The Consulate General of India in Chicago hosted its annual flagship event, Kala Utsav, at Naperville’s Yellow Box Theatre as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The event spotlighted India’s rich heritage and diverse culture, featuring performances by various cultural troupes from the US Midwest region.
At the inauguration, Consul General of India in Chicago, Somnath Ghosh, along with Congressman Bill Foster and State Senator Laura Ellman, addressed an audience of six hundred. Consul General Ghosh expressed gratitude to dignitaries, Indian American organizations, and friends of India, emphasizing the event’s aim to support youth and emerging artists.
The Consulate aims to enhance Indian-American cultural ties through more events and collaborations with organizations, according to CGI Ghosh. He underscored India’s unity in diversity as its fundamental strength, despite the multitude of languages, cultures, and religions.
The event showcased diverse Indian dance styles, including classical and folk forms. Performances included sitar and tabla by Shreekant Shah and Sutanu Sur, Bharatanatyam by Nrithya Sangeeth and Natya Dance Theater, Bhangra by Bhangra Rhymes Chicago, and folk dance by the Association of Haryanvis in America. The event also featured fusion performances by Kalapadma Dance Academy, Shirlzar Dance Co., and I-Radha dance group.
Sponsoring mementos for the participating teams was the State Bank of India, Chicago. The event was organized with contributions from various Indian American groups such as The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, Arya Samaj of Chicago, North America Manipur Association, and individuals.
