The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago brought together families, friends, and community leaders to celebrate Mother’s Day on May 9, 2025, at The Hub. It was also an event to kick-off the upcoming celebrations of India’s Independence Day.
A meet-and-greet jumpstarted the event, complete with appetizers and family photo booths in a venue lighted in hues of soft pink and purple, designed by Anu Malhotra (President), Falguni Sukhadia and Leela Patel.
The Consul General of India in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, Illinois State Senator Laura Murphy, and Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison, addressed the audience.
Consul General Ghosh reflected on the significance of maternal strength, both at the family level, and at the national level in India amidst current global tensions. “I have a message of hope, unity, and cultural pride, urging the community to stand together and uphold the values passed on by our mothers.”
Senator Murphy spoke passionately about the nurturing spirit of mothers. Commissioner Morrison, said “When we talk about character, compassion, and citizenship, we are truly talking about the lessons we’ve learned from our mothers.”
Richa Chand and Shikha Tandon welcomed guests. Rita Shah sang two songs, reflecting the selfless love of mothers.
Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah reminded everyone that mothers are “our first teachers and our forever guides.” President Anu Malhotra, Past Presidents Vinita Gulabani, Pratibha Jairath added personal reflections on the sacrifices and strength of mothers and reminding everyone of our dual heritage.
A tribute performance followed, choreographed by Cultural Secretaries Pika Munshi and Fal Rana, a group dance that paid tribute to motherhood. In a deeply touching segment, Keerthi Reevori urged everyone to remember the mothers who are no longer with us physically, but who remain ever-present in our hearts. A candle-lighting ceremony, marked by silence and shared memories was observed.
Shah unveiled the details of FIA Chicago’s upcoming India’s 79th Independence Day Gala, to be held on August 8th, 2025. This year’s celebration would be headlined by Jatin Pandit, Bollywood composer, and his son Raahul Pandit. Ajeet Singh was introduced as the Chair of this banquet and gala. Neil Khot was officially invited to once again take the helm, to elevate the upcoming celebrations. Khot was also introduced as the candidate running for Congressman from the 8th district of Illinois.
A highlight of the evening was the Awards Ceremony, celebrating the lives and legacies of remarkable women in the community. They included Rita Shah, Vinita Gulabani, Pratibha Jairath, Dr. Sheila Dipak Shah, Anu Malhotra, Richa Chand, Sonia Luther, Purnima Makkar, and Madhu Rohatgi. Each award was presented with a brief introduction, capturing the essence of their journeys and their impact. Adding a poignant touch were the SEWA youth tributes, where children walked on stage with their mothers, offering flowers and words of gratitude; Aarush Upadhyay, Preeti Upadhyay, Jaya Varshini Gudipalli and Venkata Sai Ishaan Gudipalli with Suneetha Gudipalli, Yezdan Akthar with Sanober Jahan.
The venue, India Hub, was generously provided by Harish Kolasani who also spoke at the event. Cultural events included a group dance choreographed by Cultural Secretaries Pika Munshi and Fal Rana.
(Used under special arrangement with NIT)
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