By Jayanti Oza
The Chicago Hindu Mahotsav Group celebrated the 75th Republic Day of India and Valentine’s Day in the presence of more than a hundred people. The evening started with Shailesh Rajput welcoming all members and guests followed by a melodious ‘Ganesh Vandna’ by Kundan Ben Soni. ‘Deep Pragatya’ was performed by Raj Patel representing Nostrum Entertainment Hub.
Next, the Republic Day celebration commenced with a parade featuring all participants carrying Indian flags and chanting patriotic slogans. The atmosphere was charged with emotions of love for the nation, as everyone walked with pride. Special guests, including Ex-Army Man Jawan Arvind Ankleshwaria, Navin bhai Dholakia portraying Gandhi ji, Mayur bhai Shah as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (Iron Man), and Vinay bhai as Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, joined the parade. Raj Patel and Ex-Army Man Jawan Arvind bhai Ankleshwaria led the flag-waving and saluted the Indian flag, while all members sang both the Indian and American anthems. Rambhai Patel shared his sentiments about Republic Day. Following the Republic Day festivities, the Maharashtrian festival of ‘Haldi Kannu’ was hosted and sponsored by Vinay and Anita Dalvi family. All married women received tilak and blessings from each other, with the Dalvi family giving them mementos . Chirayu Parikh, the Chief Guest, commended and supported the program, appreciating the concept and efforts of all involved.
Renowned singers Dipak (Voice of Mukesh), Jitendra Balsara (Voice of Rafi Saab), and Shaila Khedkar (Voice of Lata ji) graced the event with performances of patriotic songs along with Kundan ben
Soni and Gopal bhai Shah delivering patriotic renditions.
Special thanks were extended to Bela for providing special glasses for fun, Chirag Patel for arranging disco lights, and Jayanti Oza for capturing pictures of the celebration, creating lasting memories for all. Sailesh Rajput expressed gratitude to all members, supporters, and volunteers for making the event so special.
