CHICAGO, IL (TIP): In the heart of the Windy City, where steel skyscrapers pierce the autumn sky like defiant sentinels, a different kind of light pierced through on October 20, 2025. At Chicago City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle Street, the grand Diwali Festival of Light Reception unfolded like a living tapestry, weaving tradition, triumph, and togetherness. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, in partnership with the Indian American Business Council, hosted a grand Diwali Celebration Reception at City Hall. The event, illuminated by glowing lamps, vibrant hues, and harmonious melodies, affirmed amid global divisions that Diwali’s enduring light prevails over darkness.
The festivities opened with a traditional Lamp Lighting Ceremony, embodying Diwali’s spirit. Ajeet Singh, President of the Indian American Business Council, led the rite, joined by Mayor Johnson; Consul General of India Somnath Ghosh; City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Irvin; Alderwoman Shweta Baid of Aurora; Alderman David Moore; and community leaders Neil Khot, Sunil Shah, Harish Kolasani, Ganesh Kar, Harry Mohan, and Keerthi Ravoori.
The evening escalated into vibrant energy through music and interactive dance, guided by Ajanta Chakraborty and her team, diverging from tradition to foster communal exuberance.
Mayor Johnson with the young performers.
In his address, Mayor Johnson stated, “As long as I’m mayor, we will always host the Diwali celebration at City Hall.” This commitment underscores a vision for a city shaped by immigrants, dreamers, and innovators worldwide. He praised Chicago’s diversity as a global strength and lauded Indian Americans’ contributions to its essence. “Now more than ever, we require peace and joy” to establish Chicago as a beacon of inclusion, prosperity, and dignity.
During the lively dances, Mayor Johnson received dandiya sticks and participated with graceful steps, accompanied by Consul General Somnath Ghosh and other dignitaries.
City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Irvin offered Diwali greetings, declaring, “Diversity is our strength—our superpower.” Addressing the children, she noted, “You embody the world’s goodness.” She acknowledged Consul General Ghosh and Ajeet Singh, concluding, “This builds bridges: today yours, tomorrow mine.”
Consul General of India Somnath Ghosh invoked poetic depth: “Namaste—happy Diwali.” Thanking officials and organizers, he observed, “Diwali’s smallest flame dispels the deepest darkness, delivering peace to turmoil, prosperity to want, and love to hatred.” He urged a return to inner light, reflecting Chicago’s collective humanity.
Ajeet Singh’s welcome address thanked Mayor Johnson for leading four consecutive Diwali events at City Hall, each surpassing the last in excellence. Ajeet Singh added the Indian American community is forever indebted for your generosity in hosting Diwali festivities.
Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Chair of the Indian American Business Council, closed by thanking the mayor for utilizing City Hall’s quadrangle for this grand reception and thanked the Mayor and Consul General of India for exemplifying the spirit of Diwali.
Ajanta Chakraborty excelled as emcee, commended for her energetic poise and articulate command. Ajanta Chakraborty received glowing appreciation for her role as the emcee.
(Photographs and Press release by Asian Media USA)
Vibrant Voices: AMEC’s 14th Annual Gala Unites a Global Community
Colors of Courage: AMEC’s 2025 Gala Honors the Spirit of Togetherness
Suresh Bodiwala
CHICAGO, IL (TIP) : On a warm June evening in Naperville, Illinois, the Yellow Box at 1635 Emerson Ln pulsed with the heartbeat of humanity. The American Multiethnic Commission (AMEC) unfurled its 14th Annual Congressional Global Champions Gala on June 14, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, weaving a vibrant tapestry of 38 ethnic communities into a celebration of unity, culture, and shared dreams. Guided by the indomitable Dr. V J Prabhakar, popularly known as Dr. VGP that sparked 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 with hope and harmony.
Nation comes first. Guests standing for the US National Anthem.
