India Tribune Newsdesk

Chicago, IL:  Some events entertain. Others inspire. And then there are those rare, radiant occasions where joy and purpose converge. On the afternoon of April 27, 2025, such a moment unfolded as Vidya Jyoti Global Education Opportunity Foundation hosted its Vibrant India Cultural Festival at Ashton Place in Chicago.

From the moment guests arrived, they were swept into a celebration of Indian heritage, creativity, and—above all—hope. The free public event pulsed with color, music, and heartfelt energy. Charismatic MCs Neha Sobti and Priyanka Parekh guided the audience through a day of vibrant performances that showcased the diversity of Indian culture. The show opened with an upbeat hip-hop act, followed by a dynamic lineup of ballet, Garba, classical Indian dances, and children spinning in joyful abandon. Groups like Suhani Dance Academy, Ghunguru School, and Four Stars Dance Group captivated the crowd with stunning choreography.

At the heart of it all was Vidya Jyoti’s mission: providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children in India, the U.S., and Haiti. Founder Pratibha Jairath took the stage to share moving stories, including that of Radhika—an orphaned child now excelling academically thanks to Vidya Jyoti’s support. “We are not just giving money,” she said with emotion. “We are giving dignity. We are building futures.”

The festival's fashion walks brought elegance and confidence to the runway, as participants of all ages modeled saris, lehengas, and Indo-Western fusion wear. The style and spirit of the participants—Swati Kukian, Suparna Dutta, Shree Guruswamy, Shraddha Marathe, and many others—lit up the room. The evening’s Title Walk honored not just appearance but voice and purpose, with Rihanna Tandon and Archana Pantraffan emerging as the winners. Judges Sanskriti Sharma, Sushma Bhanot, and Archana Agarwal applauded their grace and authenticity.

A moving segment of the program honored local community leaders and supporters. With the support of Aurora Mayor John Leash and Alderwoman Shweta Baid, Vidya Jyoti presented plaques to key sponsors and advocates including Pinky Dinesh Thakkar, Sudhir Agarwal, Dr. Ashok Mehta, and others. Additional honors went to Prem Sharma and Urmil Chawla for visionary leadership, and to Anita Beri and Sarita Sood for their unwavering commitment.

Community heroes—quiet champions who work behind the scenes—were also recognized. Honorees such as Ramesh Malhan, Pramila Malhotra, Ram Saini, and many more were celebrated in a heartfelt video presentation coordinated by technical director Shivam Viswanathan.

The festival atmosphere extended throughout the venue, with vibrant food and shopping booths curated by Anita Beri, Sarita Sood, Shree Gurusamy, Alka Sood, and Preeti Chawla. Guests enjoyed chaats, sweets, and home-style Indian cuisine while browsing handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and gifts that carried stories of their own.

Dr. Bhupinder Beri, a Vidya Jyoti advisory board member, delivered a powerful appeal: “We are fortunate because someone once invested in our education. For just $30 a month—or a dollar a day—we can offer a child that same gift. Let’s make giving a habit, not a moment.” Fellow leaders Ashok Potdar and Ramesh Mehra echoed this call, reminding the audience that knowledge is the one wealth that grows as it is shared.

Raffle draws, including a $250 grand prize, kept the excitement high. The grand finale—a joyful Garba circle—brought young and old together in a vibrant swirl of music and movement, reflecting a sense of unity and shared purpose.

As the event drew to a close, Pratibha Jairath returned to the stage. Her closing words resonated deeply: “Vidya Jyoti started with a dream in India. Today, we are helping schools in the U.S., in Haiti, and beyond. Because when we educate a child, we educate generations.”

“This was more than a cultural event. It was a radiant expression of humanity’s best,” said Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman of Asian Media USA. “Vidya Jyoti is not just teaching children—they are awakening possibilities.”

Through this joyous and meaningful celebration, Vidya Jyoti reaffirmed its unwavering mission: to educate, empower, and uplift through unity and cultural pride.

To learn more, sponsor a child, or get involved, visit www.vidya-jyoti.com.