Poland’s traditions into mesmerizing twirls,while the Ghunguru Dance Group unleashed Bollywood’s dazzling beats. The ChicagoNightingales brought the Philippines’ soulful grace, and Russia’s Kalinka […]

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Asian Media USA ©Chicago, IL: On a warm Chicago evening, the air buzzed with anticipation as the stage at TheMatrix Club prepared to come alive with the soul-stirring voice of Priyanka Barve. On June 13,2025, at 7:00 pm, Aarush Entertainment, Rudra Creation, and Dhrishti presented anunforgettable musical journey — “Celebrating Legendary Divas: Mughal-E-Azam’s Anarkali.” Itwas more than just a concert; it was a heartfelt tribute to the timeless voices that have definedgenerations — delivered by a classical vocalist whose talent knows no bounds.The Matrix Club, with its state-of-the-art acoustics and inviting ambiance, provided the perfectsetting for this musical extravaganza. It was a celebration of culture, community, and theuniversal language of music. The event was a houseful show, where families, friends, and musiclovers of all ages came together to share in the rich legacy of song — creating memories thatwill linger long after the final note.Priyanka Barve, a name that resonates with versatility and brilliance, is no stranger to stealingthe spotlight. A classically trained vocalist from a rich musical family, she has carved a niche inBollywood and Marathi cinema with her soulful playback singing. Her voice — a blend ofclassical finesse and modern flair — has graced numerous films and albums, […]

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Roses, Rivers, and Rebel Spirit: Unraveling Portland’s Magic Portland’s Eclectic Heartbeat: Where Wild Meets Wonder Chicago IL: Beneath a canopy of evergreens and the gentle hum of urban whimsy, we embarked on a summer pilgrimage to Portland, Oregon—a city where bridges arc like poetry over the Willamette River, and the air carries the scent of roses, coffee, and dreams. Known as the Rose City, Portland weaves a tapestry of rugged wilderness, eclectic culture, and progressive charm. Fresh off last year’s breathtaking encounter with Mount Rainier, we plotted a road trip from Tacoma, Washington, in late May, armed with the vibrant insights of TravelPortland.com. Our adventure began with a detour to the raw, elemental beauty of Mount St. Helens. At the Forest Learning Center and Visitor Center, we were swept into the fiery saga of the 1980 eruption through immersive exhibits, feeling the pulse of a mountain still whispering its volcanic secrets. Trails led us to vistas where the peak stood proud, a photographer’s muse framed by wildflowers and sky. Further along, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site unfolded tales of the Columbia River’s fur trade past, its Hudson’s Bay Company legacy etched into the riverbanks. Seeking respite, we melted into the […]

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Raga & Resonance: A Night of Classical Magic with Ustad Ghulam Abbas Khan Ustad Ghulam Abbas Khan: Global King of Raga, Sufi, and Ghazal Asian Media USA ©  Chicago, IL:  On the enchanting evening of May 31, 2025, the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg, Illinois, transformed into a sanctuary of soul-stirring melodies, as the legendary Ustad Ghulam Abbas Khan took center stage for an unforgettable night of Hindustani classical music, Sufi, and ghazals. Organized by Khurram Syed under the esteemed banner of DK Omsheel Production and with the gracious support of Chicago community leader Mr. Iftekhar Sharif, the first overseas citizen of India, this cultural extravaganza, titled Soulful Classical, Sufi & Ghazals, brought together connoisseurs of music for a four-hour journey from 8:00 PM to midnight. The event was a testament to the timeless allure of Indian classical music, weaving together tradition, artistry, and emotional depth. The evening was masterfully hosted by Amin Haider, whose eloquent commentary and storytelling added a profound layer to the experience. Haider’s insightful introductions, peppered with anecdotes from Ustad Ghulam Abbas Khan’s illustrious career, illuminated the maestro’s journey from a musically inclined youth to a globally revered artist. One such story captivated the audience: […]

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Chants and Cheers: Medinah’s Grand Hanuman Utsav United Community Petals from the Sky: Shri Hanuman Mahotsav 2025 Promises Divine Bliss Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: In a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and community, Hari Om Mandir in Medinah, Illinois, hosted the Shri Hanuman Mahotsav on May 31, 2025, transforming the temple grounds into a radiant hub of devotion and festivity. Drawing over 900 devotees from the Chicagoland area, the event was a testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of the Hindu Society of Metropolitan Chicago. From sacred rituals to mesmerizing cultural performances, the Mahotsav wove together tradition and innovation, leaving attendees inspired and deeply connected to their heritage. The day commenced at 9:00 AM with a hearty breakfast, setting a warm and welcoming tone for the spiritual journey ahead. By 10:00 AM, the air was thick with reverence as approximately 50 families participated in the Sapt Kundiya Havan, a sacred Vedic fire ceremony. The rhythmic chants and the rising flames created a serene ambiance, invoking divine blessings and fostering a sense of unity among participants. This ancient ritual, meticulously organized under the guidance of Acharya Vajpayee Ji, was a powerful reminder of the community’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions. At 11:00 […]

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