News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (July 11, 2026 - July 17, 2026) July 17, 2026 10 Community Indian Americans Join America’s 250th Independence Day Parade In Skokie, Schaumburg, Ill. F ederation of Indian Associations (FIA-Chicago Estd.1980) Leads Twin Celebrations in Skokie and Schaum- burg as Hundreds Honor America’s Semiquincentennial Despite Heat, Storms, and Flooding. The Indian-American community across Chicagoland celebrated one of the most significant milestones in American history displaying their patriotism, unity, and gratitude. The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-Chicago), together with dozens of leading community organizations, commemorated the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America. The historic celebration paid tribute to the nation’s founding ideals of liberty, democracy, equality, and oppor- tunity while recognizing the invaluable contributions of Indian Americans to the American story. The day’s festivities began with the Skokie Independence Day Parade, one of the largest community celebrations in the region, where more than 79 ethnic, civic, cultural, nonprofit, and business organi- zations took part. Later in the evening, despite severe thunderstorms and challenging weather conditions, community members gath- ered once again at India Hub in Schaum- burg for a special celebration. The event was jointly supported by numerous organizations, including ICNT, India Hub, Sewa International, Ekal Vidya- laya Foundation, Maharashtra Mandal, United Senior Pariwar, MAFS, UMAS, Care For Soul, Dynasty Care, Happy Hearts, and many other FIA member organizations. The celebration brought together an impressive gathering of community lead- ers, volunteers, and public servants who have dedicated themselves to strengthen- ing both the Indian-American community and the broader American society. Among those participating were FIA Chicago President Hemant Patel, Trustee Rakesh Malhotra, ICNT President and FIA Vice President Rohit Joshi, FIA Executive Vice President Anil Singh, Treasurer Amar Upadhyay, Vice Presidents Bhavesh Shah and Joy Shah, Secretary Arvind Anklesh- varia, Joint Treasurer Yashaswini Desai, FIA Chairman Sunil Shah, President Richa Shah, Hitesh Gandhi, Hemendra Shah, Chetan Rege of Maharashtra Mandal, Dipti Desai of Sewa International, Usha Kamaria, Virendra Patel, Jagdish Hingu, Devendra Patel, Harish Topiwala of Hanu- man Mandir, Nitin Surti of VHP-A, Phani Krishna of IDC, Harshad Shah of Jain Mandir, Prakash Anturkar of HSS, Jyotin- dra Dalia, Dinesh Dalia, photographer Jay Kishan, Sewa volunteers, and many other distinguished community leaders and vol- unteers representing organizations from across the Chicagoland area. Nature presented significant challenges throughout the day. Temperatures reached nearly 82 degrees Fahrenheit during the afternoon parade, while powerful thun- derstorms, torrential rainfall, and local- ized flooding disrupted travel across the region later in the evening. Several roads were temporarily closed because of flood- ing, making transportation difficult for many participants. The obstacles failed to diminish the community’s desire to participate. Fami- lies, seniors, youth, and volunteers contin- ued their engagement in the events. Speaking during the celebration, FIA Chicago President Hemant Patel delivered a thoughtful message emphasizing the deeper meaning of Independence Day beyond fireworks and festivities. “Patriotic festivals should be a tribute, a reflection, and a commitment to those who secured our freedom. Freedom is never free—it comes through sacrifice. Our heroes gave us the opportunity to enjoy liberty every day of the year. If we dedicate just two days to remember- ing their sacrifices, we honor the priceless gift they left for future generations. Preserving free- dom is even more challenging than achieving it.” Patel further reminded attendees that democracy requires constant vigilance and responsible citizenship. He noted that while democratic societies value open- ness and freedom, those freedoms must always be protected from forces that seek to weaken democratic institutions. The celebration also reflected the unique identity of the Indian-American community as participants carried Ameri- can flags alongside symbols representing India’s rich cultural traditions, in a bid to show that love for one’s ancestral home- land complements, rather than diminish- es, devotion to one’s adopted nation. Throughout the day, community mem- bers expressed gratitude for the freedoms guaranteed by the United States Consti- tution and acknowledged the countless servicemen and women, first respond- ers, and generations of Americans whose sacrifices have preserved those freedoms for 250 years. By Bhailal M. Patel PHOTOS:NATIONAL INDIA HUB Indian Americans participating in the Inddpendence Day parade July 4, America’s 250th, in Skokie, Illinois. Hemant Patel, President of FIA Chicago, leads the Indian American contingent in Skokie’s parade. Shah Rukh Khan Unveils New Cricket Stadium In Los Angeles S uperstar Shah Rukh Khan and his Knight Riders Group (KRG) of- ficially unveiled a new world-class cricket stadium at the Fairplex in Pomona, Los Angeles, California. The new venue is set to host cricket matches during the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, making it an important step for the sport’s growth in the country. The actor, who co-owns the Los An- geles Knight Riders franchise, shared his happiness on social media as a project that started as a “dream” finally became a reality. Calling it a place for sports, enter- tainment and families, SRK also thanked everyone who supported the journey. “What started as a dream… turns into reality today. Welcoming you all to the Knight Riders Cricket Ground, LA. A place built not just for sports but also entertainment and for families… and memories that last forever. Special thanks to Jaybhai who has been too kind through this journey @JayShah, & @ICC and @Sanjog_G for being so supportive.” “This is for LA, for cricket fans across the globe, and for the Knight Riders fam- ily. Believe in Purple and Gold. Welcome to the home of @LA_KnightRiders,” he added. The Knight Riders Cricket Ground in Pomona County, Los Angeles, is also set to host its first-ever competitive cricket match today. The venue will also become the home ground of the Los Angeles Knight Riders and will stage the franchise’s first-ever home match in Major League Cricket. - ANI PHOTO:ANI,X.COM @IMSRK Shah Rukh Khan left. Cricket ground in Los Angeles, right.