The spirit of patriotism and unity filled Daley Plaza as FIA Chicago, in collaboration with National India Hub, hosted a vibrant celebration of Bharat’s 79th Independence Day. The event drew more than 120 attendees, including prominent community leaders, public officials, and dignitaries.

Among those present were Consul General Somnath Ghosh, FIA Trustee-Director Dr. Bharat Barai, Alderwoman Debra Silverstein, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, former MLA Sahab Singh, and community leaders including Ajeet Singh, Nirav Patel, Ramesh Choksi, Raja Babu, Nitin Surti, and Devesh Pandit.

The Maharashtra Mandal Chicago also participated, represented by President Nameeta Vedak, board members Chetan Rege, Archana Shripal, Ashwini Kunte, and trustee Madhav Gogawale.

In his keynote address, FIA President Hemant Patel paid tribute to Bharat’s freedom fighters, emphasizing the sacrifices that secured independence. “We must celebrate with both joy and gratitude,” he said, while thanking the sponsors, media partners, youth participants, volunteers, and more than 60 member organizations whose support made the event possible.

This year’s celebration carried special significance with the theme, “150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Patel, The Iron Man of Bharat.” Speeches by Consul General Ghosh, Alderwoman Silverstein, and Treasurer Pappas highlighted Patel’s legacy of courage and unity. FIA Trustee Rakesh Malhotra and former MLA Sahab Singh further underscored the enduring importance of freedom fighters in shaping Bharat’s destiny.

The program began with the American and Bharatiya national anthems, followed by the ceremonial hoisting of the Tiranga. The plaza came alive with cultural performances, led by Bharat Natyam teacher Rasika Bandekar and her students, whose dances embodied the patriotic spirit.

FIA executives and trustees including Amar Upadhyay, Shailesh Rajput, Rohit Joshi, Anil Singh, Arvind Ankleshwaria, Bhailalbhai Patel, and Rakesh Malhotra presented certificates of appreciation to performers and volunteers. Special acknowledgement was given to Yash Desai for curating the cultural program.

Despite time restrictions from the city and minor delays, the celebration concluded smoothly. Participants left with a renewed sense of pride, unity, and commitment to Bharat’s democratic values.