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Indian American Medical Association hosts annual gala in Illinois
The annual banquet was attended by more than 375 physicians, families, and supporters.
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Staff Reporter - Tue, 28, Apr 2026
- 04:30 EDT
- 28
Indian American Medical Association's annual gala / Asian Media USA
The Indian American Medical Association Charitable Foundation (IAMA-CF) and the Indian American Medical Association of Illinois organized a fundraising gala banquet on April 18.
Hosted in Illinois, the annual event marked a fusion of professional excellence, cultural pride, and heartfelt community service.
The annual banquet was attended by more than 375 physicians, families, and supporters, who gathered to honor decades of dedication to medicine and humanity.
The gala also stood as a powerful networking event for attendees, where they explored health-related exhibits while witnessing cultural performances.
The cultural festivities were kicked off with a Kuchipudi dance performance by young artist Aashna Golla, whose fluid movements and expressive storytelling bridged traditional Indian artistry with the modern American experience.
During the event, Lifetime Free Pharmacy recognition was awarded to Dr. Asok Ray and family, acknowledging their enduring commitment to accessible health care.
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Apart from Dr. Ray and family, several other top physicians were honored during the ceremony. Dr. Thomas John was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award, the Distinguished Physician Award was presented to Dr. Ngozi Ezike, the IAMA-CF Lifetime Support Recognition was given to late Dr. Usharani Nimmagadda, and IAMA-CF Service Recognition Awards were given to Dr. Bharati Swaminathan, Dr. Shami Goyat, Rajesh Chotalia and Dr. Prema Malani.
The welcome address for the evening was presented by IAMA chairperson Dr. Samir Shah. In his address, he outlined the foundation’s impactful work, including the Seva Community Health Clinic that provides free medical services to those in need in the Chicago area.
The chief guest for the annual celebration was President of the American Medical Association Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, the first Indian American physician to hold that office.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Subrahmanyam Dravida, the president of EKAL-USA. Dr. Dravida is known for his visionary leadership in technology and his dedication to rural education and development in India through Ekal Vidyalaya initiatives.
Dr. Meher Medavaram, president of IAMA-IL, delivered the presidential address, highlighting the organization’s ongoing mission to support Indian American physicians, advance medical excellence and serve underserved populations through the free community health clinic operated by IAMA-CF.
IAMA-CF Secretary Nusrat Ahmed delivered the vote of thanks.
The cultural festivities of the night included energetic and colorful performances by Tarana Dance Academy, soul-stirring melodies by Vidhi Patel and Khushi Jain from Sadhana School of Indian Music, popular movie songs by Yadoki Barat and a high-energy finale by Chicago Versatile Singers featuring Rajesh Chalam.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
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