India Tribune Newsdesk
Chicago: Continuing its grand tradition of celebrating India’s Independence Day, FIA-Chicago, on August 22, hosted a spectacular Patriotic Gala at Manav Seva Mandir, that stirred hearts and echoed with love for Bharat. The event, drenched in patriotism, unfolded with moving tributes, cultural brilliance, and powerful messages of unity. Every detail—from the vibrant posters and stage décor to soul-stirring performances and speeches—radiated the spirit of freedom and Indian pride.
The evening began on a solemn note, with a moment of silence to honor the 26 lives lost in Pahalgam, targeted solely for their religion. This was followed by the traditional Diya Prajvalan, the Indian and American national anthems, and the stirring rendition of Vande Mataram. What followed set the emotional tone for the night—a poignant Kuchipudi performance by Divya Prakashini on “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon.” As the music swelled and emotions ran high, FIA President Hemant Patel was visibly moved. With tears in his eyes, he rushed to the stage holding a portrait of Bharat Mata and invited several military officials and veterans—Flight Lieutenant Sanjay Sharma, Rakesh Asthana, Captain Preeti Gupta, Deepak Saxena, Arvind Ankleshwaria, and others—to join him in a deeply symbolic tribute to their service.
The program also featured a special documentary marking FIA Chicago’s 45-year journey, celebrating its vibrant contributions to the Midwest’s cultural and community landscape. Illinois State Senator Michelle Mussman addressed the gathering, applauding the Indian American community’s continued involvement and thanking President Hemant Patel for spearheading such a dynamic event.
Former FIA President and Trustee Rakesh Malhotra introduced Hemant Patel with pride, highlighting FIA’s evolving mission of inclusivity and forward-thinking. In his keynote speech, Patel paid homage to freedom fighters and celebrated the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in his 150th birth anniversary year. He reflected on India’s ancient contributions to the world—from mathematics and astronomy to yoga and science—and emphasized India’s modern resurgence despite centuries of invasion and colonialism. He spoke of India's rise as the world’s fourth-largest economy, a strong military power, and a spacefaring nation that has reached both the Moon and Mars. He also praised Operation Sindoor for eliminating hundreds of terrorists and called for global unity to combat religious extremism and promote peace.
Patel extended heartfelt thanks to the audience, over 60 member organizations, sponsors, youth performers, media partners, and dignitaries including Consul General Somnath Ghosh and many others. He also acknowledged the young volunteers and performers for their tireless efforts in preserving cultural heritage.
As a tribute to the Ironman of India, Sardar Patel, a special video presentation showcased his life and legacy. In a final display of unity, business leaders, organization heads, and community figures joined together on stage to hold a massive 15-foot banner reading “WE ARE ONE.”
Representative of Congressman Danny Davis honored Hemant Patel with an award for his unwavering community services, his courage and dedication, noting his commitment to truth even when it led to social backlash.
FIA launched its annual souvenir magazine, filled with greetings, articles, and community messages. Emcee Nimisha Patel led the program seamlessly, with vibrant cultural performances by Vrinda Pandav, Divya Prakashini, Mihir Acharya, Darshna Patel, DJ Chirag Patel, and Phani Krishna lighting up the stage.
FIA executives Anil Singh, Joy Shah, Rohit Joshi, Shailesh Rajput, Amar Upadhyay, and Arvind Ankleswaria presented certificates of appreciation to community members and volunteers. The gala concluded on a high note with a patriotic musical segment, where Mihir Acharya and Darshna Patel brought the crowd to its feet in celebration of freedom, unity, and the enduring spirit of Bharat.
