Category: Press releases

Edison, NJ: The annual general body meeting of the Federation of Indian Associations (Tri-State) was held on Saturday, December 22nd 2012 at TV Asia Auditorium, Edison, NJ. The Agenda includes the overall performance and activities of FIA during the year 2012 including its financial report as well as the announcement of the newly Elected Executive Committee for the upcoming year of 2013. Kanubhai Chauhan, the reigning President of FIA presided over the meeting accompanied by his executive Committee of 2011 namely, Sanjay Amin (Vice President), Srujal Parikh (General Secretary) & Haresh Shah (Jt. Secretary). Mr. Chauhan welcomed all attendees in the meeting, which included Board of Trustees (BOT), Board of Directors and the 2012 Committee members and complimented the work of the executive committee and the committee along with thanking his supporters and sponsors for their generosity shown during his term. He provided highlights of major events in a chronological order starting from the Republic Day Celebration in the form of the Children Dance Competition ‘Dance Pe Chance’ which was followed by the Curtain Raiser traditionally held at the Indian Consulate (courtesy of the Indian Consulate General Shri Prabhu Dayal & his Staff) jump starting the 32d India Day Parade […]

Palatine, IL: Sikh Religious Society (SRS) of Palatine Illinois held a Neighborhood Community Interfaith Candle Light Vigil and prayers on December 19, to honor the 20 first grade children and 6 adults killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown Connecticut on December 14 2012. The vigil was arranged to share the grief and in conjunction with funerals of the child victims that had begun to take place in Newtown CT that week. The terrible tragedy took place when a 20 year old Adam Lanza forced his way into the elementary school with his assault weapons and started shooting to kill children and teachers. Heroic teachers like Victoria Soto, 27, gave her life to save the lives of her class whom she hid in the closets and bath room. The school principal and psychologist jumped on the gunman to stop him and sacrificed their own lives. More than a hundred community members and neighbors assembled in the Palatine Gurdwara compound, chanted prayers, and lit candles in memory of the deceased. A special prayer “Ardaas” was supplicated by Bhai Gurjant Singh to pray for the departed souls and their families, and to seek peace, harmony, and love in this world which […]

Chino Hills LA: Calling it a tribute to the community, Assemblyman Curt Hagman along with Sadguru Pujya Kothari Swami (Pujya Bhaktipriya Swami) – one of the most senior Swami of BAPS, State Senator Bob Huff, Mayor Peter Rogers, Councilmember Art Bennett and Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami, the head of Kauai’s Hindu Monastery and publisher of Hinduism Today magazine, inaugurated the majestic traditional stone and marble BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills (Los Angeles), California on December 23, 2012. After six years of unflinching dedication and thousands of hours of volunteer work, the Mandir stood glistening under the sun as the much anticipated inauguration ceremony started on the morning of December 23rd. Sadguru Pujya Kothari Swami (Pujya Bhaktipriya Swami) performed the consecration ceremony in accordance with Hindu vedic rituals to infuse divinity into the sacred images inside the Mandir in the presence of devotees and well-wishers from across North America and various countries around the world. Those who could not make it to the event saw the live webcast. Speaking on the occasion, Mayor Rogers said “The Mandir is a beautiful testament to the hard work of your congregation who has spent several years to build this place of worship.” He […]

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. […]

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, […]

Chicago IL: Chicago took the initiative to fight against hunger in our Chicago community by supporting the Greater Chicago Food Depository through the JK YOG Food Drive. The food Drive was inaugurated by our Respected Dear Swami Mukundananda Ji on Oct 20, 2012 during Chicago Spiritual Retreat, Rolling Meadows, IL. We had set up a Target of 10,000 Meals during this holiday season. In 15 days we were able to exceed our target. It wasn’t fate, and it wasn’t an accident – it was each of the devotees coming forward to fight the cause and taking responsibility to give it back to the community. It is indeed a great effort and It is the clearest proof yet that, we can achieve, what we put our mind and effort into. We thank Swami Ji for showing us the direction and thank each and every devotee who walked the path. We have a great partnership with Chicago Food Depository and we look forward to t he future. About J K Yog: J K Yog is a part of the worldwide mission of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj and managed by Swami Mukundanand Ji and has been established to serve humankind with the true […]

