By: Ashwani Mahajan

The Punjabi American Association recently hosted its annual Teeyan Da Mela at Waterford Chicagoland, an event that showcased the vibrant cultural heritage of Punjab. This year’s celebration featured an array of traditional activities, with highlights including lively performances of Gidda, Bhangra, and Bolian. The festival began with an engaging array of activities where Punjabi women and children participated enthusiastically. The highlight of the event was the spirited display of Gidda and Bhangra, traditional Punjabi dances that captivated the audience. The festive mood was further enhanced by the continuous performance of Bolian, a folk song style that complemented the Gidda.

One of the most captivating features of the Mela was the Jago ceremony, where women donned traditional Jago decorations—large, decorated vessels placed on their heads—and carried sticks and Pakhian (decorative sticks) as they danced and sang Punjabi folk songs. The participants also performed Kikli, a traditional Punjabi dance, with flair and grace.

The event venue was adorned with colorful curtains and floral decorations, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Attendees were dressed in traditional Punjabi suits, complete with heavy jewelry, and engaged in various games and activities. Rajwinder Kaur emerged victorious in the spoon-and-lemon race, while Rupinder Kaur was crowned Shokan Mela Di, acknowledging her exceptional performance.

Judges for the event included Laddi Singh, Raj Dhaliwal, and Sukhbir Kaur Dhillon, who evaluated the performances and games. The festival also featured stalls selling Punjabi clothing, jewelry, and chapples (sandals), along with delicious Punjabi cuisine provided by Maharaj Restaurant.

Entertainment was further enriched by Jyoti Sharma, known for her roles in various plays and films, who delighted the audience with her Punjabi songs. Many attendees took the opportunity to capture memories of the event with playful photo sessions, holding up colorful placards.

Guljar Singh, one of the event organizers, expressed pride in the annual celebration, emphasizing its role in preserving and promoting Punjabi culture. He extended his gratitude to the sponsors and guests, highlighting the significance of the Teej festival.
The event received commendations from Sardar Darshan Singh Dhaliwal and his brother Surjit Singh Rakhra, former Minister of Punjab, who congratulated the Punjabi American Association for organizing such a successful festival. Chief guest Dhaliwal honored sponsors J.D., Mack Bhambra, and J.P., along with several distinguished ladies.

The organizing team, which included Mini Multani, Naina Singh, Jasmit Suga, Raj Mago, Jyoti Khaira, Kamal Hunjan, Pummi Sangha, Neha Walia, Jeevan Dhami, Pinki Walia, Prabh Khaira, Sukhi Singh, Jolly Wadhera, Shallu Chabbra, Gurpreet Singh, Raji Rohal, and Sheetal Kalra, received accolades for their efforts. Board members Gulzar Singh, Jasbir Suga, Paul Wadhera, Sukhwinder Hunjan, Jagmit Singh, Dr. Harjinder Khaira, Saavi, Atal, and Devinder Singh also contributed to the event’s success.

The Teeyan Da Mela was a resounding success, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Punjab and fostering a sense of community and celebration among attendees.