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www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know Indian Community In Niles Township, Ill., Celebrates 150th Anniversary Of “Vande Mataram” And US’ 250th I n a display of cultural pride and unity, the Indian- American community of Niles Township hosted a cel- ebration commemorating two historic milestones— the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram” and the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event brought together a distinguished gathering of dignitar- ies, community leaders, families, and youth in a vibrant tribute to freedom, democracy, and shared heritage. A Celebration of Heritage and Shared Values:At the heart of the program was a moving tribute to “Vande Mataram,” the iconic national song composed by Ban- kim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875. Revered as a symbol of India’s spiritual awakening and freedom struggle, the song continues to inspire generations worldwide. This historic milestone was celebrated alongside the United States’ remarkable 250-year journey, rooted in the enduring principles of liberty, equality, and democratic governance. Together, these two legacies created a mean- ingful bridge between India and America—two nations united by shared ideals and aspirations. Distinguished Voices and Community Leadership:The evening was enriched by insightful remarks from re- spected leaders and dignitaries: Rohit Joshi, President, warmly welcomed attendees and emphasized unity within the Indian diaspora. Hon. Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India in Chicago, highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy and the Indian diaspora’s vital role in strengthening India–U.S. relations. Harish Kolasani spoke passionately about community empowerment and preserving cultural identity. Usha Kamaria reflected on the importance of passing traditions to future genera- tions. Dr. Rashmi Patel emphasized education, youth engagement, and provided an update on the Mokshdham project. The event was made possible with the generous sup- port of Chief Sponsor Ashok Pandya. AVibrant Cultural Showcase:The celebration reflected the spirit of both nations, including:Collective singing of “Vande Mataram”, traditional music and dance perfor- mances, youth participation and cultural presentations. The dual commemoration conveyed the message that while “Vande Mataram” symbolizes India’s resilience and awakening, the United States’ 250-year journey reflects the enduring strength of democracy and freedom. To- gether, they represent a shared vision of unity in diversity. The program concluded with a renewed commitment from the community to uphold these values and contin- ue building stronger cultural and civic bridges between the two nations. The Indian Community of Niles Township is a dynamic and influential cultural organization serving the Indian- American diaspora across Chicagoland, including Skokie, Morton Grove, Glenview, and Schaumburg. The organiza- tion is dedicated to promoting cultural heritage, commu- nity unity, and civic engagement while fostering strong connections between generations. Executive Committee:President: Rohit Joshi Vice Presi- dent: Amar Upadhyay Secretary: Smitesh Shah Treasurer: Hirit Pandya Jr. Secretary: Bhanubhai Vyas Jr. Treasurer: Bhavik Patel Distinguished guests at the event included Chief Guest: Consul General of India, Chicago Somnath Ghosh, Guests of Honor Mafatbhai Patel, Dr. Bharat Barai, Ashok Pandya, Harish Kolasani, Dr. Vijay Prabhakar, Dr. Rashmi Patel, Bhailal M Patel, Sohan Joshi, Hemant Patel (FIA since 1980), Sunil Shah (FIA) Dr. Manish Bhrambhatt, Santosh Kumar, Vinesh Virani, Pinakin Desai. By Bhailal M. Patel PHOTOS:ORGANIZERS Harish Kolasani,Usha Kamaria,Consul General Somnath Ghosh (Consulate General of India, Chicago),Rohit Joshi,Dr Rashami Patel, Ashok Pandya. Vande Mataram being sung by Swapnil Sahu and Avnie Singh. Punjabi Cultural Society Of Chicago Hosts Rangla Punjab 2026 T he Punjabi Cultural Society of Chi- cago (PCS), www.PCSChicago.org, recently hosted its premier Vaisakhi celebration, “Rangla Punjab 2026,” at the Copernicus Center in Chicago on April 25, 2026. More than 300 youth partici- pated in 27 stage performances in front of an audience of more than 800 attendees, who filled the auditorium and the lobby. This flagship event showcased Punjabi heritage through performing arts, includ- ing bhangra, giddha, folk music, poetry, and artistic unity, delivered by a dedicated ensemble of local community youth. The “Rangla Punjab” event attracted several attendees from across the region and was widely commended for its family-friendly atmosphere, organiza- tional quality, and authentic promotion of culture. The event was led by PCSC President Bikram Singh Sohi, (Chief Operating Officer at Pampered Chef), and Chairwoman Dr. Primal Kaur, MD, MBA, (Senior Vice President of Global Development at AbbVie). The PCSC team curated a program that harmonized tradition with contemporary celebration, community building, and artistic excellence—earning recognition from dignitaries and attendees, a press release from organizers said. Program sponsors included Grand Sponsors Amarjit Singh Dhindsa and Lakhbir Singh Dhindsa, Platinum Sponsor Jaidev Singh Bhattal, and Gold Sponsors Gulzar Singh Multani and Dr. Harjinder Singh Khaira, Gurinder- jit Singh Grewal, Ranbir Singh Dhaliwal, Sukhmel Singh Atwal, and Sher-E-Punjab Sports and Cultural Club Chicago. Silver Sponsors and Bronze Sponsors including Patel Brothers, and other local organizations and busi- nesses. Chief Guest Darshan Singh Dhaliwal, entrepre- neur and philanthropist, was unable to attend due to unexpected travel commitments. PCSCVice President Gurlal Singh Bhattal welcomed the audience, initiating the program with the U.S. Nation- al Anthem performed by Mini Singh and a youth-led shabad organized by Param- vir Kaur and Tejveer Singh Soodan. A moment of silence honored the late Sunny Singh Kular, a longstanding PCSC official who passed away last year. Winners of the PCSC Declamation Contest 2025 and PCSC Drawing Contest 2026 were recognized and their achieve- ments featured in the event program book. President Sohi announced the acqui- sition of a facility in Palatine, Illinois, designated as the first Punjabi Commu- nity Center in the Midwest. This center will serve as a hub for community events, performing arts training, educational lec- tures, seminars, workshops, and meetings. “Having our own space will certainly help us expand our work on many fronts,” said PCSC chairwoman Dr. Primal Kaur.” Contributions for the community center may be submitted via Zelle at info@PCSChicago.org . Stage presentations were emceed by Kirandeep Kaur, Gurnaaz Sohi, Reet Sidhu, Harnoor Sidhu, Kabir Virk, Jaskirat Singh, and Navpreet Singh. Notable musical per- formances included Punjabi folk songs by Aditi Vij, Anika Vij, Lajwinder Kaur Gill, and Surinder Singh Sethi, along with a poetic recitation by Rakind Kaur. By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:ASIAN MEDIA USA Children performing Bhangra at Rangla Punjab 2026. Community News India Times (May 2, 2026 - May 8, 2026) May 8, 2026 9