By: Dr. Avi Verma

On Memorial Day, May 26, 2025, the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago hosted a deeply moving Memorial Day Meet & Greet that drew over 150 attendees from across Chicagoland’s Bharatiya community, including organizational leaders, business figures, media, and civic supporters. The event featured a solemn tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam massacre, a salute to the Bharatiya Armed Forces, and the official oath-taking ceremony of FIA’s 2025–26 Executive Board.

A night of reflection and community commitment

Despite the busy holiday weekend, the gathering demonstrated unity and civic engagement. Attendees were welcomed with flowers, community organizations received certificates of honor, and sponsors, advertisers, and donors were recognized for their vital support. The event also acknowledged past presidents, trustees, delegates, and media representatives. The evening began with refreshments and concluded with a community dinner, supported by a dedicated audiovisual volunteer team.
Operation Sindoor: tribute to Pahalgam victims and armed forces

The program opened with the national anthems of the United States and Bharat, followed by a moment of silence for the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, where civilians were executed after being identified by name. A powerful video presentation showcased scenes from Pahalgam, Kargil, Pathankot, Uri, and Mumbai, highlighting the sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces. The tribute included mention of the Indian Air Force’s decisive 23-minute strike that neutralized over 150 terrorists and damaged enemy bases. FIA President Hemant Patel emphasized the importance of honoring these sacrifices and called for the international community to confront terrorism’s roots, especially those linked to Pakistan.
Honoring veterans on Memorial Day

In observance of Memorial Day, FIA paid heartfelt tribute to soldiers and veterans, with special recognition of Indian Armed Forces veterans Sanjay Sharma and Arvind Ankleswaria, who embody the values of duty and patriotism within the global Bharatiya community.

Oath ceremony and leadership direction

FIA Trustee-Director Dr. Bharat Barai administered the oath to the newly elected Executive Board. In his remarks, he urged leadership grounded in integrity, community commitment, and proactive engagement to serve Indian Americans in the Midwest and beyond.
Strong political and social messaging

Both Hemant Patel and Dr. Barai delivered firm calls to boycott countries and businesses supporting terrorism, including Turkey. Patel stressed, “Terrorism and atrocities must never be forgotten or forgiven. Don’t fund your own destruction—boycott those who support terrorism.”

Mokshadham project update

An update was provided on the Mokshadham Project, a culturally respectful crematory initiative led by Dr. Rashmi Patel and Dr. Bharat Barai to support Indian-American families in performing last rites according to Indian traditions. This reflects FIA’s dedication to honoring heritage with spiritual dignity.

Showcasing community impact

The event highlighted FIA’s recent advocacy and outreach efforts, including:

• • Candlelight vigil for 13 U.S. soldiers killed in Afghanistan (2021)

• • Opposition to the City of Chicago’s anti-CAA resolution

• • Rebuttal to a negative Chicago Sun-Times article on Bharat

• • Diwali food drives for underserved communities

• • OCI camp and community health fair

“These efforts show how diaspora organizations engage with issues affecting both the U.S. and Bharat,” said Patel.

Acknowledgments and community spirit

Special thanks went to Mitul Patel, venue owner, and Jay Patel, head of the Audio-Visual Team from Bavis Gam Patidar Samaj, for their support. Attendees were encouraged to support upcoming events including International Yoga Day, the 15th August Independence Day Parade, Tiranga Car Rally, and Patriotic Gala.

“No organization can thrive without community support,” Patel concluded. “No donation is too small or too big. This is your organization—own it, support it, and take pride in it.” Contributions can be made via Zelle at FIAChicago2025.26@gmail.com.