Two FIAs unite in Chicago to mark India’s Independence Day

Community leaders set aside 16-year division, share stage for celebrations and pledge mutual support.

Both organizations have stated that their mission is to serve the community, India, and the United States. / FIA

Two rival chapters of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) in Chicago, separated for 16 years, came together on one stage this week to mark India’s Independence Day, in what community leaders described as a long-awaited gesture of unity.

The joint appearance took place during local celebrations attended by members of Chicago’s Indian community. FIA president Hemant Patel called the reunion “like two brothers living in separate houses,” adding, “It should be that simple.” He said that when “time and ideology align,” the two organizations should take part in each other’s events and offer mutual support.

Patel also repeated a message he has often shared at Independence Day events: “Freedom was not free! We must pay tribute to all who sacrificed for it. If we forget, we are doomed to lose it again.”

The sight of leaders from both FIAs sharing the same stage was widely seen as a significant symbolic step. For years, many in the community have expressed discomfort over the split, saying it made it difficult to openly support either side. Patel said the divisions “must end today.”

FIA chairman Sunil Shah welcomed Patel and his team, saying, “Absolutely true — I share the same feelings and sentiment. It was our greatest pleasure to welcome Hemant Patel and his team to your very own event. When we celebrate our country, it is our joint event and our shared pride.”

Both organizations have stated that their mission is to serve the community, India, and the United States. Patel thanked Shah and FIA President Anu Malhotra for helping make the joint celebration possible. He also extended an invitation, alongside trustee director Dr. Bharat Barai, for them to attend FIA’s Patriotic Gala on Aug.22 and its Grand Parade on Aug.24.

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