India Tribune Newsdesk
Chicago, IL – On October 20, 2025, the grand rotunda of Chicago City Hall glowed with more than architectural brilliance. The spirit of Diwali—the Festival of Lights—infused the space with warmth, joy, and unity. Hosted by Mayor Brandon Johnson in collaboration with the Indian American Business Council, the event transformed 121 N. LaSalle Street into a radiant mosaic of cultures, colors, and compassion. Against the backdrop of global unrest, Chicago’s celebration stood as a testament to the enduring triumph of light over darkness.
The evening began with the traditional Lamp Lighting Ceremony, symbolizing the heart of Diwali’s message—victory of light, knowledge, and hope. Ajeet Singh, President of the Indian American Business Council, led the ritual alongside Mayor Johnson; Consul General of India Somnath Ghosh; City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Irvin; Alderwoman Shweta Baid of Aurora; Alderman David Moore; and other community dignitaries. Together, they kindled lamps that illuminated more than the hall—it lit a sense of shared humanity.
The ceremony soon gave way to rhythm and celebration as Ajanta Chakraborty and her dance team infused the room with lively performances and interactive energy. Their graceful choreography bridged tradition and modern festivity, inviting guests to move and celebrate together.
Mayor Brandon Johnson, addressing the gathering, reaffirmed his deep commitment to Chicago’s cultural inclusivity. “As long as I’m mayor, we will always host the Diwali celebration at City Hall,” he declared to thunderous applause. He praised the city’s diversity as its defining strength and commended the Indian American community for enriching Chicago’s civic and cultural fabric. “Now more than ever, we need peace and joy,” he said, emphasizing that the festival’s light should guide Chicago as a beacon of inclusion, prosperity, and dignity.
Amid the festivities, Mayor Johnson joined the dancers with dandiya sticks in hand, moving to the infectious beats alongside Consul General Somnath Ghosh and other officials. Their spirited participation symbolized the evening’s essence—leaders and citizens dancing together under one light.
Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Irvin shared her heartfelt greetings, reminding everyone that “diversity is our strength—our superpower.” Turning to the young attendees, she added, “You embody the world’s goodness.” She lauded the event’s organizers for their efforts to build bridges across communities, remarking, “Today yours, tomorrow mine.”
Consul General Somnath Ghosh’s words carried poetic grace. “Namaste—happy Diwali,” he began, thanking the city and organizers for their partnership. “Even the smallest Diwali flame dispels the deepest darkness,” he said, urging reflection on inner light and unity amid challenges. His message resonated deeply—an invitation to nurture compassion in a divided world.
Ajeet Singh expressed gratitude to Mayor Johnson for his steadfast support, noting that this was the fourth consecutive Diwali hosted under his leadership. “Each year outshines the last,” Singh remarked, calling the Indian American community “forever indebted for your generosity.”
Closing the evening, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Chair of the Indian American Business Council, thanked the Mayor and Consul General for embodying the true spirit of Diwali. The event concluded on a high note with warm applause for emcee Ajanta Chakraborty, whose eloquence and energy carried the evening seamlessly.
Under the glowing lamps of City Hall, Diwali’s light did more than shine—it united. In a city defined by its diversity, Chicago once again proved that its brightest strength lies in the celebration of all its people.
