Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 14 COVER STORY July 11, 2025 Desi Talk Chicago Celebrates The Grand Launch Of Its Digital Edition With Community Leaders And Dignitaries I n a major milestone for ethnic media in the Midwest, Desi Talk Chicago, published by ParikhWorldwide Me- dia, celebrated the official launch of its fully digital edition at a red-carpet event hosted at India Hub in Schaum- burg, Illinois. The gathering brought together community leaders, business owners, advertisers, and longtime sup- porters of the publication. The occasion was graced by the esteemed Consul General of India, Mr. Somnath Ghosh, who served as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, Mr. Ghosh congratulated Desi Talk for its remarkable contributions in the field of media, acknowledging its consistent efforts to connect and inform the Indian American community. He spoke passion- ately about the dynamism of the Indian diaspora in the United States, describing it as a powerful and enterprising commu- nity that continues to make significant contributions to the American economy across a variety of sectors. Mr. Ghosh also underscored the importance of Indian Americans participating actively in pub- lic service and politics, emphasizing that greater representation in decision-mak- ing spaces is crucial for the community’s future. He concluded by highlighting the need to engage and empower Indian American youth, urging the community to involve the next generation in cultural, civic, and leadership roles to ensure con- tinued growth and cohesion. Mr. Bhailal M. Patel, Executive Vice President of ParikhWorldwide Media, welcomed attendees and was recognized for his decades of leadership and com- mitment to the growth of the publication. A special video message was shared by Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV GOLD, who extended his heartfelt thanks to Consul General Ghosh and all the guests for their unwavering support over the years. Dr. Parikh emphasized Desi Talk’s mission to serve as a trusted voice for the community and celebrated the digital launch as a major leap to- ward modern, accessible journal- ism. A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the new Desi Talk Chicago digital platform by Ilayas Quraishi, Chief Operating Officer of ParikhWorldwide Media and ITV Gold. In his remarks, Mr. Quraishi reflected on the paper’s 20+ year journey: “Desi Talk Chicago has always been more than a publication—it’s been a voice, a bridge, and a community touchstone. Our move to digital ensures we meet our audience where they are, with content that’s timely, mobile-friend- ly, and more engaging than ever.” He emphasized that the new platform is designed to deliver real-time updates, increase accessibility, and strengthen the bond between readers, advertisers, and the South Asian diaspora. The event also saw enthusiastic sup- port from local business leaders, many of whom pledged continued advertising and promotional partnerships to back the publication’s digital growth. Among the notable supporters was Harish Kolasani, Chairman – National India Hub, who offered words of encouragement and pledged his support for future collabora- tions. He praised Desi Talk Chi- cago for its community-driven mission and shared his vision to work together in promoting dias- pora achievements and cultural initiatives through India Hub. Mr. Sushil Pandit, a visiting senior media professional from the UK, shared brief remarks highlighting the increasing role of diaspora media in global con- versations and identity-building. Editorial and outreach team members from Desi Talk Chica- go were present, including Mus- lima Shethawala, Syed Sheeraz, Prachi Jaitly, Urvashi Verma, and Jai Kishan (JK)—each recog- nized for their commitment to community-focused reporting. The evening began with networking and concluded with a celebratory dinner, marking the start of a bold new chapter for Desi Talk Chicago in the digital era. By Prachi Jaitly PHOTO: JK PHOTO: JK PHOTO:Sheeraz Admark PHOTO:Sheeraz Admark PHOTO:Sheeraz Admark PHOTO: ITV GOLD Consul General of India in Chicago, Mr. Somnath Ghosh, joins community leaders and Desi Talk Chicago team members for the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, marking the official launch of the digital edition at India Hub on July 3, 2025. Bhailal M. Patel, Executive Vice President of Parikh Worldwide Media, is honored for his decades of dedicated service and leadership during the Desi Talk Chicago digital launch event at India Hub on July 3, 2025. Consul General of India in Chicago, Mr. Somnath Ghosh, delivers the keynote address during the grand launch of Desi Talk Chicago’s digital edition at India Hub, Schaumburg on July 3, 2025. Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media, delivers a special video message celebrating the digital launch of Desi Talk Chicago and thanking the community for its continued support. Consul General of India in Chicago, Mr. Somnath Ghosh, with community leaders, Bhailal M. Patel, Executive VP of Parikh Worldwide Media, and Ilayas Quraishi, COO, alongside the Desi Talk Chicago staff during the digital launch celebration at India Hub. Ilayas Quraishi, Chief Operating Officer of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold, addresses the audience.