Chicago, IL:
On a vibrant Saturday evening, April 18, 2026, at the elegant Ashton Place in Willowbrook, Illinois, The Indian American Charitable Foundation (IAMA-CF) and Indian American Medical Association of Illinois (IAMA-IL) came together in a dazzling fusion of professional excellence, cultural pride, and heartfelt community service. The annual banquet transformed into a memorable night of recognition, inspiration, and celebration, where 375 physicians, families, and supporters gathered to honor decades of dedication to medicine and humanity.

The evening kicked off with a warm Social Hour and Exhibitor Display from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, setting a convivial tone as attendees networked, explored health-related exhibits, and caught up with colleagues. The cultural spark ignited at 6:15 PM with a graceful Kuchipudi Dance Performance by talented young artist Aashna Golla, whose fluid movements and expressive storytelling beautifully bridged traditional Indian artistry with the modern American experience.

At 6:30 PM, the program paid a touching tribute to the Lifetime Free Pharmacy recognition awarded to Dr. Asok Ray & Family, acknowledging their enduring commitment to accessible healthcare.

The formal proceedings unfolded under the polished guidance of Master of Ceremonies Dr. Rajan Shah and Dr. Poonam Merai. The national anthems resonated powerfully, performed with pride by Dr. Radhika Chimata and Dr. Samir Shah, evoking a deep sense of unity between the Indian and American identities that define this vibrant community.

This was followed by a spectacular and informative Video including history and address by many founding members and key leaders. The welcome address by President Dr. Samir Shah was heartwarming and dynamic, highlighting significant transformation of IAMA Charitable clinic in 2025-2026. Dr. Shah passionately outlined the foundation's impactful work, including the Seva Community Health Clinic that provides free medical services to those in need in the Chicago area. The most notable progress includes expanding the Clinic hours to 6 days per week, addition of Women’s Health clinic, Community Health seminars, enhanced website and ability to do Tele Health visits significantly improving access and services to patients.

The highlight of the evening arrived with the Chief Guest, Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, President of the American Medical Association (AMA). As the first physician of Indian heritage to lead the AMA, Dr. Mukkamala brought national stature and personal inspiration to the gathering. His presence underscored the growing influence of Indian American physicians in shaping healthcare policy and advocacy at the highest levels.

Dr. Subrahmanyam Dravida (Subra) , President of EKAL-USA, served as the Keynote Speaker. Known for his visionary leadership in technology and his dedication to rural education and development in India through Ekal Vidyalaya initiatives, Dr. Dravida delivered an eloquent address that connected the dots between medical service, education, and community empowerment. His words resonated deeply, inspiring attendees to think beyond clinical practice toward broader societal impact. Dr. Meher Medavaram, President of IAMA-IL, delivered an inspiring presidential address, highlighting the organization's ongoing mission to support Indian American physicians, advance medical excellence, and serve underserved populations through the free community health clinic operated by IAMA-CF.

Dr. Tapan Parikh, the Secretary of IAMA-IL conducted a semiannual meeting and elected two members from IAMA Membership for participation for Nominating Committee for 2026. The heart of the night belonged to the Awards Ceremony, which shone a well-deserved spotlight on extraordinary contributions:

· Lifetime Achievement Award – Dr. Thomas John

· Distinguished Physician Award – Dr. Ngozi Ezike

· IAMA-CF Lifetime Support Recognition – Late Dr. Usharani Nimmagadda; Family (a poignant posthumous honor celebrating enduring family legacy in service)

· IAMA-CF Service; Recognition Awards – Dr. Bharati Swaminathan, Dr. Shami Goyat, Mr. Rajesh Chotalia, and Dr. Prema Malani

These honorees represent the very best of the Indian American medical community physicians and supporters who have healed patients, mentored the next generation, volunteered countless hours at the free clinic, and strengthened the bonds of the diaspora through selfless service. The awards ceremony was not just a list of names but a powerful reminder of how individual dedication multiplies into collective impact.

Mrs. Nusrat Ahmed-Secretary of IAMA-CF, delivered a gracious Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all organizers, sponsors, performers, and attendees whose efforts made the evening possible.

As the formal program concluded, the celebration continued with a sumptuous dinner followed by Live DJ and Entertainment starting at 8:30 PM. The cultural program added layers of joy and nostalgia:

· Tarana Dance Academy brought energetic and colorful performances.

· Sadhana School of Indian Music filled the hall with soul-stirring melodies by Ms. Vidhi Patel and Ms. Khushi Jain.

· Yadoki Barat delighted the crowd with popular movie songs.

· Chicago Versatile Singers, featuring Mr. Rajesh Chalam closed the night on a high note with heartfelt renditions that had everyone singing along and dancing.

The seamless blend of professional recognition and vibrant cultural expressions created an atmosphere where medicine met melody, and service met celebration. This event was more than a gala; it was a testament to the resilience, compassion, and cultural richness of the Indian American medical fraternity in Illinois.

For over three decades, IAMA-IL and IAMACF have stood as pillars of support for physicians while quietly transforming lives through free healthcare services. The 2026 banquet reinforced their vital role in bridging communities, advocating for better health policies, and nurturing the next generation of healers. In an era when healthcare faces unprecedented challenges, events like this remind us that unity, legacy, and joyful service remain the strongest prescriptions for a healthier society.

As Chairman and Founder of Asian Media USA, I am continually inspired by the remarkable journey of the Indian American medical community. A great example of how professional excellence and cultural heritage can harmoniously coexist to create meaningful change. Honoring legends like Dr. Thomas John and supporting vital initiatives through the free clinic reflects the true spirit of “SEVA” and Selfless service. Congratulations to Banquet Chair Mr. Kishore Chugh and the Banquet Committee Team, Board of Directors, Executive Director Dr. Vilasini Shetty and support staff for making this evening memorable and successful. In today’s complex world, such gatherings not only celebrate achievements but also strengthen the bonds that allow our community to thrive and give back. Congratulations to all awardees, organizers, and participants. May this legacy of healing and unity continue to illuminate brighter futures for generations to come.

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Service to Underserved (SEVA) Indian American Physicians Celebrate Legacy, Leadership, and Harmony in Healing