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 […]

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 […]

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: Chappan (56) Bhog on 18th Nov marked the culmination of Diwali celebrations in Hari Om Temple. Just after the Fund Raising Dinner on Oct 13th, the preparations started for Navratre. Two Chowkis were held. First one was on Nov.16th by Bunty Bawa ji. Bunty Bawa ji came from California for this special Chowki on first Navratre. Despite being a weekday lot of devotees turned up. It was well attended. This was followed by a second Jagran on Oct 20th. For this Asha Khanna ji flew in from New York. Hundreds of devotees turned up to offer prayers. Specia arrangements were done for the traditional Vrat food. Raas Garba also started from the first day of Navratre. They were well attended. During the Navratras every evening, the basement hall was filled with young and old, men and women…all dressed up in traditional ghagra-choli outfits, kurta-pyjamas, with the garba sticks in hand, waited anxiously for the DJ to start music. The same mood and excitment was visible on special Garba on Shard Purnima. Then came Karva Chauth. Like every year, “Karva Chauth” was celebrated in a big way! Hundreds of Brides, Brides-to-be, young and old ladies dressed in their best […]

Chicago IL: Honorable Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, was officially sworn into office by Chief Judge Timothy Evans on December 3, 2012 at the Richard J. Daley Center. This will make Clerk Brown the longest serving Clerk of Circuit Court in the history of Cook County. In turn, Clerk Brown gave the official oath of office to members of her Executive and Senior Staffs and other employees at the morning program. All employees of the Office of the Clerk of Court were deputized. In her remarks, Clerk Brown said, “The Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court plays a vital role in the legal system as the official keeper of the records of all judicial matters brought into the court system, and by maintaining these records in an unbiased safe and secure manner and we help to ensure equal justice for all.” Clerk Brown hosted an Inaugural Celebration where Cook County Board President ,Toni Preckwinkle gave a brief speech and a host of dignitaries participated which included Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Former Cook County Board President Bobbie Steele , Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans , Elder Jeffrey Hodges Pastor King of Glory […]

Bright lights, fireworks, colors, and delicacies, what can all these words represent? These are the words that signify one of the most renowned Hindu festivals, Diwali, or the “Festival of Lights”. This festival is celebrated by Hindus all around the world and symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. Diwali is the last day of the Hindu calendar and is followed by New Year celebrations. This year’s Diwali festival was celebrated with great devotion at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan across North America. Devotees gathered at the Mandir on Diwali Day with family and friends to participate in the Chopda Pujan, a special ceremony for business owners to receive blessings for the upcoming New Year. This is traditionally the day when business owners close their existing account books for the year and open new ones in preparation for the upcoming year. Through chanting Vedic hymns and prayers, hundreds of ledgers were blessed during the ceremony. On the New Year Day, devotees gathered early in the morning to offer their prayers on the first day of the New Year. Devotees graciously greeted each other and spread wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year. All were dressed in […]

Chicago IL: Nov 18, 2012- Indian community organized a dinner party in honor of the Democrats who won during the recent election. The Indo-American Democratic Organization convened the event. The dinner was attended by 500 guests who were supporters of the organization. In addition to the honorable guests, there were also statewide, countywide, local & elected officials present. The dinner had a 3 course cuisine which was provided by Host Committee Holiday Inn. The event was celebrated with classical music. The event organizer was Balvinder Singh who is a Chair person for President Obama’s campaign Organization of America, Devon ave, Chicago . Mehbub Kapadia MD was supporter of campaign. The guest speaker was Indian Consulate General Ms. Mukta Tomar. Democrat Winner Bill Foster gave a speech commenting on the great work the Indian community did for the Nation. Sen. Ira Silverstein was the honorable speaker. Other prominent politicians that spoke at the event included Congresswomen Jan Schakowsky, Rep. Brad Schneider, Congressman Danny Davis, Alderman Debra Silverstein, Rep. Lou Lang, Alderman Joe Moore,and many more. Volunteers supported the Obama Organization extensively and National Democratic Organization. Volunteers made calls in phone banks and canvassed in many cities and communities. The volunteers included […]