The evening burst into life with “Around the World in 60 Minutes,” a whirlwind of performances that whisked the audience across continents without a passport. Korean American percussionist Chansoo Lee ignited the stage with a thunderous drumroll, setting the tone for a global journey. The Polonia Dance Ensemble spun Poland’s traditions into mesmerizing twirls, while the Ghunguru Dance Group unleashed Bollywood’s dazzling beats. The Chicago Nightingales brought the Philippines’ soulful grace, and Russia’s Kalinka Group stomped with fiery footwork. The Chicago Flying Fairies floated through Chinese culture’s elegance, Mexico’s Ballet Folklórico Quetzalcoatl swirled with vibrant joy, Indonesia’s Consulate Performing Arts radiated exotic splendor, and Chinese traditional dance by Mei Dance Academy stirred hearts with serene artistry. The segment closed with South India’s Mohiniattam by the Bharathanali School of Dance, weaving devotion into every step. As Congressman Raja Krishnamurthy declared, “This is what America looks like. This is the reality we’re taking into the future.”
The power of youth. A captivating dance number
The Gala’s heart lay in its awards, honoring those who embody AMEC’s mission to elevate communities through social justice, education, and cultural diplomacy. Each recipient, draped with a Royal Tanish Silk Scarf or a token from gold sponsors Alok and Krisha Dalal of Tanish Midwest Business Partners, reflected the brilliance of service. Arman Yousefzai, a kindergarten dynamo, earned Outstanding Child of the Year, saying, “Thank you, Dr. VJ, for supporting me.” Brothers Thomas and Charles Tao, ages six and four, were named Child Prodigies for their storytelling across Beijing and Yantai, with Thomas vowing to “make this earth fancy and beautiful.” Ellen Chua, the Outstanding Student, shone for her breast cancer fundraising, humbly noting, “I’m grateful for my family’s support.” Machi Josiah Nelson, Young Sportsman, soared with over 900 basketball points, thanked his coaches for “pushing me to be the best.”
Young performers with the distinguished guests of honor.
Sunil Shah, recipient of the Golden Eagle Award, rallied support for Neil Khot’s congressional bid, saying, “I’m proud of my team.” Sirmukh Singh Manku, Photojournalist of the Year, credited Congressman Davis for Capitol Hill access, while Steven C. Hugh, honored with the President John F. Kennedy Award, championed Asian American unity and announced a fundraiser for Murthy’s Senate campaign. Shanthi Vijay Rajan, awarded the Lily Prabhakar Changemaker Award, reflected, “This honor inspires us to serve our community.” Renato Mariotti, Attorney of the Year, praised the gala for “bringing people together instead of tearing them apart.” Janadhan Rajagopal, Agri Vision Leadership Award winner, empowered women through seaweed farming, and Delorse C. Morrison, Outstanding Senior Citizen at nearly 90, earned a standing ovation, simply saying, “We love you.”
Manish Gandhi, Business Leadership Award recipient, advised, “Stay focused, work hard, and give back to society,” dedicating his honor to Air India crash victims. Jeff Wang, Outstanding Community Activist, transformed law into access, noting, “Small actions make a huge impact.” Nagarjuna Malempati, Innovator of the Year, shared his fintech vision: “A global platform with no borders.” Lufti Syed Hassan, Lifetime Achievement Award winner, urged AMEC to expand, saying, “Houston will follow through.” Pastor Steve Munsey, Man of the Year, called Dr. VJ “the greatest showman,” adding, “Thank God for our freedom.” Elizabeth Ru Jia, Woman of the Year, declared, “Diversity transforms, like art turns ordinary into extraordinary.” Rohini Singh, Young Woman of the Year, quipped, “My daughter thought they made a mistake calling me young!” Yesoe Yoon, Mir Ali Ethnic Singer of the Year was thrilled to be recognized, Naveenchandra Karna, Volunteer of the Year, honored all the volunteers, and Paul H Luu, Civic Leadership Award winner, accepted on behalf of 600 employees. The Bharatiya Senior Citizens of Chicago, Organization of the Year, united 1,600 members under Haribhai Patel’s leadership.
Time to recognize and honor distinguished personalities .
The stage blazed with a Whitney Houston tribute by Sherry Withers, belting “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” and a powerful fashion show by the Prosthetic Foundation of America, led by Vikram Choudhary, showcased resilience through models like Ali and Jerry Herardo. Chris noted, “This is a tribute to strength and confidence.” The grand finale dance competition saw nine teams vie for glory, with Sridevi Pandalai’s Ghunguru team winning for its “total package performance,” as judge Hardik Rawat from India praised their “dance concept, formations, and tricks.”
