By Vandana Jhingan

The United Senior Pariwar (USPC) of Chicago celebrated its 16th anniversary on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Manav Seva Mandir, Bensenville, IL. The event was honored by Chief Guest Shri Sanjeev Kumar Pal (Consul from the Consulate General of India, Chicago) and Guest of Honor Shri Mafatbhai Patel (Chairman of the Trustee Board and owner of Patel Brothers). Other notable guests included Dr. Bharat Barai, Dr. Dhiren Mistry, Shri Ramanlal A. Patel, Shri Narasihnbhai Patel, Shri Dilipbhai Patel, Mrs. Hema Shastri, Shri Dayabhai Prajapati, Ms. Vandana Jhingan, Mr. Amar Upadhyay, and Mrs. Usha Kamaria.

The celebration began with a birthday celebration for members born in June, followed by a Deep Prajwalan ceremony conducted by the key dignitaries present. Acharya Rohit Joshi offered blessings with a traditional Hindu prayer. Shri Rameshbhai Chokshi presented a welcome speech, and Shri Rohitbhai Joshi introduced the chief guests and invited them to address the audience.

Shri Sanjeev Kumar Pal expressed his gratitude for the invitation and conveyed best wishes from the Consulate General of India in Chicago. He lauded USPC’s growth and its dedication to serving seniors. Shri Mafatbhai Patel encouraged organizing more such events, while Dr. Narasihnbhai Patel emphasized the importance of happiness and health for a worry-free life.

Shri Virendrabhai Patel, along with the executive committee, outlined USPC’s vision and goals, highlighting the need for emotional support within the community. The founders of USPC, Shri Haribhai Thakkar, Shri Ramanbhai S. Patel, and Shri Kanubhai H. Patel were all recognized for their contributions with a Sanman Patra.

The event featured a musical program by Chicago artists Rajesh Chalam, Nipa Shah, Pavitra Anand, Hitesh Master, Anand Master, Richard Krischian, and Gopal Shah. Treasurer Shri Kiritbhai Pandya concluded with a vote of thanks. The celebration ended with a delicious meal catered by Uru-Swati Restaurant of Devon, Chicago.