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– BARTLETT, Ill.
Close to 1,500 people showed up to celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent electoral triumph at the gala hosted by the Vishwa Gujarati Samaj USA (VGS) on August 17 afternoon at the Jain Center here. Among the invited guests were Consul General of India Ausaf Sayeed, Illinois State Senator Jim Oberwise and Cook County Commissioner Timothy Schneider.
The highlight was a photo exhibition on Modi’s life-story that was the backdrop to a cultural program drawing on themes of India Independence Day, Krishna Janmashtami, Bollywood and more. VGS President Naren Patel brought together multiple regional, ethnic, religious, trade, philanthropic, cultural and media organizations under a shared umbrella for this celebration of India, the Asian Media USA press release said.
Community service awards were presented to Dr. Madhuvanti Ghose, Alsdorf Associate Curator of Indian, Southeast Asian, Himalayan and Islamic Art at the Art Institute; Dr. Beejal Amin, neurosurgeon at Loyola Hospital; and Valjibhai Patel from Splash Graphics.
The program included Odissi classical dance, Raas, Garba, patriotic dances and a special performance by Dance-India-Dance artiste and President Award winner Kamlesh Patel, who also delivered an inspiring speech. Families waiting in line at the photo-booth to capture souvenirs with the cut-out image of Modi.
Beena Patel and Vandana Jhingan served as emcees. Beena began with the song “Nand Gher Anand Bhayo, Jai Kanaiya Lal Ki” that was chorused enthusiastically by the audience. Nishal Patel sang the American national anthem and Anand from Bollywood Entertainment sang the Indian national anthem.
Naren Patel, in his welcome speech, reaffirmed his faith in Prime Minister Modi’s vision and leadership. Popularly known as “Mayor of Devon,” event chair Mafat Patel, who hails from the same district in Gujarat as Modi, echoed Naren Patel’s sentiments.
Dr. Yash Amin was the architect and brains behind the victory exhibition. Shashi Patel, Sajawat, Arlington Rental and Dream Occasions were recognized for their creative decoration of the venue. Varsha M. Patel helped ensure safe keeping of all the art effects that were displayed. Bhavana Modi provided the entertainment and catering. Kishore Chugh and Piyush Patel assisted in planning the event, the press release said
