By: Dr Avi Verma

The Indian American community in Chicagoland gathered in solemn unity at the National India Hub in Schaumburg to honor the victims of the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash that claimed over 250 lives, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Vijay Rupani.

Organized by the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) and supported by several leading diaspora organizations, the memorial drew hundreds to the Indian Cultural Center for an evening of prayer, reflection, and remembrance.
The event opened with a two-minute silence, followed by the chanting of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra led by Pandit Rohit Joshi. Attendees lit candles and offered flowers in a collective tribute. Speakers including Amar Upadhayay, Rakesh Malhotra, Hemant Patel, and others shared memories of Rupani, recalling his humility, service, and deep-rooted connection to the people of Gujarat.

“This is not just a political loss—it is a loss of a compassionate leader and hundreds of innocent lives,” said Rakesh Malhotra, quoting the Bhagavad Gita: “The soul is eternal, but today our hearts are broken.”
The event was supported by the Federation of Indian Associations, Indian Council of Niles Township, United Senior Pariwar, Bhartiya Senior Citizen Group, and others. Organizers announced a week-long series of remembrance events and prayer gatherings across the region.