By: Jayanti Oza

The Indian Seniors of Chicago celebrated their annual Diwali festival with grandeur on October 11, 2025, at Manav Seva Mandir in Bensenville, Illinois. The vibrant event saw a gathering of nearly 500 members and guests who joined in the festive celebrations.

The program began with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp by founder Narsinghbhai Patel, organization president Dilipbhai Patel, and chief guests Chhotalal Patel, Dahyabhai Prajapati, Haribhai Patel, Bhailalbhai Patel, and Rajendrabhai Chauhan.

Treasurer Hemant Modi, in his welcome remarks, shared that the organization would also commemorate its jubilee year along with the Diwali festivities. President Dilipbhai Patel welcomed guests with floral bouquets, while guest speaker Chhotalal Patel emphasized the importance of healthy living through regular exercise, adequate sleep, nutritious food, and positive thinking.

The event featured soulful musical performances and colorful dances. Artists including Panna Shah and Jayshree Seth opened the cultural segment with ‘Shankar Stuti’ and a dance to the song ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram’. Members showcased their talents through karaoke performances led by Jayanti Oza, Hemant Modi, Pushpa Parekh, Daksha Parikh, Ashwin Thakkar, Jashwant Seth, and Arvind Kotke.

Dance groups added to the festive spirit—Daksha Parikh’s group presented the Garba ‘Maro Sonano Ghadulo’, Panna Shah’s group performed ‘Vagyo Re Dhol’ from the film ‘Hilora’, Saroj Patel’s group performed a traditional folk dance, and Deepak’s group danced to songs from the film ‘Unchai’. Additional highlights included devotional and humorous performances such as ‘Krishna Bhajan’ and ‘Alexa Tu Kya Che?’.

The dignitaries were honored for their contributions by President Dilipbhai Patel and Vice President Kantibhai Patel. Renowned singer Rajesh Chalam concluded the evening with an engaging Hindi musical session.

The event closed with a vote of thanks from Panna Shah, who expressed gratitude to the volunteers, donors, and media partners, including Jayanti Oza and Bhailalbhai Patel of Parikh Media.