Chicago celebration highlights growing India–Israel partnership through diplomacy, shared democratic values, and community engagement.

By: Dr. Avi Verma

Community leaders, diplomats, and members of the Indian and Jewish communities gathered in Chicago to celebrate India–Israel Friendship Day, highlighting the growing partnership between the two nations and strengthening ties between their diaspora communities in the Midwest.

Organized by the Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest and the Global Indian Diaspora Foundation (GIDF), the celebration was held under the newly unveiled slogan, “Namaste Israel: Shalom India,” symbolizing the friendship between two ancient civilizations.

GIDF member Abhinav Raina welcomed guests and opened the festivities. GIDF President Rakesh Malhotra traced the historical journeys of both nations, noting that India gained independence in 1947 and Israel became an independent state in 1948. He emphasized that the two democracies share common values and face common challenges, including terrorism, making their partnership increasingly significant.

Consul General of Israel to the Midwest Elad Strohmayer highlighted the shared democratic values and strong people-to-people ties that define the India–Israel relationship. He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to strengthening cooperation between the Indian and Israeli communities across the Midwest and thanked Deputy Consul General Delphine for her efforts in making the event a success. Strohmayer also formally endorsed the partnership slogan, “Namaste Israel: Shalom India.”

Community leader and social worker Anna Steinberg was recognized for her longstanding efforts to foster closer ties between the Indian and Jewish communities through civic and cultural engagement.

Deputy Consul General of India in Chicago Kriti Thokchom underscored the strategic importance of India–Israel relations, including cooperation through the I2U2 initiative involving India, Israel, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates. He also praised the close relationship between the two communities in the Chicago area.

In a statement, GIDF thanked the Jewish community and the Indian diaspora for coming together to celebrate the occasion, saying the gathering reaffirmed the enduring friendship between India and Israel, built on shared democratic values, mutual respect, innovation, and expanding people-to-people connections.

The evening also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of both nations. Guests enjoyed Indian and Israeli appetizers and dinner specialties, followed by an Indian dance performance and traditional Israeli folk dancing that drew enthusiastic participation from attendees.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening the bridge between India and Israel and advancing a partnership rooted in shared values, trust, and cooperation.