Our Bureau
Chicago, IL
On Sunday April 13, 2025, that felt like homecoming. A day when the winds carried the fragrance of Sindh, the walls echoed with “Jai Jhulelal” rhythm with the dhol. The Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago (SAMC) hosted an awe-inspiring, spiritually uplifting Cheti Chand 2025 celebration at Ashyana Banquets. From sacred rituals to joyous dances, the evening was a tribute to the undying spirit of Sindhiyat faith, food, festivity, and family.
The Behrana Sahib and a soul-stirring Arti led by Mrs. Devika, whose voice reverberated with devotion, brought tears in many eyes. Devotees swayed and sang, invoking Jhulelal Sain, the Ishta Dev of Sindhis, the protector, the healer, the unifier. The Jhulelal Juloos (procession) was nothing short of divine. Women in bright Sindhi Ajrak and men in traditional Sindhi topis danced in circles, carrying the Behrana Sahib on their shoulders, celebrating Cheti Chand, the Sindhi New Year, with utmost reverence. The immersion ritual was performed with deep devotion, followed by distribution of prasad.
This unforgettable celebration was planned by President Vinita Gulabani and visionary leader Subhash Balaney, with a team of dedicated volunteers. It was Vinita Gulabani’s fifth year celebrating the festival of “Jai Jhulelal” at such a grand scale. Her commitment to Sindhiyat, her community-first mindset, and Subhashji’s wisdom and clarity made this a celebration not just of tradition but of unity, as explained by Anil Punjwani.
A heartfelt shoot-out to Dr. Gita Rupani, who lovingly set up the pooja space with such elegance and sanctity that many said it reminded them of their homes in Sindh. From the shimmering diyas to the meticulously prepared offerings, every detail was perfect. “It felt like my childhood temple in Larkana,” confided Sudhir Raheja standing still with moist eyes in front of Jhulelal Sain’s statue.
A heartfelt moment came when chief guest, Consul General of India, Mr. Somnath Ghosh, addressed the gathering, calling Sindhis the bearers of one of the oldest living civilizations. He spoke about the annual Sindhi Conference in Ladakh, where the Government of India honors Sindhi contributions to the world heritage. His words were met with thunderous applause.
MCs Ria Matta and Henna Ballaney charmed the crowd with warmth and wit, effortlessly tying the evening together. The cultural segment sparkled with vibrant dance performances, in which men led by Vikas Kalwani, and women led by Vinita Gulabani herself along with the leadership team made Cheti Chand 2025 a mega success.
As Swapnil Sahu and Rinki Talati took the stage, their voices, both playful and soulful, kept the dance floor packed. Swapnil’s peppy numbers blended perfectly with Rinki’s traditional tunes, this is Sindh!” exclaimed beaming Kavita Vanjani. The key roles for preserving and celebrating Sindhi heritage at SAMC Board was led by; President: Vinita Gulabani, Vice President: Puja Jiandani, Secretary: Subhash Balaney, Joint Secretary: Raj Khatri, Treasurer: Nand Belani, Joint Treasurer: Sanjay Wadhwani, Auditor: Kenny Gurnani, Public Relations Officer: Prakash Chatwani, Program Coordinators: Ria Matta, Ramya Jhaveri, Manisha Ballaney, Gita Rupani, Volunteer: Haresh Harpalani
This celebration would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors who were with us throughout the event: Sunil Shah (New York Life), SSS. Entertainment, Warenium Nedia Management (Media Partners), Splendor Celebrations (Anjali Raheja), Pinky and Dinesh Thakkar, Mindful Meditation Yoga (Anu Malhotra), Crossroads Animal Hospital (Dr. Bhupinder Beri), US Bank (Anil Punjwani), VK Financials (Vikas Kalwani), Vinni’s Salon & Spa (Vinita Gulabani), Trinity Financials, Port of Peri Peri, Vidya Jyoti (Pratibha Jairath), Remax Real Estate (Jesse Singh).
Formed in 1965, the Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago (SAMC) is a beacon of Sindhi culture in the US. SAMC promotes Sindhiyat, unity, spirituality, and cultural heritage. It connects generations through community events and fosters pride in Sindhi roots, ensuring that traditions are passed down to future generations. For more details visit the website of Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago, for bringing the Sindhi community closer.
