Indian Seniors of Chicago celebrate Diwali with musical festivities at Manav Seva Mandir
By: Jayanti Oza
On October 26, 2024, the Indian Seniors of Chicago gathered to celebrate their annual Diwali function at the Manav Seva Mandir in Bensenville, Illinois. The festive event, attended by over 430 members and guests, featured a vibrant musical program and community spirit. The celebration was coordinated by Bhupendra Suthar and Daxa Parikh, who guided the program from start to finish.
Panna Shah, an Executive Board member, took the stage to reflect on the 24-year journey of the Indian Seniors of Chicago. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Dahyabhai Prajapati, Chairman of the Manav Seva Mandir Trustee Board, Raju Chauhan, President of Manav Seva Mandir, and several other community leaders—Bhailal Patel, Shirish Patel, Narsinh Patel, Rohit Joshi, Ishwar Patel, and Dilip Patel. These guests were invited on stage for the traditional Deep Pragtya (lamp lighting ceremony), marking the beginning of the Diwali celebration.
Dahyabhai Prajapati addressed the gathering, sharing insights on the various programs run by the Manav Seva Mandir and highlighting the challenges faced by minorities in Bangladesh. He also discussed the need for future fund collection to support victims of persecution. Dilip Patel and Raju Chauhan extended Diwali wishes to all, and Dilip Patel, President of Indian Seniors of Chicago, presented bouquets to honor the esteemed guests.
Daxa Parikh then introduced the musical program, performed by the SAREGAMA musical group. The lively Bollywood tunes soon had seniors, some over 70 years old, stepping onto the dance floor in joy and enthusiasm. After an interlude, the program resumed with an equally energetic performance of continuous Bollywood hits, creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere.
A tea break provided guests with an opportunity to relax, before Navin Patel and Kanti Patel took to the stage to honor the donors and sponsors of the event with roses and thoughtful gifts. Kanti Patel delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for the generous support that made the event possible. As the evening continued, the music and dance brought even more excitement, with members dancing along to their favorite Bollywood melodies until the final notes. Daxa Parikh and Panna Shah concluded the program by honoring the singers and musicians with gifts and flowers, a gesture of gratitude for their contributions to a memorable Diwali celebration.
