Category: Press releases

Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: On August 12th, 2024 Association of Indians in America IL- Chapter celebrated India’s Independence at Daley Plaza. The celebration was graced by Mr. T. Bhutia the Deputy Consul General of India in Chicago and an enthusiastic proponent of respect for every community Ms. Maria Pappas the treasurer of cook county.  The flag hoisting was done with great pomp and gaiety and attended by esteemed members of the AIA committee and community at large. It was a great pleasure to see many people of Indian descent from nearby offices and passerby join the fun. The AIA Independence Day event was marked by a crowd of 150 odd people full of beautiful singing of national anthems and patriotic songs by a budding young Chicago based artist Khushi Jain. Classical dance by Rashika Bendekar, Kabita Dey and an electric Punjabi dance by Madhu Arya ji and team added life to the event. Ms. Papa’s lovely note to the community and its contribution to the USA highlight her address. We would like to thank her for identifying our organization’s contribution to the Chicagoland community. Mr. T.D Bhutia in his address spoke about the contribution of India towards USA- […]

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: The United States government must work for a ceasefire, end the starvation and violations of international law in Gaza, members of the Pakistan Progressive Forum resolved on Sunday. The forum had organized a symposium entitled “Peace and Conflict in a Multipolar World” in downtown Chicago that was widely attended by Pakistani Americans. The speakers included Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Dr Ayesha Siddiqa, Dr Ammar Ali Jan. The event was moderated by Raza Rumi. Congressman Bowman, who is running for office again, highlighted his unwavering support for the Palestinian people and how he had resisted the pressure not to call for a ceasefire and ask for ending Israeli atrocities against the people of Gaza.  “I am against the death of children everywhere in the world. They wanted me not to speak about starving children, not call for a ceasefire but I cannot stay silent,” added Bowman. He emphasized why all communities in the U.S. need to push back against hegemonic and supremacist discourses.  The new world order that is taking shape is far more brutal and authoritarian, said Dr Ayesha Siddiqa. She highlighted how peculiar forms of nationalisms were emerging as a response as well as […]

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the 6th largest jewelry retailer globally with an annual turnover of USD 6.2 billion and retail presence of 350 showrooms across 13 countries, has just unveiled its 4th showroom in the USA at Naperville, Illinois. This brings the global jewelry brand’s showroom count globally to 350, with 5 showrooms in North America. Malabar Gold & Diamonds currently has an extensive retail presence across the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, India, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, KSA, Malaysia & Singapore. The new showroom was inaugurated by HE. Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India in Chicago in the presence of Mr. Shamlal Ahamed, MD-International Operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Mr. Rakesh Patel of Patel brothers, Mr. Joseph Eapen, President of North America operations of Malabar Gold & Diamonds, community leaders, representatives from government and other authorities, management team members from Malabar Gold & Diamonds, customers and well-wishers. “The launch of Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ 350th Global showroom in the USA is a proud occasion for us as it signifies the growing footprint of our brand in the international jewelry arena. Located in the city of Naperville, this showroom will undoubtedly bring the […]

Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL:  On Sunday, April 28, 2024, the stars aligned as Vidya Jyoti – Global Education Opportunity Foundation rolled out the red carpet for its dazzling Bollywood Glam Gala at the Ashyana Banquets. The evening, themed “Spotlight on Your Inner Talent,” brought together a constellation of supporters, sponsors, and community members in a celebration of education, talent, and compassion. Vidya Jyoti, a beacon of hope for underprivileged children and youth, showcased its commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty through educational support. Founded in 2021 by the visionary President Pratibha Jairath, Vidya Jyoti has touched the lives of over 1,500 children and youth, guiding them towards a brighter future filled with opportunities. The Gala, a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit endeavor, was a star-studded affair attended by prominent figures like Sunil Shah, Anil Loomba, Pinky and Dinesh Thakkar, Ashok Potdar, Mayur Ganger, Naresh Shah, Brij Sharma, Bill Lyon, and Aurora’s very own Alderwoman Shweta Baid. Their presence underscored the unwavering support for Vidya Jyoti’s noble cause. Anita Beri, Vice-President & Treasurer of Vidya Jyoti, set the stage with a warm welcome, paving the way for Pratibha Jairath’s inspiring remarks. The audience was treated to a captivating presentation highlighting […]