Dignitaries amplified the evening’s impact. Congressman Danny K. Davis called it “a radiant celebration of humanity’s finest colors.” Congressman Jonathan Jackson saw “God’s magnificent rainbow,” while LaShawn K. Ford dubbed it “medicine for the soul.” Raja Krishna Murthy inspired, “You make me proud to be the best congressman I can be.” Chinese Ambassador Wang Boddong emphasized, “We count on everyone to fight for common interests.” India’s Consul General Somnath Ghosh’s message, read by Katherine Thorat, highlighted the Indian diaspora’s role in driving bilateral trade toward $5,000 billion by 2030.
Tanishq Midwest Business Partners, led by Alok and Krisha Dalal, elevated the event with raffles and tokens. Krisha shared, “Jewelry creates joy and cherished memories.” The gala closed with a call to continue AMEC’s mission, as Dr. VJ Prabhakar’s team and volunteers, including stage managers and curator Seeta Bala, made the night seamless.
Editorial notes by Mr. Suresh Bodiwala Chairman of Asian Media USA: The AMEC Gala was a vibrant mosaic of cultures, a reminder that unity is our strength. Dr. VJ Prabhakar and Congressman Danny K. Davis have crafted a legacy where every voice shines, from young Arman to wise Delorse. This night proved that together, we build a brighter, bolder future.
(Photographs and Press release by Asian Media USA)
CHICAGO, IL (TIP): 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, State Representative 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 Bhanot, and Dr. Bhupinder Beri. Scott Wehrli spoke about why Naperville gets constantly ranked as the number one city to live in the USA and the contributions of the Indian diaspora in building Naperville into a great city. Larry Herman very well-articulated the fun involved in applying the colors to each, bringing us all together as part of one family. Michelle Mussman, who was attending the Holi festivities with FIA for the eighth time, spoke about how FIA brings the west and east together and truly proves there is unity in diversity. Shweta Baid spoke about the vibrant Indian community and the welcoming nature that ensures smooth integration, wherever they live. CG Somnath Ghosh spoke about how the Indian diaspora brings vibrancy and economic development to wherever they live. He also spoke about the world’s great democracy, starting the election for the new government, where 1.4 billion people will decide their representatives. The transition of applying colors to the forehead was done by Chairman Sunil Shah and Pratibha Jairath to all the dignitaries. Specially made Holi T-shirts were gifted to all the dignitaries. Thanks to our sponsors, Ghoman Group (Mariott) and Naresh Shah (Rely Care Services).
This was followed by the cultural program. The mic was handed to Richa Chand, the emcee for the entertainment segment. Culturals were kicked off by Jitendra Bulasara and Shaila Khedkar, singing patriotic and special Holi songs. We had great performances from many dance schools: Prerna, Kabita, Trusha (Pika Munshi), Bollywood Beatz (Anita Rotiwar), and Suhani Dance Academy (Falguni Rana). The surprise was an amazing dance performance by our very own FIA directors, Falguni Rana, Dolly Bansal, Sonika Khandelwal, Sanskriti Sharma, and Falguni Sukhadia. This was followed by amazing Garbha singing by Jigna Pathak and Jitendra Bulsara. All the dignitaries could not resist joining the dance when the Garbha team sang ‘Dholida Pankhida’ hit songs and hundreds of people from the audience jumped in. The cultural were brought to an end by another surprise when Richa Chand and Nilabh Dubey called on stage Chairman Sunil Shah and Executive Director Rita Shah to sing a foot-tapping duet. The dancing continued with greater fervor and full josh.
The last segment of the program was the actual playing of colors, which was done outside in the open. On the way, as we moved from indoors to outdoors, Vandana Jhingan, representing the press and media in Chicagoland, interviewed CG Somnath Ghosh and Founder Chairman Sunil Shah for the TV News segment. CG Somnath Ghosh spoke eloquently to the press about how FIA is at the forefront of bringing Indian culture to the USA.
The surprises did not end here. Anu Malhotra (Executive Vice President) prepared Thandai (a special milk and dry fruit-based drink) for all the folks who joined the Holi. Dinesh Kapoor, Anu Khetarpal, Smitesh Shah, and Hemendra Shah ensured everyone got the Indian snacks and a special Holi T-shirt before the folks went out to play Holi. The impeccable stage and the outside set-up were done by Neelam Jai. Suresh Bodiwala from Asian Media ensured each memory was well captured on his camera.
