CHICAGO. IL: The Indian American Cultural Association (IACA) celebrated its Gala Event on Sunday, September 10th, 2023, at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, IL. The event was a celebration of unity in diversity and cultural pride, with diverse cultural troupes showcasing their talents on stage. The event also marked the formation of the Youth IACA Club, aimed at educating children about Indian and American cultures and involving them in volunteering services in the community.
The highlight of the event was the honoring of heroes for their immense bravery, dedication, and service to the community. Among the veterans and law enforcement officers honored were Mr. Raj Pillai, US Navy Veteran, Mr. James Mendrick, DuPage County Sheriff, Mr. Kevin Coyne, Founder and CEO of Safe Suburbs USA, Mr. Mike Geiger, Naperville Police Officer, Mr. James “Casta” Castaneda, US Marines Veteran, Mr. Michael Tellerino, Founder and CEO of K9’s for Veterans, and Mr. Jerome “Sonny” Zdancewicz, US Army Veteran (7th Cavalry Regiment).
The event was graced by dignitaries from the Chicagoland area, including Consul Mr. Vinod Gautam, Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, FIA Founder/President Mr. Sunil Shah, Vandana Jhingan Ji, Mrs. Meghna Bansal -Trustee, Wheatland Township, Mr. Ajit Pant, Mr. Rakesh Malhotra, Mrs. Madhu Uppal, Mr. Haribhai Patel Ji, Dr. Umang Patel Ji, and Mrs. Neel Patel-Assistant Director, Ray Graham Association.
The event also featured mesmerizing performances by Udaan Entertainment from Mumbai, whose orchestral performance was beyond excellence and touched everyone’s heart. The evening started with the Indian and American National Anthems sung by Nipa Shah and Samaira Bongale, followed by colorful cultural performances by children paying respect to both countries and cultures.
The program ended with a vote of thanks by Treasurer Richa Pal, thanking all the sponsors and donors who supported IACA’s mission in the community. The evening wrapped up by expressing gratitude to the community for their continued support.
In conclusion, the IACA Gala Event was a celebration of cultural pride and diversity, honoring heroes for their immense bravery, dedication, and service to the community. The event also marked the formation of the Youth IACA Club, aimed at educating children about Indian and American cultures and involving them in volunteering services in the community.
 celebrated its Gala Event on September 10th, 2023, at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, IL. The event showcased cultural pride and diversity with mesmerizing performances by Udaan Entertainment from Mumbai. IACA honored its heroes, including veterans and law enforcement officers, for their immense bravery, dedication, and service to the community. The event also marked the formation of the Youth IACA Club, aimed at educating children about Indian and American cultures and involving them in volunteering services in the community.){kind=link}