Gala of Federation of Indian Associations-Chicago honors mothers and unveils Star Awards

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On May 19, 2024, the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), Chicago and Desi Junction celebrated Mother’s Day at Ashyana Banquets, where the unveiling of the upcoming Star Awards was also took place.

Jassi Parmar and Desi Junction Team conceptualized and managed the event.

A Social Hour kicked off the event, which featured a performance by Payel Ganguly & Group focusing on Bollywood songs about motherhood and families

Chairman and Founder of FIA, Sunil Shah, Vice-Chairman, Neil Khot, President Pratibha Jairath and past President Vinita Gulabani came on stage to begin the program. Shah spoke about the past achievements of FIA; the current President Jairath spoke of Mother’s Day celebration and Vice Chairman Neil Khot pumped up the excitement with teasers about the surprises to be unveiled. Past President Vinita Gulabani dwelt on the inner workings of FIA and its contributions to the community.

Chief guests Consul General of India Somnath Ghosh as well as Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi spoke about the role mothers play in shaping not only the families but also the society and how we all become better citizens, a press release from FIA Chicago said.

Shah regaled the audience with anecdotes of FIA’s journey. Jairath championed the spirit of Mother’s Day celebration. Khot raised the crowd’s anticipation with hints about the surprises awaiting. Gulabani talked of the organization’s profound impact on the in Chicagoland and its commitment to serve the community.

The organization’s prestigious “Star Awards” trophy, symbolizing excellence and achievement within the community, was unveiled by the chief guests. FIA announced the categories for these awards, including Entrepreneur of the Decade, Best Medical Professional, Best Community Organization, and Community Leader of the Year etc.

FIA Ambassadors for the evening, Falguni Sukhadia, Priyanka Parekh, and Hemendra Shah, managed the awards presentations ensuring a seamless flow of events and controlled the backstage operations.

Accomplished mothers were celebrated for their sacrifices and devotion. Awardees, included Anandita Ghosh, Riya Krishnamoorthi, Santosh Kumar, Smita N. Shah, Sweety Loomba, Dr. Kruti Vyas, Punima Brahmbhatt, Kanan Dhingra, Aishwarya Sharma, Jaspreet Kaur, Promila Kumar, Mini Multani, Dr. Sunita Narang, Milli Jain, Asha Raj Khanna, Smita Shah, Sukhi Singh, and Kelly Suga.

Sunil Shah’s wife Rita Shah wished everyone a very Happy Mother’s Day and delighted all the awardees with a surprise song ‘Kitni Achchhi Hai, Tu Kitni Bholi Hai Pyaari Pyaari Hai O Maa’ celebrating the invaluable role of mothers in our lives.

Other performances included Rasika Bandekar with her classical dance performance and Dancing Divas (Trusha) with the medley of dance on various songs. This was followed by open dance floor where attendees enjoyed the pulsating beats.

During the conclusion of the event, another surprise awaited attendees, sponsored by Ramesh Punater and Naresh Shah, who generously provided special prizes in various categories such as Best Dancer, Most Enthusiastic Person, and more.

Kamlesh Kapoor led the Tech team; Dinesh Kapoor and Atul Wahi ensured all guests were welcomed and assigned to their tables, with their smooth management of Ticket Control for more than 300 guests.

Looking ahead, the “Star Awards” will encompass the celebrations of India’s 78th Independence Day, with a red-carpet event to be held on Aug 16, 2024 at Matrix Club, the FIA announced.