Chicago IL: Harinder Pal Singh President and C.E.O. of Management and Information Technology Solutions, Inc. (M.I.T.S.) was honored by Asian Chronicle USA TV Channel Program with the Asian American Humanitarian Award 2012. The award ceremony took place on November 18, 2012 at a dinner banquet at Sheraton Four Points Hotel, in Schiller Park, Illinois where more than 250 guests mostly Asian Americans of Chicago attended the event. The program included musical entertainment. Harinder Pal Singh was cited by the executive producer Lourdes Mon to be a benefactor of the Center for Elderly Care, a non-profit institution in Amritsar Punjab India, where thousands of needy elderly have received free medical care and other help over the years. Mr. Singh is an educator and a mentor who has helped hundreds of laid off and unemployed Asian American Professionals in Metropolitan Chicago area. He re-trains them by imparting new marketable skills and helps them get employed to be able to make a living again in tough economic times. His company M.I.T.S. is a premier training and consulting company in Project Management, Information Technology and Medical Informatics, with three locations Schaumburg, Oakbrook, and Gurnee Illinois. The Asian Humanitarian Award is given annually by the […]

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: On Sunday November 25, 2012, the American Association of Radiologists of Indian Origin (AARI) held its annual meeting and dinner at Gaylord India Restaurant located at 100 E. Walton Street in the heart of downtown Chicago. Over 150 radiologists from America and abroad attended the event. AARI Mission is to provide support and information helpful to the needs of American radiologists of Indian origin and to function as a venue for charitable, educational, cultural and networking activities, for members to share common ideas and discuss mutual concerns. AARI started in 1975 and functions as a venue for charitable, educational and cultural activities. Furthermore, it creates a forum that allows members to share common ideas and discuss mutual concerns. Keynote Speaker, Dr. Swaminathan, who is Past President of Illinois State Medical Society highlighted the future of Radiology and new sweeping changes coming to the Medical field in view of Obama’s re-election. Larger share of health care budget will be consumed by changes taking effect in Obama care. This will increase Medicaid enrollment amounting up to 50% of healthcare budgets. Due to low rate of re-imbursement by Medicaid and to decrease the overhead, trend will continue towards decreasing independent practitioners […]

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: 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: Holiday Inn presented ‘The South Asian Bridal Expo 2012 from 11:00am to 5:00 pm on Sunday, November 11, 2012 at Holiday Inn, 3405 Algonquin Road, Rolling Meadows, IL. Bridal Expo started with “Dholmastersherlock” Shirish Shah from Chicago and his Troupe of brightly adorned dancers that practically danced on air, mesmerizing the crowd around. If you looked closely you could see the music infiltrating into the audience and a few shoulders actually bouncing to the beat! Top Vendors specializing in Jewelry, Boutiques, Mandaps, Hair and Makeup Artists, Décor and Floral, Gift Favors, Photographers/Videographers, Invitations, DJs, Wedding Planners, Hotels, Caterers and Graceful Equines which provides white mare for the groom to ride during the Baraat ceremony participated in this event. Public and Vendors came from near and far to attend this year’s expo whose back-drop seemed like a getaway well worth the travel. The event took place at the Holiday Inn Express of Rolling Meadows, with its island inspired banquet hall, taking us from the windy city to a Goan retreat. The Fashion show was a two part extravaganza featuring two distinct designers. Trusha Mehta of “Palkhi” dominated the first half with her large array of glamorous, and very much […]

Chicago IL: Bright lights, fireworks, colors, and delicacies, what can all these words represent? These are the words that signify one of the most renowned Hindu festivals, Diwali, or the “Festival of Lights”. This festival is celebrated by Hindus all around the world and symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. Diwali is the last day of the Hindu calendar and is followed by New Year celebrations. This year’s Diwali festival was celebrated with great devotion at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett, IL. On November 13th, devotees gathered at the Mandir with family and friends to participate in the Chopda Pujan, a special ceremony for business owners to receive blessings for the upcoming New Year. This is traditionally the day when business owners close their existing account books for the year and open new ones in preparation for the upcoming year. Through chanting Vedic hymns and prayers, hundreds of ledgers were blessed during the ceremony. On November 14th, devotees gathered early in the morning to offer their prayers on the first day of the New Year. They graciously greeted each other and spread wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year. All were dressed […]