On October 26, 2024, Indian seniors from Chicago gathered for their annual celebration and Diwali festivities at Manav Seva Mandir in Bensenville, Illinois. With around 430 attendees, including both members and guests, the event was organized by Bhupendra Suthar and Daxa Parikh, who created an atmosphere of joy and unity.
Panna Shah, an Executive Board member, shared insights on the 24-year history of the Indian Seniors of Chicago, highlighting the organization’s journey and community involvement. Distinguished guests, including Manav Seva Mandir Trustee Chairman Dahyabhai Prajapati, President Raju Chauhan, and several board members such as Shirish Patel, Narsinh Patel, Bhailal Patel, Rohit Joshi, and Ishwar Patel, took part in the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing light over darkness.
Dahyabhai Prajapati discussed ongoing programs at Manav Seva Mandir and addressed the need for future fundraising to aid minority communities in Bangladesh, emphasizing collective support for social causes. Dilip Patel and Raju Chauhan extended Diwali greetings to everyone present, while Dilip Patel honored the guests with bouquets as a gesture of appreciation.
The celebration also featured an engaging musical segment introduced by Daxa Parikh. The SAREGAMA musical group brought vibrant energy to the gathering, filling the hall with Bollywood tunes that got even the 70+ seniors up and dancing. The musical program was followed by a break for tea, allowing attendees to relax and mingle.
After the break, Navin Patel and Kanti Patel led a ceremony to honor the event’s donors and sponsors, presenting them with flowers and small gifts. In a heartfelt gesture, Kanti Patel also expressed thanks on behalf of the group.
The second half of the celebration continued with a lively Bollywood performance, bringing members to the dance floor as they celebrated Diwali with joy. As the event concluded, Daxa Parikh and Panna Shah recognized the singers and musicians for their performances, presenting them with gifts and flowers, marking a memorable end to the Diwali celebration.
