The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA)-Chicago hosted a Patriotic Gala on August 18, drawing community leaders, elected officials, and hundreds of attendees to celebrate India’s Independence Day with music, dance, and tributes. The event, part of the organization’s ongoing Independence Day series, highlighted both history and unity among the diaspora.
The evening opened with a moment of silence for 26 people killed in Pahalgam, followed by the traditional Diya Prajvalan, the national anthems of India and the United States, and a rendition of Vande Mataram. A Kuchipudi performance by Divya Prakashini on “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon” moved the audience, including FIA President Hemant Patel, who joined former Army officers on stage in an emotional salute.
A documentary tracing FIA-Chicago’s 45-year journey was screened, recalling its parades, cultural milestones, and role in the Midwest. Illinois State Senator Michelle Mussman addressed the gathering, praising the association’s contributions and extending Independence Day wishes.
Former FIA President Rakesh Malhotra introduced Hemant Patel, who in his address paid tribute to freedom fighters and marked the 150th birth anniversary year of Sardar Patel. Patel reflected on India’s contributions to mathematics, science, and philosophy, adding, “It is impossible to imagine the modern world without India’s contributions.”
He spoke on India’s resilience through colonial rule, highlighting its position today as the world’s fourth-largest economy and fourth-strongest military. Patel also praised Operation Sindoor and urged global efforts to address the roots of religious extremism, appealing for “a peaceful, terror-free, healthy, and prosperous world.”
Community leaders, business owners, and organization heads joined on stage to hold a 15-foot banner reading We Are One. The gesture of unity followed FIA Chairman Sunil Shah’s invitation to Hemant Patel and his team at another Independence Day event earlier this month. Patel described the collaboration as “two brothers living in separate houses.”
The gala included tributes to Sardar Patel, cultural performances, and the release of FIA’s annual Souvenir, which featured greetings from officials in India and the United States. Dr. Vijay Prabhakar honored Hemant Patel with an award from Congressman Danny Davis and MEATF, praising his “fearless leadership” in community service.
Consul General Somnath Ghosh, Dr. Santosh Kumar, and other dignitaries addressed the gathering. The evening concluded with a patriotic concert led by Mihir Acharya and Darshna Patel, leaving the audience on its feet.
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