Indian Overseas Congress Kerala Pennsylvania chapter celebrates India’s 70th Republic Day

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Through a Facebook Live from Chicago, the Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC), Sam Pitroda, addressed a large audience of Indian Americans, who were gathered to celebrate India’s 70th Republic Day on Saturday, January 26 at the Christos Church Auditorium in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The celebration was hosted by IOC Kerala Pennsylvania chapter, where the IOC PA chapter President Santhosh Abraham chaired the event and among those present were IOC USA National President Shudh Prakash Singh, General Secretary Rajender Dichpally, Vice President Kalathil Varughese, Treasurer Vinit Nagpal, Secretary Shalu Punnoose and Kerala Chapter National President Joby George, who has been organizing this celebration for many years now.

In his message, Dr. Pitroda congratulated the Kerala Chapter National President Joby George and Chairman Kalathil Varghese for the mega event.

Pitroda also highlighted the progress that India has made in the last 70 years and urged audience members to join IOC.

This year’s chief guest was State Senator John Sabatina, while State Representative Martina White and City Councilman Derek Green were both guest speakers.

In his speech, Sen. Sabatina said that the Republic Day celebration is the most appropriate as India is a great democratic country and he appreciates the fact that the IOC Kerala chapter took the initiative to celebrate it.

Rep. White said that “Indians in the region are well respected and a law abiding community, I am happy to join your celebrations,” while Councilman Green added that “it is good to note the Indian community is getting involved in the mainstream politics.”

A cultural program organized by Geemon George included dances, live music and other varieties of entertainment.

More than 50 children and adults performed on stage making it an evening to remember.

The celebration ended with a Kerala style dinner with over 250 people in attendance including leaders of various organizations.