Chicago-based Indo-American Veterans Organization hosts 1st anniversary gala

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The Indo-American Veterans Organization (IAVO) which was established a year ago held its one year gala as a charity event on Veteran’s Day November 11, 2021, at the Stonegate Banquet & Conference, Hoffman Estates, IL.

The organization is dedicated to honoring Indian-American Veterans of the United States Military, a press release from IAVO said.

The program was conducted by Masters of the Ceremony Usha Kamaria (Member, Board of Directors) and co-host Richa Chand. The Indian national anthem was followed by four  United States Army Soldiers carrying the U.S. Army flag, as well as the American Flag.  The American national anthem was performed.

In attendance, were various, sponsors, donors, and special guests including Shalabh “Shalli” Kumar (Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker), India’s Consul General Somnath Ghosh (Guest of Honor), Aurora, Ill. Alderwoman Shweta Baid, Bhailal Patel of Parikh Worldwide Media, and Indian-American veterans.

Founder, Chairman & President of IAVO Chris Aryan, a veteran welcomed the guests and gave a brief talk about the organization, which he said is not funded by the Federal Government or the Congress.  The 501-c-3, non-profit charitable organization operates on donations, he said.

Aryan is a veteran of two branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Air Force and Army.

Consul General Ghosh, in his speech congratulated Aryan for founding IAVO, adding that it would further strengthen the India-USA relationship, knowing we have Indian-Americans, who have and currently are serving in the United States Armed Forces.   He offered full support to advance the goals and causes of IAVO.

Chief Guest Shalabh Kumar, businessman and Republican political activist, dwelt on the meaning of the national anthem, the importance of freedom and why it should not be taken for granted, specifically, to give honor and respect, to those who have served/fought for everyone’s right to have a freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of choice, and freedom to live free and happy, the press release quoted him saying. He encouraged IAVO to continue growing.

The Entertainment segment of the program included Ballroom Dance performances from the World Champions, teachers, and instructors. Harvest Moon Ball (Peter Minkov & Partner), North Shore Dance Society of Glencoe (Aleksander Bonev & Partner), and performers Paul Garbarz & Kristi Frank. A Hispanic Ethnic Cultural Dance group, as well as classical Indian Kathak dances were also part of the program.

All long list of individuals who were sponsors and donors were recognized with a special commemorative plaque.

Also, a special mention and a plaque was presented to DJ BIG NC – Neil Chokshi. Volunteers were thanked and recognized.

The evening included a buffet dinner with DJ Big NC playing the top 100 Bollywood mixes.