Thousands celebrate Navratri Garba at Bharatiya Seniors’ event in Chicago

By: Jayanti Oza

The Bharatiya Senior Citizens of Chicago held a nine-day Navratri Garba Mahotsav at the Rana Regan Center in Carol Stream, IL. More than 700 devotees participated, with around 1,500 attendees over the weekend celebrating the Navratri Mahotsav from the Chicago area.
On the first day, October 3rd, all committee members performed the “Mata Amba Maa” pujan for the first time. From October 4 to October 12, special attendees included Gordhan Patel and family, Dr. Dhaval Patel and family, Bachubhai Paghdal and family, Suryakant Patel and Pinakinbhai family, Arvind Guna Patel and family, Mahendra Moradia and family, Damji Patel family, Hari Patel and family, Shirish Shah and family, and Bharat Patel, Bharat Doshi, and Bharat Patel and family, who also participated in the “Amba Maa Pujan.”
This special Navratri Mahotsav featured popular DJ OZA (Bharat Oza) and Ajay Makwana, who played traditional dances including energetic Garba and Dandiya. Each day included special prayers. BSC President Hari Patel thanked the numerous volunteers who dedicated countless hours to the event.
Attendees enjoyed traditional cuisine such as Fafda and Jalebi, offered by BSC to celebrate Dussehra. Other dishes served included Ragda Patties, Shiro, Bhel Puri, tea, and coffee. During Navratri, BSC celebrated the 86th birthday of Parsottam Pandya (Managing Trustee) and made plans for upcoming Diwali and New Year celebrations during an appreciation dinner.