Sindhi Association of Chicago hosts Cheti Chand celebration

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Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago (SAMC) hosted a joyous celebration of Cheti Chand, the Sindhi New Year, April 7, 2024, at the elegant Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, Illinois. The event drew at least 250 attendees of all ages and featured a blend of cultural performances, prayers, and delectable Sindhi cuisine.

Several dignitaries attended the event, including Chief Guest India’s Consul General in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, Mayor of Oakbrook Larry Herman, Mayor of Schaumburg Tom Dailly, three-time Mayor of Oakbrook Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, and Aurora Alderwoman Shweta Baid, and Federation of Indian Associations Chicago Chairman Sunil Shah. All the guests of honor were welcomed and greeted with Sindhi Topi, Scarf, and Dhol upon their arrival. Consul General Ghosh wished the entire Sindhi Community all over the world a happy and prosperous new year.

The festivities began with traditional Behrana and Prasad, followed by a lively Jalsa experience.  Attendees participated in  prayers and paid homage to Jhulelal, the Sindhi deity, led by Dr. Gita Rupani, Manju Dadlani and Puja Jiandani.

Henna Ballaney and Ria Matta emceed the entire cultural program. Namish Nagdev, a talented 9-year-old, eloquently conveyed the importance of Cheti Chand, emphasizing acceptance, unity, and the story of Jhulelal God. Mrs. Balaney sang a special Cheti Chand song. The SAMC community kids and women performed multiple dances.

Singer Paulami Majumdar and DJ Saif Ali spun Bollywood beats, getting everyone on their feet and dancing.

The SAMC Committee that organized the event was led by President Vinita Gulabani and Secretary Dr. Subhash Balaney.

Gulabani, besides being a successful entrepreneur, is a philanthropist and has been serving on the boards of many community organizations. While talking to IUSA Media anchor Prachi Jaitly, Gulabani expressed how integral Sindhi community is to India and how much Sindhi community has contributed worldwide with its  hard work and values.

Several Community members came together to volunteer for decorations, making, packing, distributing Prasad, handing out raffles, and supporting the event. The organization thanked the sponsors and supporters  for joining the event.