By: Prachi Jaitly

The Bihar Jharkhand Association of Midwest (BJUS) hosted a vibrant celebration last week combining Holi festivities and Women’s Day, drawing over 300 community members to the National India Hub in Schaumburg. The event was a day of cultural unity, exuberance, and reflection, honoring both the festival of colors and the achievements of women.

The program began with an inspiring rendition of the US and Indian national anthems, performed by local high school students, setting a respectful and celebratory tone for the day. Attendees were then treated to an array of cultural performances, including traditional dances, music, and a diya lighting ceremony that symbolized hope and new beginnings. The diya lighting, coordinated by BJUS core team members, became a poignant moment in the celebration.
Guests enjoyed a spread of traditional Bihari Holi delicacies, including Malpua, Kathal Subji, Dahi Vada, and thandai. A lively DJ set kept the energy high throughout the event, while Bollywood-themed games brought an extra dose of fun and camaraderie. Kids especially enjoyed the face painting station, adding colorful expressions to the festivities.

The Women’s Day segment featured a heartfelt speech from the chief guest, along with messages of empowerment and inspiration from community leaders Neelam Dwivedi, Dr. Saket Sinha, and Harish Kolasani. BJUS members Pankaj Kumar, Anita Srivastava, and Sweta Jairath skillfully emceed the event, ensuring the smooth flow of activities.
BJUS President Shikha Kumari expressed gratitude for the strong community turnout, remarking, “Today’s event is a testament to our community’s rich cultural heritage and the strength of our collective spirit. It was truly heartening to see families, friends, and community leaders come together in celebration of both Holi and Women’s Day.” The President also invited women from the community to participate in a celebratory Women’s Day photo shoot, further capturing the spirit of unity and empowerment.

BJUS continues to focus on fostering cultural exchange and community engagement, and looks forward to organizing more events that celebrate the vibrant traditions of the Bihar and Jharkhand communities.