News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (October 25, 2025 - October 31, 2025) October 31, 2025 10 Community Community Organization, Indian Seniors Of Chicago, Holds Annual Diwali Festival T he spirit of Diwali illuminated Manav Seva Mandir in Bensenville, as the Indian Seniors of Chicago, ISC, celebrated its Annual Diwali Festi- val which attracted 500 members and guests, to enjoy music, dance, and community networking. The event began with the traditional Deep Pragtya (lamp lighting ceremony), symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Chief guests Chhotalal Patel, Dahya Praj- apati, Hari Patel, Bhailal Patel, Rajendra Chauhan, joined President Dilip Patel and Narsingh Patel in performing the auspicious ritual. Treasurer Hemant Modi, in his welcome address, an- nounced that next year’s Diwali celebration will coincide with the organization’s Jubilee Year, marking a major milestone for the group. President Dilip Patel greeted guests with floral bouquets and expressed appreciation for the continued unity and dedication among senior members. Chhotalal Patel, in his keynote address, emphasized the importance of a healthy lifestyle through exercise, hydration, balanced nutrition, and positive thinking, drawing applause from attendees. The lively program was conducted by Secretary Navin Patel and Daksha Parikh. The stage came alive with a devotional Shankar Stuti, followed by a graceful dance to “Satyam Shivam Sundaram” performed by Panna Shah and Jayshree Seth. A talent show followed, featuring karaoke songs by Jay- anti Oza, Hemant Modi, Pushpa Parekh, Daksha Parikh, Ashwin Thakkar, Jashwant Seth, and Arvind Kotke. The audience cheered as performers showed their creativity and confidence. Performers were felicitated by President Dilip Patel and Vice President Kanti Patel, recognizing their dedica- tion and artistry. The musical finale featured popular singer Rajesh Cha- lam, who performed Hindi melodies that had everyone tapping their feet and singing along. The Indian Seniors of Chicago is seen as a pillar of the Chicagoland Indian community. It aims to uphold traditions and foster connections among seniors through cultural, social, and wellness activities. By Bhailal M. Patel PHOTOS: Jayanti Oza An estimated 500 members and guests of Indian Seniors of Chicago attended the Annual Diwali Festival hosted by the organization October 11, 2025, in Bensenville, Ill. The lamp lighting, Deep Pragatya, ceremony, seen from left – Kantibhai Patel, Ashwinbhai Patel, Dilip Patel, Haribhai Patel, Rajendra Chauhan, Dr. Narsinghbhai Patel Dahyabhai Prajapati, Chhotalal Patel, Bhailal Patel. Rhode Island Indians Celebrate Diwali With Governor Dan Mckee T he Foundation of Indian Americans held Diwali celebrations at the Rhode Island State House October 17, 2025, with Governor Dan McKee as the Chief Guest. The event was combined with a nod to service or seva – a Holiday Season Food Donation Drive. Governor McKee lit the ceremonial lamp and officially launched FIA’s Holiday Season Food Drive, which aims to donate over 20,000 lbs of food across Rhode Island and the New England region, a Facebook post from the organization said. In his speech, Governor McKee high- lighted the critical importance of com- munity service, especially in the face of potential government shutdowns affecting programs like SNAP and other aid initia- tives. During the event, he honored Dr. Sub- rata Das for two decades of excellence in Theater Arts, and Mohan Nannapaneni for his remarkable HumanitarianWork. He also recognized FIA’s Executive Team. The celebration opened with the sing- ing of the US and Indian national anthems by Sonali Doshi, who also emceed the pro- gram along with Mitesh Soni. Cultural performances by several troupes were the highlight of the celebra- tions. Among those who performed were Maharshi Kondvilkar, Kalakaar Nivedita Chakraborty, Padmini Dance Academy, Dancing Divas Performing Arts. FIA thanked all the attendees and spe- cial guests as well as partners who helped make the event a success, including Devendra Patil @The Treasury – Indian and Greek Kitchen, Sujata Ji, Ushadevi Ji, volunteers, and community members. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:Facebook @Abhishek Singh Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, together with several eminent dignitaries, inaugurated the event with the traditional Lighting of the Lamp ceremony October 17, 2025. Seen in photo with Nilesh Agrawal and 8 others at Rhode Island State House. Governor Dan McKee, meeting with several eminent dignitaries at the Diwali celebrations, with Rakesh Kumar and 5 others at Rhode Island State House, October 17, 2025.