The color play of Holi kicked off with Sunil Shah, Pratibha Jairath, Vinita Gulabani, and Sudhir Agrawal blasting the colors 25 feet up in the air. DJ and the Dhol team revved up the spirits with their music, and thanks to Pratibha Jairath for sponsoring the colors, which were free for all the 600 people who joined the sweet celebrations. It was such a colorful moment; amidst the chaos of colors, there were countless moments of joy and camaraderie. FIA thanks and truly appreciates all its attendees, esteemed guests, sponsors, supporters, and media partners for their unwavering support and trust in FIA. The question remained in everyone’s mind: ‘What next from FIA, Chicago!!’
(Photographs and Press release by: Asian Media USA/ Press release by: Nilabh Dubey, FIA General Secretary)
NEW YORK (TIP): Anil Bansal, Past President of FIA, a successful serial entrepreneur, ambassador and promoter of Indian arts and culture, and a great humanitarian, was felicitated as The South Asian Times Person of the Year (POY) 2022 at the Consulate of India here on January 21. The event was oversubscribed with the presence of who is who of the Indian diaspora of the New York metro area.
At the graceful event, immediate past Person of the Year Mohan Wanchoo presented a shawl and Consul General Randhir Jaiswal presented the crystal plaque honoring Anil Bansal POY-2022 on behalf of Forsythe Media Group. Joining in the presentation were Kamlesh C Mehta (Chairman, Forsythe Media), Ankur Vaidya (Chairman, FIA), Dr Nirmal Mattoo (Chairman, IAAC), Chintu Patel (CEO, Amneal Pharmaceuticals), and Haridas Kotahwala (Chairman, Navika group). Mrs. Nimmi Mehta presented a floral bouquet to Mrs. Kumud Bansal.
As a surprise but memorable moment of the evening came when on request of FIA, Consul General Jaiswal presented to Bansal the Pravasi Bharatiya Medal conferred on FIA, which was honored by the Indian government for its commendable service in India and the US during Covid during Bansal’s presidency. Noticeably, Anil Bansal was president of FIA during the peak of COVID-19, and he was instrumental in sending over $50 Million worth of aid from FIA to India during the pandemic.
Speaker after speaker praised the publication and Bansal’s accomplishments and services to the community and society. Kamlesh Mehta highlighted Bansal’s humility and selflessness, mentioning that it was hard to convince him to accept POY honor. Ankur Vaidya spoke on behalf of FIA (Federation of Indian Associations – NY-NY-CT-NE) and Rakesh Kaul and Dr Mattoo for IAAC (Indo-American Arts Council). POY Bansal has supported both organizations for decades.
Bansal’s extended family, friends and colleagues were present in full strength at the event. His son, Avin Bansal, CFO and investor, and daughter Neha Hannan, a lawyer, expressed their love and admiration for him. Nephew Dr Sharad Sahu, an internist, shared some family anecdotes involving Anil Bansal.
Anil Bansal in his acceptance speech expressed gratitude for the honor and went on to share his life experiences. He concluded by sharing the life lesson of ‘giving back’: “I and Kumud felt that we have enough financial resources for the rest of our lives for what we want to do and how we want to live.”
The newspaper featuring Anil Bansal as POY 2022 was also launched at the event by the Consul General. Copies of the issue were distributed to the attendees and coffee mugs gifted by alotusinthemug.com web magazine.
Consul General Randhir Jaiswal presented PBD medal to Anil Bansal. The Indian government conferred PBD Samman award on FIA for 2020 when Bansal was its president.
The South Asian Times could not formally felicitate Mohan Wanchoo, POY 2021 because of Covid, so he was honored with a shawl by Kamlesh Mehta and crystal plaque by Haridas Kotahwala. Other past POYs who were honored and who spoke at the event included Chintu Patel (2017), Haridas Kotahwala (Navika – TSAT Organization of the Year 2018), and Ankur Vaidya (FIA was Organization of the Year 2015 during his presidency). Pam Kwatra, a renowned community leader, Shailesh ‘Sam’ Jain, Chairman of Cheapoair, and prominent community leaders Karamjit Singh Dhaliwal, Jasbir Jay Singh, Alok Kumar Dr. Avinash Gupta, Rajeev Kaul, Sunil Shah, Saurin Parikh, and Sujata Seth were among the attendees.
