By: Jayanti Oza

United Senior Pariwar, Chicago (USPC), celebrated Navratri with an evening of devotional rituals, traditional Garba and Dandiya dancing, and community fellowship at the Swaminarayan Mandir in Wheeling on October 10.

The gathering brought together senior community members and guests to celebrate Hindu traditions while promoting friendship, cultural preservation and active community engagement.

The event was sponsored by Acharya Shri Rohitbhai Joshi and his wife, Pannaben Joshi, with co-sponsorship from Manjuben Chhitubhai Patel and family.

The program began with traditional refreshments, including fafda, jalebi, pasta and tea. Acharya Shri Rohitbhai Joshi recited Navratri mantras and offered blessings to the attendees, setting a devotional tone for the evening.

Lima Mathew, Consul, Head of Chancery and Community Welfare at the Consulate General of India in Chicago, attended the celebration, thanked the organizers for the invitation and extended Navratri greetings to the community.

Garba and Dandiya were the highlights of the evening, as participants dressed in colorful traditional attire enthusiastically joined the dances. The celebration provided seniors an opportunity to remain socially active while enjoying the music, customs and festive spirit associated with Navratri.

During a break, guests enjoyed Havmor ice cream sponsored by Bharatbhai Soni and his wife, Varshaben Soni. Music for the event was provided by DJ Bharatbhai Desai.

Shri Mafatbhai Patel, owner of Patel Brothers and Airtours, conveyed his blessings and best wishes for the event and contributed $1,000 in support of the celebration.

USPC also marked the birthdays of members born in October, distributing sweets and extending wishes for their happiness and good health.

Rameshbhai Chokshi and Virendrabhai Patel informed members about the organization’s upcoming Diwali Annakut celebration scheduled for November 2026 and encouraged community participation.

Treasurer Kiritbhai Pandya thanked the sponsors, the Consulate General of India in Chicago, the Swaminarayan Mandir, volunteers and attendees for their contributions to the event’s success.

The evening concluded with a vegetarian dinner prepared by the Swaminarayan Mandir. The celebration underscored USPC’s continued efforts to bring seniors together through devotion, cultural traditions, social interaction and community service.