CHICAGO: Bharatiya Senior Citizens of Chicago hosted a splendid Diwali Dinner Celebration with BSC members, guests and Chicago community leaders on Saturday, November 9 at India House Banquet, Schaumburg.
The evening was full of exciting short speeches, live entertainment, spectacular cocktail reception, dazzling decoration, Indian food, cultural programs and vibrant dances. Over 900 members and guests attended the event who were greeted with Diwali messages from a large number Illinois politicians and Governor Bruce Raune.
Rakshika Anjaria, BSC Secretary Emceed the event gracefully and to the delight of all present. The event started around early evening hours with a spectacular cocktail reception, lasting for almost an hour and half. BSC families and friends greeted each other with warmth enjoying mouth watering Indian appetizers.
Right after that there was Ganesh Vandana followed by traditional lamp lighting ceremony. The Diyas were lighted by respected community leaders Mafatbhai Patel, Naren Patel, Shali Kumar, Dr. Bharat Barai, Dr. Umang Patel, Jasbir Suga & Gordhan Patel who were greeted with a thumping applause from the audience.
The welcome speech was given by BSC president Haribhai Patel, who wished everybody Happy Diwali and New Year.
There were speeches from the guests and this was followed by the cultural program, Bollywood performances by second generation Indian artists. The night was full of entertainment. Biggest attraction of the night was dance tribute to Michael Jackson by signature group London featuring Suleman Mirza and Madhu Singh.
Srujan Dance Academy students performed Raas which was choreographed by Swati Shah. Taal Masti Group (Radha Modi) of Chicago arranged Bollywood dance from Ada group. Aradhya Dance Academy students performed Rajasthani folk dance with choreography by Shetal Parikh.
The Dinner break was announced for a very lavish Indian food and was followed by Live entertainment by Melody Makers of Manpasand Inc. The dance floor was open.
At the conclusion of the event Bhagwanjibhai Patel won round trip ticket of Air India and Manjuben Hirpara won round trip ticket of Etihad Airlines presented by Air Tours. With support of Air Tours, Masti Cruise, Manpasand and BSC complete Indian cruise was announced with Bollywood entertainment in 2015 August.
Jayanti Ojha
