FIA-Chicago celebrates Mother’s Day

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The Federation of Indian Associations Chicago (FIA), a registered non-profit organization, recently celebrated Mother’s Day. The event was also to kick-off for the organization’s flagship event, India’s Independence Day, scheduled for Aug. 12, 2023, a press release from FIA-Chicago said.

Nilabh Dubey and Sonia Luthar emceed the event, starting with  extolling the virtues of a mother in one’s life.

Founder President and Chairman Sunil Shah and spouse Rita Shah recognized honorees. Sunil Shah led a moment of silence for Veerinderjeet Sanga, the wife of Founder and Past President Onkar Sanga who passed away on May 2, 2023.

Rita Shah performed a song dedicated to mothers to start the proceedings.

High-profile attendees included Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Illinois; Oakbrook President Gopal Lalmalani; Oakbrook President-elect Larry Herman; and Oakbrook Trustee Suresh Reddy, and other distinguished guests.

Current President of The FIA Vinita Gulabani, welcomed attendees, outlined the achievements of the organization accompanied by a video, and provided information on FIA’s Independence Day Gala. celebrating India’s Independence Day to be held on on the 12^th of August 2023 at the Matrix Club.

Past Presidents Neil Khot, Hitesh Gandhi and advisory board member Ajeet Singh spoke about the Aug. 12 event, putting forward the different sponsorship packages and benefits each package had for the attendees to consider.

Mandi Theatre presented their play Panchlait, directed by Varsha Visal. The play is set in rural backdrop that tells a story of a village community Mahato Tola that still does not have electricity.

Then came time to honor the mothers for their contribution to society and the immense work they put into holding the fort in their homes. The emcees Swati Kukian and Kavita Rao took to the stage and invited the mothers that were celebrated and honored at the event – Aishwarya Sharma, Alka Sharma, Anita Beri, Vijay Sharma, Harsha Shukla, Nipa Shah,  Ranjana Bhargava, Rita Singh, Shital Daftari, Sona Shah, Urmilla Chawla, Usha Kartan, Chanchal Jhingan, Harsha Bhagwakar and Dimple Gandhi, who each received a plaque.

The FIA also honored Additional Director General Police, Haryana O.P. Singh, author of three books and recipient of  Indian President Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2009 and Indian President Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2015.

Shital Daftari presented the vote of thanks.

The guests were entertained by Charles Antony with foot tapping English and Hindi songs. Jigar’s Kitchen supplied the delicious dinner.