The event was emceed by the famous Bollywood & Hollywood actor Prashantt Guptha.
A sumptuous vegetarian dinner created by Michelin Star decorated chef Hemant Mathur was served.
The proceedings of the event were supported by Eric Kumar, Totee Wadhwa, Nicky Jagda and Parveen Chopra. Chopra’s wellness and spirituality website, alotusinthemud.com was launched after the felicitation.
Acknowledging felicitations from dignitaries, friends and family, Anil Bansal shared lessons from his own life with the audience.Kumud and Anil Bansal posing with son Avin and daughter Neha’s families.
CHICAGO, IL (TIP): Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) organized its Annual Board Meeting and Diwali Celebration on November 13th at Big Suchir Restaurant, Downers Grove IL. The meeting was attended by the 100 strong FIA team as well as the advisory board members.
FIA TEAM 2023 will be spearheaded by Incoming President Vinita Gulabani strongly supported by 100+ members (each one a leader) composed of Executive Board Members, Directors & Advisory Board Members. The event was presided by Chairman Sunil Shah and Founding Members Neil Khot, Mukesh Shah, Dhitu Bhagwakar and Current President Hitesh Gandhi.
Richa Chand, General Secretary, outlined the achievements of the FIA in the year 2022 and thanked the team for its efforts. She then asked Founder President and Chairman Sunil Shah to address the gathering. Founder President Sunil Shah took the stage and outlined the successes behind the year 2022, listing the events conducted by the FIA and its team – The Republic Day Celebration, The Partnership with the Chicago Bulls – India Heritage Night, The Holi Celebration, Mother Day Celebration, International Yoga Day and the biggest FIA event to date – Celebration of the 75th India Independence Day with a concert with Javid Ali a prominent singer from Bollywood. He thanked the outgoing team for its hard work in putting together and conducting various India centric and Charitable events during the year. He also took the opportunity to welcome new members to team FIA. Current President Hitesh Gandhi took the stage thanking the founding board, and the team 2022 for all the work put in to make the year a resounding success.
Founding Members Neil Khot, Mukesh Shah, Dhitu Bhagwakar took the stage thanking team 2022 and praising the work of the team in making the year a flashy success.
Former Vice President of FIA Mrs. Rita Shah congratulated President Hitesh Gandhi and his team for the outstanding year and welcomed Vinita Gulabani as the incoming President. She felicitated Executive Vice President Shital Daftari, Director Ganesh Kar, General Secretary Richa Chand, and Treasurer Vaishal Talati for their achievements & dedication.
Sunil Shah Founder President [Chairman] then announced the Team 2023
Founder President: Onkar Sangha, Ditu Bhagwakar, Neil Khot
New advisory board: Deepakkant Vyas, Anil Loomba of HMSI, Suresh Bodiwala of Asian Media Broadcasting, Yogi Bhardwaj, Vinoz Chanamolu, Nag Jaiswal, Jasbir Suga, Syed Hussaini, Manish Gandhi, Brij Sharma (Power Volt), Asha Oroskar (Orochem), , Amarbir Singh Ghoman, Pradeep Shukla (CPA) and Neal Patel (MedStar), Pinky Thakkar, Sanhita Agnihotri, Ajeet Singh, Aishwarya Sharma and Keerthi Reevori, Usha Kumaria, Anuja Gupta
FIA Chicago was founded to bring Cultural awareness to the Chicago land area and has now grown to serve the community by hosting many events for the community and helping the community grow and become one. FIA Chicago plans to take on projects like Job Fair, Entrepreneurship camps and Youth Leadership Development Skill Camps.
(Photograph by Asian Media USA ; Press release by Staff writer)
CHICAGO, IL (TIP): FIAFounder President Sunil Shah has been conferred the title of the Chairman of the FIA Board in recognition of his services to the organization.
The meeting was a significant one, not just because it was the first meeting under the leadership of President Hitesh Gandhi, but it also marked a new beginning for the entire Team FIA, as it passed a long pending motion, and unanimously appointed Sunil Shah as FIA Chairman.
(Based on a Press release by FIA)
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