Indian Seniors of Chicago celebrate 78th Independence Day with festivities and tributes

By: Jayanti Oza

Over 300 members of the Indian Seniors of Chicago gathered on August 10, 2024, at Mahalakshmi Hall, Manav Mandir, for a grand celebration of India’s 78th Independence Day. The event, led by Hemant Modi, featured performances of Ganesha Stuti and Shri Hanuman Chalisa by Deepakbhai, Jayashreeben, Dakshaben, Janakben, and Chandrikaben. The treasurer, Shri Hemantbhai Modi, presented the financial report for July and recognized the donors.

The day’s festivities included a Raksha Bandhan ceremony, with sisters performing the traditional rituals for their brothers. Birthday wishes were extended to members with August birthdays.

The Independence Day program was highlighted by Shri Arvind Patel, Kantibhai Patel, and Navin Patel. Shri Arvind Patel, dressed as an Indian soldier, delivered a patriotic song. The event featured a parade led by Kantibhai Patel and Navin Patel, with around 40 members proudly waving the national flag. The chief guest, Mr. Rajubhai Chauhan, President of Manav Seva Mandir, saluted the parade and hoisted the Indian tricolor, followed by a rendition of the National Anthem. A speech by Mr. Dilipbhai Patel, President of the organization, marked the occasion.

Religious observances included a Janmashtami program conducted by Mrs. Hansaben Patel, Jayshriben Patel, Kokilaben Patel, and Mrs. Dakshaben Parikh. Mrs. Dakshaben spoke on Janmashtami’s significance, and members participated in aarti and a Ras Garba event.

A moment of silence was observed for Shri Rajendrabhai Anjaria, a recently deceased member. Yashaswini Desai informed members about an upcoming fundraising event by Seva International in Naperville.

Mr. Dilip Patel expressed gratitude to the volunteers and concluded the event with a delicious meal for all attendees.