Our Bureau
Chicago, IL
The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) – Chicago, under the dynamic leadership of Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah and President Anu Malhotra, hosted a historic and soul-stirring celebration marking India’s 79th Independence Day at The Matrix Club, Naperville. The event blended patriotic fervor, cultural pride, and unforgettable Bollywood melodies, drawing a capacity crowd of dignitaries, community leaders, and music lovers.
The evening commenced with patriotic quote by Anu Malhotra, who co-emceed alongside Prachi Jaitley followed the Indian and American National Anthems by Dr. Radhika Chimata. Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah was called upon the podium to deliver his key message and he said, “When music and patriotism meet, magic happens. Tonight, entire Chicagoland will witness that magic.”
The energy and enthusiasm just kept rising when the patriotic dance show was done by Shekhar Dance Academy and a mesmerizing performance by Elizar and Team from Shelzar Dance Academy. The crowd rose in unison applauding the creativity and choreography.
The celebration was graced by distinguished guests including Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli, Mayor of Schaumburg Tom Dailly, State Representative Michelle Mussman, Mayor William McLeod, and Alderwoman Shweta Baid (Aurora), lauded the FIA’s cultural leadership and patriotism. Consulate General Somnath Ghosh said, “This celebration showcases the strength of our diaspora and its deep commitment to both India and America.” Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi added, “As we honor India’s independence, we are reminded that freedom and democracy must be protected and cherished by each generation.” Past Presidents of FIA, Vinita Gulabani, Hitesh Gandhi, and Dr Kamal Patel, were called to the podium to share their experiences on how FIA had grown multiple fold over the past years.
As the announcements were made President Anu Malhotra said, “Our Independence Day is not just about remembering the past; it’s about celebrating the bonds we build today for a stronger tomorrow.” Vice Chairman Neil Khot delivered an inspiring message on patriotism and serving the country, setting a heartfelt tone for the night. During formal Awards closing section Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah in his remarks, expressed heartfelt appreciation: “FIA’s mission is to unite our community through culture, service, and celebration. Tonight’s response from the audience shows that our heritage is alive and thriving here in Chicagoland.”
The FIA honored several prominent contributors: JP Khaira (Grand Sponsor), Dr. Umang Patel, Ajeet Singh, Rita Shah & Aashima Washington, Anil Loomba, Krisha Dalal from TanishqUSA, Chintan Patel, Dr. Bharat Barai, Manish and Shailja Gandhi, Pinky Dinesh Thakkar, Mukesh Vasani, Ch. Sahab Singh, Ketu Amin, Anu & Bharat Malhotra, Dr. Bhupinder Beri, Dr. Asha Oroskar & Dr. Anil Oroskar, Brij Sharma, Naresh Shah, Smita Shah, Sona Shah, and the legendary Jatin Pandit himself. The icing on the cake came when President Anu Malhotra Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah and First Lady Rita Shah on stage and announced the special ‘Pillar of Unity and Vision Award’ on behalf of the entire FIA, presented by President Anu Malhotra, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli. The entire audience gave a standing ovation.
The crown jewel was the exclusive live performance by legendary music maestro Jatin Pandit, the man behind Bollywood’s most cherished melodies, accompanied by Raahul Jatin. With timeless hits such as Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se, Pehla Nasha, Jadu Teri Nazar, Ho Gaya Hai Tujhko To Pyar Sajna, Bin Tere Sanam Mar Mitenge Hum, Dekha Teri Mast Nigahon Mein and Ladki Badi Anjani Hai, Jatin Pandit and his amazing ensemble of singers: Raahul Jatin, Khushi, Nauzad, and Avni Singh swept the audience into a wave of nostalgia and joy. Throughout the concert dancing mood filled the air, with couples swaying, and few people pretending they could hit Jatin’s high notes.
Cheers of “Once more!” rang out after almost every song, prompting Jatin Pandit to extend his set well past the scheduled end time. “This is the magic of music, it keeps us together long after the clock says it’s time to go,” said a smiling Sunil Shah from the stage.
From the audience, Atul Wahi (President, United Punjabis of America) praised the evening as “One of the best cultural and musical celebrations in years.” Adding to the vibrancy, Leenna Chauddhury, Dr. Kamal Patel Patel and Altaf Bukhari (Executive VP) danced joyfully throughout the night, setting the floor on fire, embodying the unrestrained celebration of the occasion.
The Vote of Thanks brought its own charm and chuckles, delivered by Nilabh Dubey (Secretary General), Falguni Sukhadia (Joint Secretary), and Kamlesh Kapoor (Joint Secretary), which was wrapped up by Falguni Sukhadia and Kamlesh Kapoor with a grin: ““Special thanks to Jatin Pandit, we are now considering making him the official FIA sleep-deprivation ambassador and we request you all to please go home, so our volunteers can sleep!” The audience erupted in laughter and applause.
Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah summed it up best: “This celebration was more than an event, it was a statement of who we are, what we cherish, and how beautifully we blend our heritage with the community we call home.” He expressed immense pride in the FIA’s Amazing Ambassadors team and extended gratitude to everyone who made the event a resounding success. As President Anu Malhotra closed the event by saying, “It was, the grandest Independence Day celebration Chicagoland has ever seen”.
Whenever there is an event, an audience, media coverage, count on these people to hog the limelight.
Ever seen them honor people outside of their core group? If anything it will be invited politicians or celebraties. No support or acknowledgement of local folks.