Hindu community celebrates heritage month with Shobha Yatra in Chicago
By Avatans Kumar
On October 12, members of the Hindu community gathered at the iconic Art Institute of Chicago on Michigan Avenue for a Shobha Yatra to honor Hindu Heritage Month. The event coincided with Vijayadashami, an auspicious day marking the conclusion of Navratri, a nine-day period of prayer and fasting dedicated to Maa Durga, the divine feminine.
Known as Dushehra, this festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, commemorating the legendary defeat of the demon king Ravana by Bhawan Ram, as recounted in the Ramayana.
The Art Institute holds historical significance as the site where Swami Vivekananda delivered his famous address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in 1893.
“The Hindu Heritage Month October Shobha Yatra at Swami Vivekananda Way showcased the beautiful Hindu tradition to America,” said Nirav Patel, one of the event organizers.
A section of Michigan Avenue in front of the Art Institute has been designated as the Honorary Swami Vivekananda Marg. However, community members observed that the street sign bearing Swami Vivekananda’s name has been relocated, prompting plans to petition the city of Chicago for its restoration.
Rohit Chaudhary, who attended the event with his family, reflected, “The Shobha Yatra celebrations are among India’s biggest and most significant cultural and religious events. Each participant left with meaningful intentions and a commitment to embody the values of satva in their daily lives, proudly celebrating their heritage.”
Throughout October, various Hindu organizations commemorate Hindu Heritage Month, alongside Dharma-based groups from Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. These organizations have been advocating for formal recognition of October as Hindu Heritage Month in their communities. Several states and cities, including Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Ohio, and Georgia, have already issued proclamations.
Efforts are also underway to secure federal recognition of Hindu Heritage Month. The US India Community Foundation has submitted a memorandum to Speaker Mike Johnson in support of this initiative.
