By: Jayanti Oza

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the Indian Seniors of Chicago held a lively general meeting at Mahalaxmi Hall, Manav Seva Mandir, with around 360 members in attendance. The meeting, led by Navinbhai Patel, began with devotional recitations of Ganesh Stuti and Shri Hanuman Chalisa, performed by Bhupendra and Geeta Suthar, along with other members.
Hemant Modi then presented the income and expenditure report for January, acknowledging the generous donations that the organization had received. Following this, Bhupendra Suthar invited members celebrating February birthdays to come forward. Manjulaben Patel and Urmilaben Patel presented flowers to the celebrants, and everyone joyfully sang “Baar Baar Ye Din Aaye” to wish them a happy birthday.
Kantibhai Patel, Vice President of the organization, spoke about the importance of regular yoga, exercise, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle for seniors. He stressed the significance of proper nutrition, adequate sleep, hydration, and positive thinking.

Shri C.V. Desai shared insights about the ongoing Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, discussing the historical and spiritual importance of the Kumbh Mela, which is being attended by millions of Hindus from January 13 to February 26, 2025. He also described the various facilities provided for the attendees at the Mahakumbh.
The event then shifted to a special Valentine’s Day celebration, where members performed love songs inspired by Sanatan Dharma. Performances included beautiful renditions by Hemantbhai Modi, Jayesh and Neelam Shah, Durgesh and Alpa Shah, Gopis and Malini Mehta, Kantibhai and Hasuben Patel, Purnima Baman, Bhupendra and Gita Suthar, Jashwant Sheth, Ashwin Thakkar, Pravin and Sudha Gandhi, and Dilip and Leena Patel. The program was met with enthusiastic applause, and a dance performance by Radhakrishna and Gopis added to the festive spirit.

Chittaranjan and Mayura Desai, along with their family, generously sponsored the sweets and farsan for lunch, and Kantibhai Patel honored them for their contribution.

Nitinbhai Patel presented detailed information about the proposed Mokshdham project in Bensonville and appealed for donations. The Indian Seniors of Chicago made a substantial donation of $15,001 to support this noble initiative.

In a heartfelt gesture, Jayantibhai Oza, a member of Manish Media, presented copies of the book Jewels of Gujarat by Shri Chandmal Kumawat, which highlights the accomplishments of prominent Gujaratis worldwide. The executive committee members were gifted copies of this valuable work.

Dilip Patel, President of the organization, expressed gratitude to the volunteers, the Desai family, the performers, and press reporter and photographer Jayanti Oza for their support. After enjoying a delightful lunch, the members departed, leaving with fond memories of a memorable day.