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago, a 501(c)(3) organization, hosted a spectacular, vibrant, and colorful Holi celebration marked by a beautifully decorated stage and premises filled with music, dance, Thandai (a special India drink), delicious food, and singing that depicted glorious Indian culture at the Mall of India, Naperville, Illinois, on Sunday, April 21, 2024. The grand event kicked off with an ensemble by Maharashtra Mandal called ‘Dhol Tasha’. This rhythm got the entire crowd, including the mall visitors, to join in the fun and dance together. The mayor of Naperville, Scott Wehrli, joined in the traditional dance and learned a few steps. This was followed by the emcees Nilabh Dubey (Secretary-General) and Sanskriti Sharma taking over the program by inviting FIA Chairman and Founder, Sunil Shah, President Pratibha Jairath, and Past President Vinita Gulabani on the stage. Chairman and Founder Sunil Shah welcomed on the stage the Chief Guest for the day, Consulate General of India, Somnath Ghosh. This was followed by welcoming the Mayor of Naperville, Scott Wehrli, Congresswoman Michelle Mussman, Mayor of Oakbrook, Larry Herman, and the Alderwoman of Aurora, Shweta Baid. On the stage, the dignitaries were joined by Advisory Board members Pinky Thakkar, Sushma […]

Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: Poets from India enthralled the audience with laughter at the Hashya Kavi Sammelan organized by the UP Association of Greater Chicago on April 21 st, 2024, at the Ashyana banquet, Downers Grove, Illinois. Three outstanding poets invited from India to perform were Arun Gemini, Shambhu Sikhar and Mumtaz Naseem. These poets kept the audience spellbound with hashya poetry, comedy, gazals, and geets for about three hours. Mr. Shikhar and Mr. Gemini both recited outstanding poetry with satire and comedy. Mrs. Naseem recited several beautiful gazals and geets. The audience enjoyed every moment of this unique program organized by the UP association.  The event started with a formal welcome by Dr. Subhash Pandey, the chairman board of trustees of UP association. He mentioned that the UP Association started this tradition of ‘Kavi Sammelan’ in 1991 to promote and preserve Hindi language outside of India. He said that this annual event of the UP Association has been extremely popular and well received by people in the Chicago area. Dr. Pandey also thanks the International Hindi Association of North America for promoting the national language, Hindi and collaborating with UP association in conducting Kavi Sammelan in Chicago […]

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

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

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

Asian Media USA © Chicago, IL: The Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago (FIA), elevated the celebration of India’s Republic Day to new heights on January 28th, at the prestigious Matrix Club in Chicago. This momentous occasion, dedicated to honoring the adoption of the Constitution of India, transcended expectations through a symphony of grand celebrations, patriotic fervor, and a vibrant tapestry showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the nation. The 2024 Republic Day festivities orchestrated by FIA were a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to excellence, featuring a diverse array of events, impactful community service initiatives, and a spectacular grand show that unequivocally underscored India’s profound unity in diversity. A noteworthy highlight of the evening was a breathtaking performance by acclaimed artists from India, led by the talented Shahid Rafi, the son of the legendary Padmashree Mohammad Rafi, revered as the Greatest Voice in Indian Cinema. The evening not only celebrated the heritage of the Indian Republic but also served as a beacon of cultural brilliance and artistic prowess. The inaugural moments of the event unfolded in the timeless Indian tradition, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and wisdom through the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Standing as custodians of this […]

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

Asian Media USA ©  Chicago IL: The Diwali party presented by Pratibha Jairath and Ashok Potdar was held at Ashyana Banquets and was once again a full house event and a melodious celebration of joy and happiness. Beautifully decorated Ashyana ceilings and jazzy, vibrant colors of the outfits of the audience brought life to a quiet and dreary fall evening. The lamp lighting ceremony included the Guests of Honor and sponsors including Anil and Sweety Loomba, Sunil and Rita Shah, Bhupinder & Anita Beri, Pinky & Dinesh Thakkar, Mayur Ganger and partner Ashok Potdar. Mrs. Rita Sunil Shah recited Shree Sidhivinay prayers beautifully during Lamp lighting. Mr. Sunil Shah presented Diwali Greetings to all. Ms Jairath reminded the audience of the significance of Diwali such as victory of knowledge over ignorance, which turned into her recent initiative, a Not-for-Profit organization ‘Vidya Jyoti’s. She mentioned the accomplishment of being able to help 1015 students thus far. Mr.  Mayur Ganger, who had opened his heart as a great sponsor was presented by Mr. Anil Loomba and Dr. Bhupinder and Anita Beri.  The singing trio Pratibha Jairath, Raju Bankapur, Pradeep Sood kept the audience on their dancing feet throughout the celebration. The program […]