FIA Chicago marks the beginning of India’s 76th Independence Day

Asian Media USA ©

Chicago IL: Grand India Day Parade to commemorate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav CHICAGO -August 6, 2022, Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago organized a stunning parade on Devon Avenue to celebrate India’s 75th Independence Day and to mark the beginning of a series of events to Commemorate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. Mohan Kaka, an 86-year-old Chicago resident and Khushi Patel, Miss India Worldwide 2022 led the colorful parade at Chicago’s Devon Avenue.

Rakesh Malhotra, President of the Federation of Indian Association along with Mr. Amit Kumar, the Consulate General of India in Chicago and Consul Mr. Vinod Gautam hoisted the Indian National Flag, followed by signing of Indian National Anthem by 9-year-old Vardan Tiwari, resident of Illinois.

Highlighting the significance of this year’s Parade, Rakesh Malhotra said, “We strive to bring our community together and instill a sense of belonging, thank our freedom fighters, rejoice 75 glorious years of Independent India as well as make a commitment to the younger generation for a peaceful and

prosperous future.” He also thanked the city of Chicago Police for their tireless efforts for helping the FIA by ensuring safety of everyone and smooth running of the parade. He appreciated the support from the Alderman Debra Silverstein, participating organizations, supporter, sponsors, and local business community of Devon Avenue.

Addressing the Indian Diaspora CGI, Mr. Amit Kumar said: “I wish India and Indian Community a very Happy Independence Day and congratulate the Federation of India for choosing Devon Ave Chicago as the venue for this exceptionally beautiful parade.” Star attraction at the parade Miss India

Worldwide 2022 Ms. Khushi Patel was excited to be the Parade Marshal and enjoyed marching along with the patriotic Indian community. “This is the second time in row that I participated in the parade, I feel honored to march with Indian community and celebrate Independence Day.” said Khushi Patel.

The parade featured twenty-two decorative floats, four marching groups, and three marching bands that were greeted by thousands of people lining the Devon Avenue. Several Indian American Community organizations including Maharashtra Mandal of Chicago, Gayatri Mandir Parivar , Jalaram Temple , Sri Gurudwara Sahib Devon , United Telugu Christian Community, Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MFAS) & UMAS, Zankar Beads, the State Bank of India, CK Motors, Patel Brothers , Care for Soul , Midwest Malayalam Associations , Sardar Patel Foundation, Hanuman Temple, UDUPI Palace, Tiffin Restaurant, India Saree Palace, and the Karni Sena of Chicago. The floats truly represented the diversity of the Indian American community showcasing their culture heritage, representation of their states and regions of India. “It doesn’t matter how different we are. What matters in building a community, is the desire to live in a peaceful, giving, caring and safe environment, despite all our differences.” Said Dr Ram Chakraborty founder of Chicago Kali Bari. Mrs India Worldwide 2022 RU, Best Talent, Aparna Chakravarty was the guest of honor on the Chicago’s Kali Bari Float. A beautifully decorated float of the Metropolitan Asian Family Services went past the stage chanting “Vande Mataram”. The Unity Sardar Patel Foundation float was roaring “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” Several political leaders from Chicago including Illinois State Senator Ram Villivalam, State Representative Kevin OlicKal, and Alderman Raymond Lopez also participated in the parade and congratulated the Indian diaspora. “As we stand firm and united, I have no doubt that we will continue to write many more stories of success and happiness together; said State senator Ram Villivalam. FIA Trustee Iftekhar Shareef also greeted the Indian American Community.

FIA Executive Board members including past President Raj Patel, Executive Vice President Hemant Patel, Vice President Jayesh Patel, Amar Upadhyay, Secretary Jatinder Singh Bedi, Jt. Secretary Chirag Chavda, Treasurer Vijender Doma, Jt. Treasurer Nirmala Reddy and Trustees Bhailal Patel,

Kanti N Patel, Iftekhar Shareef, Babu Marsha Patel, Anil Pillai, Sohan Joshi, and honorary Trustee Sher Rajput also marched with full enthusiasm and spirit. President, Rakesh Malhotra thanked the Trustees and the executive team for their tirelessly effort over the past several months to organize this Successful event.

Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), Chicago is the largest non-profit Indian American umbrella organization. Established in 1980, FIA was founded to primarily serve the community and promote and educate Indian Cultural Heritage while making meaningful contributions to America’s growth through various programs and cultural activities. More than 50 Illinois based community organizations and nonprofits are members of the Federation. FIA takes a lead role in bringing the community together to celebrate various events of historical importance to both the United States and India.

At the Flag Hoisting, Consul General of India Amit Kumar, President of FIA Chicago Rakesh Malhotra, Freedom Fighter Mohan Kaka, Past President of FIA Rajesh Patel, Trustee Bhailal Patel , Kanti N Patel, Vice President Amar Upadhyay , 9 year old Vardan Tiwari and Alderman Raymond Lopez

Leading the Parade Ms India Worldwide 2022 Khushi Patel, Rakesh Malhotra, FIA President, Consul General of India Amit Kumar, Mrs India Worldwide 2022 RU, Best Talent Aparna Chakravarty, FIA Trustee Bhailal Bhai, Rajesh Patel and Vijender Doma Treasurer FIA

Leading the Parade Ms India Worldwide 2022 Khushi Patel, Rakesh Malhotra, FIA President, Mrs India Worldwide 2022 RU, Best Talent Aparna Chakravarty, FIA Trustee Hina Trivedi, Rajesh Patel and Alderman Raymond Lopez

Federation of Indian Association President Rakesh Malhotra, Consul Vinod Gautam, Past President Rajesh Patel, Jt Treasure Nirmala Reddy and FIA delegate Abhinav Raina.

Holding the Indian National Flag FIA President Rakesh Malhotra, Director Joy Shah