News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know Seniors’ Association- FISANA- Celebrates Silver Jubilee T he Federation of Indo-American Seniors Associa- tion of North America (FISANA) held its Silver Jubilee celebration Saturday November 1, 2025, at Royal Albert’s Palace, Fords, New Jersey. Among the elected officials who attended were Mayor ofWoodbridge John E. McCormac, and Edison Mayor Sam Joshi. Piyush Patel, chair of FISANA, spoke of his vision to have a central database, and to have a dedicated call line that seniors could get help from in times of need. Dr. Sudhir Parikh thanked Suresh Patel for organiz- ing the event and noted the elaborate decorations symbolizing India’s culture and credited FISANA with making its voice heard. Dr. Parikh was the first chair- man of FISANA and was recognized for his service. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:Raja Bhatty,ITV Gold Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media, being honored at FISANA event Nov. 1, 2025., as Suresh Patel, right, president of FISANA looks on. Mayor of Edison, NJ Sam Joshi, center, and officials and special guests at the FISANA Silver Jubilee celebrations November 1, 2025, in New Jersey. Piyush Patel, left, and Suresh Patel of FISANA at the Silver Jubilee of the organization Nov. 1, 2025, in New Jersey. Woodbridge Mayor John E. McCormac being honored at the FISANA Silver Jubilee event November 1, 2025, in Royal Albert’s Palace, Fords, NJ. FIA Chicago Celebrates Diwali, Announces New Executive Team T he Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago celebrated the Festival of Lights at its An- nual Board Meeting and Diwali Gala on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Chi- cago SW, Burr Ridge, hosted by hotelier Vishal Thakkar. Themed “Sitare Zameen Par: Desi Treats & Diwali Lights,” the event included Bollywood glamour, cultural perfor- mances, and the unveiling of FIA’s newly elected execu- tive team of 2026. More than 150 distinguished guests, dignitaries, and community leaders filled the ballroom. The lively beats of Mehul Adhikari’s dhol infused the venue with festive cheer. FIA Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah welcomed ev- eryone and wished them a Happy Diwali. “FIA stands to- day as the largest and most dynamic Indian organization in Chicagoland — a symbol of unity, service, and celebra- tion,” he said, commending President Anu Malhotra for her leadership. “Anu has been one of the most outstand- ing presidents FIA has ever had,” Shah added, earning a standing ovation. Shah also acknowledged past leaders including Mukesh Shah, Rita Singh, Dr. Kamal Patel, Onkar Singh Sangha, Hitesh Gandhi, Pratibha Jairath, and Vinita Gulabani, and extended special appreciation to Vice Chairman Neil Khot for his dedication and his ongoing congressional campaign in Illinois’ 8th District. Taking the stage to resounding applause, President Anu Malhotra thanked her team, saying, “Together, we didn’t just host events —we created memories built on teamwork, trust, and community love.” She highlighted FIA’s record-breaking year with a presenta- tion showcasing cultural events, Independence Day parades, and health camps. Malhotra honored 27 vol- unteers as “FIA Ambassadors,” with special recognition to Falguni Sukhadia for her exceptional service. Vice Chairman Neil Khot commended Malhotra’s leadership and reiterated his commitment to public service, earning enthusiastic support from attendees. The highlight of the evening was the formal intro- duction of the FIA DreamTeam 2026. For the first time, FIA appointed dual presidents — Altaf Bukhari and Richa Chand — a widely applauded move. The new leadership team includes Senior Executive VP Sonia Luther, Executive VPs Chintan Patel, Ajanta Sharma, and By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:Ramesh Punatar,courtesyFIA Chicago Anu Malhotra (President), Neil Khot (Vice Chairman), Richa Chand (President Elect), Altaf Bukhari (President Elect), Sunil Shah (Founder & Chairman). News India Times (November 8, 2025 - November 14, 2025) November 14, 2025 6 Community - Continued On Page 7