Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 18 INDIA’S INDEPENDENCE DAY August 22, 2025 FIA Chicago Commemorate Bharat’s 79th Independence Day At Daley Plaza T he Tiranga soared high above Daley Plaza as the Indian Ameri- can community came together to celebrate not only Bharat’s 79th Independence Day but also the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabh- bhai Patel—a timeless reminder of unity and resilience. Chicago’s Daley Plaza turned into a symbol of unity and patriotism as the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA estd.1980) Chicago, in collaboration with the National India Hub, hosted a historic celebration of Bharat’s 79th Independence Day. The event witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of over 120 par- ticipants, including dignitaries, elected officials, community leaders, and fami- lies who came together to honor India’s freedom and cultural legacy. The celebration was attended by among others, the Consul General Somnath Ghosh, FIA Trustee-Director Dr. Bharat Barai, Alderwoman Debra Silverstein, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, former MLA Sahab Singh, and several community stalwarts including Ajeet Singh, Nirav Patel, Ramesh Choksi, Raja Babu, Nitin Surti, Devesh Pandit, and Maharashtra Mandal Chicago Presi- dent Nameeta Vedak, along with board members Chetan Rege, Archana Shripal, Ashwini Kunte, and trustee Madhav Gogawale. In his keynote remarks, FIA Presi- dent Hemant Patel paid tribute to the countless freedom fighters whose sacrifices made independence possible. He reflected on the resilience of Bharat’s ancient civilization, urging the commu- nity to celebrate the occasion with joy, gratitude, and renewed responsibility. He also extended heartfelt thanks to FIA’s sponsors, media partners, community organizations, over 60 member associa- tions, youth participants, performers, and volunteers. Special acknowledgment was given to Consul General Ghosh and Dr. Barai for their steadfast encourage- ment and support. This year’s event carried a special theme, “150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel —The Iron Man of Bharat.” Leaders highlighted Sardar Patel’s legacy of unity, courage, and determination, reminding the gathering of his unmatched role in shaping modern India. INSPIRING SPEECHES AND PATRIOTIC SPIRIT Addressing the gathering, Consul Gen- eral Somnath Ghosh, Alderwoman Debra Silverstein, and Treasurer Maria Pappas delivered uplifting messages of unity and shared democratic values. FIA Trustee Rakesh Malhotra and former MLA Sahab Singh echoed the importance of remem- bering Bharat’s freedom fighters, empha- sizing their role in securing a prosperous future for generations to come. The event began with the soulful renditions of the American and Indian national anthems, followed by the proud hoisting of the Tiranga flag at the heart of Chicago’s downtown—a moment of im- mense pride for the diaspora. The cultural program brought the spir- it of patriotism to life. Rasika Bandekar, an esteemed Bharatanatyam teacher, led her students in energetic classical dance performances that captivated the audi- ence. Youth participants and performers showcased Bharat’s rich cultural heritage, symbolizing the blend of tradition and modernity within the Indian American community. FIA executives:including Amar Upad- hyay, Shailesh Rajput, Rohit Joshi, Anil Singh, Arvind Ankleshwaria, and trustees; Bhailalbhai Patel, and Rakesh Malhotra— presented certificates of appreciation to volunteers, performers, and cultural con- tributors. Special gratitude was extended to Yash Desai for his dedicated efforts in curating the cultural lineup. Despite strict time constraints im- posed by the city and minor program delays, the celebration concluded with seamless coordination. The event stood as a shining example of community unity, cultural pride, and patriotism— proclaiming Bharat’s Independence in the heart of Chicago with dignity and grandeur. The celebration was marked by powerful reflections and messages that will continue to resonate within the community. “Sardar Patel’s courage and vision continue to inspire Bharat and the world,” noted Consul General Somnath Ghosh. FIA President Hemant Patel urged everyone to “celebrate with both joy and gratitude,” while the sight of the Tiranga soaring proudly above Daley Plaza stood as a reminder that it “unites hearts across generations.” The 79th Independence Day was celebrated with flag hoisting, cultural performances, and community spirit. Posts extended warm gratitude to digni- taries, performers, and volunteers whose efforts honored freedom, culture, and shared values in the heart of Chicago. The visuals of the Tiranga rising high also commemorated the 150th birth anniver- sary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, remind- ing all that his legacy of unity continues to guide the Indian American diaspora. FIA President Hemant Patel extended his gratitude to the dignitaries, volun- teers, and performers whose dedica- tion made the celebration a resounding success—honoring freedom, culture, and community pride in the heart of Chicago. By Bhailal M. Patel PHOTOS: JK (JatinTrivedi) The Tiranga soared high above Daley Plaza as the Indian American community came together to celebrate Bharat’s 79th Independence Day by Treasurer Maria Pappas, community leaders and members of the diaspora gathered at Daley Plaza to commemorate the day. In center: Treasurer Maria Pappas, community leaders and members of the diaspora gathered at Daley Plaza to commemorate the day. Lt to RT.Hemant Patel ,Addressing the gathering, Consul General Somnath Ghosh,and Amar Upadhyay. In center: Alderwomanof City Chicago Debra Silverstein, community leaders and members of the diaspora gathered at Daley Plaza to commemorate the day. Presenting awards for cultural performances at FIA Chicago 1980 celebration of India’s Independence Day, Aug. 15, 2025