Held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, the free festival transformed the picnic grove into a bustling hub of tradition, music, and modern flair. From 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM, families, seniors, children, and volunteers reveled in a colorful blend of performances, games, food, and cultural showcases.

“This wasn’t just an event — it was a celebration of unity, culture, and community spirit,” said Jassie Parmar, Founder of Desi Junction.

A Festival of Traditions and Togetherness

The day began with Langar Sewa, a complimentary community breakfast, followed by a heartfelt opening ceremony at 10:30 AM. Elders from across India — Delhi, Mumbai, Andhra, and more — symbolically kicked off the festivities, joined by Chaudhary Singh Sahab, an ex-minister from Uttar Pradesh who flew in from India.

“This program unites people from all Indian states, showcasing India’s diversity in America,” Singh Sahab told the cheering crowd.

With free entry, free parking, shuttle service, and free ice cream for kids under five, inclusivity remained at the heart of Summerfest.

Music, Dance, and Patriotic Pride

Cultural performances set the tone. Students of Gandharv Mahavidyalaya North America opened with Kathak and Hindustani classical music, while kids from Payel’s Vocal Studio moved audiences to tears with stirring patriotic songs.

The Dance Dhamaka competition turned the grove into a Bollywood stage, with children and youth dazzling judges like Amit Chakraborty, who recently performed with Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan.

Winners included:

• Chicago Dance Varsity (Kids Category)
• Ashke Bhangra Group, Arthi’s Dance Academy, and Shelzar Dance Company (Youth & Adults)

Evening highlights included a Sundowner Dance Party and a high-energy Bollywood Antakshari finale that had the crowd singing classics together.

Games, Fashion, and Community Spirit

From tug-of-war and lemon spoon races to scavenger hunts and Antakshari rounds, families played for prizes including free tickets to concerts by Falguni Pathak, Badshah, and Kanwar Grewal.

The Saree Fashion Walk drew loud cheers as pageant winners and brand ambassadors — including Sara Bongale (Mrs. Midwest Universe) and Nirali Desai (Miss India Illinois) — showcased elegance and cultural pride. Participants even received complimentary salon treatments, adding a modern touch to the traditional showcase.

Food stalls serving golgappe, momos, and chaat kept energy high, while vendors offered clothing, jewelry, and festive deals.

Voices of Pride and Partnership

“Summerfest 2025 is our biggest and most successful yet,” said organizers Safalya Pani and Bhairavi K Thakkar, crediting over 30 volunteers and community partners.

Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman and Founder of Asian Media USA, extended congratulations, adding:
“Events like this strengthen the bonds of the Asian diaspora in America, and we are proud to highlight them.”

About Desi Junction

For more than 24 years, Desi Junction has served Chicagoland’s South Asian community with cultural festivals, concerts, expos, and family gatherings. Driven by volunteers, its mission is to connect people through music, dance, food, and tradition.

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From the moment the guests stepped through the doors, they were swept into a celebration of Indian heritage, creativity, and most importantly, hope. The festival, free and open to the public, pulsed with color and life. It was hosted with charm and energy by two MCs, Neha Sobti and Priyanka Parekh, who guided the audience through an unforgettable journey. The show opened with an upbeat hip-hop performance blending rhythm and youthfulness. As the day unfolded, the stage bloomed with a variety of dances: elegant ballet, vibrant Garba, classical Indian sequences, and children twirling in joyful abandon. Groups such as Suhani Dance Academy, Ghunguru School, and Four Stars Dance Group left audiences spellbound. 

At the heart of it all was Vidya Jyoti’s powerful purpose: to educate underprivileged children across India, the U.S., and Haiti. The founder, Pratibha Jairath, spoke passionately, presenting stories of transformation. One such story was of Radhika, an orphaned child who, because of Vidya Jyoti’s support, is now scoring over 80% (A grade) in school. “We are not just giving money,” said Pratibha, her voice thick with emotion. “We are giving dignity. We are building futures.”

Then came the two fashion walks, a moment where grace met pride. Dressed in stunning saris, lehengas, and Indo-western fusion wear, participants of all ages took to the runway in two dynamic segments. The fashionistas for the evening were: Swati Kukian, Suparna Dutta, Shree Guruswamy, Shraddha Marathe, Shalaka Sawant, Sara Bongale, Sakshi Sharma, Renuka, Pika Munshi, Nidhi Mishra, Neelam Aloor, Manisha Pandit, Kitkat Shah, Falguni Sukhadia, Fal Rana, Deepti Gupta, Bharathi Devathi, Alli Dhanaraj.

In the Title Walk, finalists were judged not only on style, but voice and purpose. When Rihanna Tandon and Archana Pantraffan stepped forward as winners, their poise and eloquence gave everyone chills. The judges, Sanskriti Sharma, Sushma Bhanot, and Archana Agarwal, beamed with pride.

A moving highlight of the afternoon was the recognition of community champions by Pratibha Jairath and co-founder Madhu Uppal. With the support of Mayor John Leash of Aurora and Alderwoman Shweta Baid, Vidya Jyoti presented Plaques to Vidya Jyoti sponsors, Sunil Shah, Pinky Dinesh Thakkar, Sudhir Agarwal, Brij Sharma, Dr. Ashok Mehta, Bill Lyon, Ramesh Mehra, and Dr. Bhupinder Beri. Plaques were also presented to Prem Sharma, Urmil Chawla for their vision and leadership, and to Anita Beri & Sarita Sood for their dedication to Vidya Jyoti. 

Recognitions and tokens of appreciation were presented to community heroes, the people whose silent efforts light the path for others. The honorees included Ramesh Malhan, Vipin Wadhera, Balbeer Kaur, Pramila Malhotra, Anu Malhotra, Ram Saini, Anita Rawal, Subhash Pandey, Anurag Misra, Jayanti Oza, Atul Wahi, Rosey Bhasin, Krishna Chitturi, Nikhil Shah, and Uma Kartiki. Their highlights were also presented on a video screen as they were called, by Vidya Jyoti’s technical director, R. Shivam Viswanathan.

Around the hall, food and shopping booths added flavor and flair to the event. Guests nibbled on savory chaats, sweets, and home-style meals. The effort of vendor booths was coordinated by a team led by Anita Beri, Sarita Sood, Shree Gurusamy, Alka Sood, and Preeti Chawla. Colorful stalls offered handwoven jewelry, textiles, and gifts with their own story.

Advisory Board member Dr. Bhupinder Beri echoed the emotions in his powerful appeal, “We are fortunate because someone once invested in our education. For just $30 a month or a dollar a day, we can offer a child that same gift. Let’s make giving a habit, not a moment.” Ashok Potdar, a dedicated and passionate director of an organization, reminded the audience that “Knowledge is the only wealth that cannot be stolen.” The room fell silent, then rose to applause. Another passionate advisory member, Ramesh Mehra, had another powerful appeal to help folks understand the mission of Vidya Jyoti.

The two raffle draws, including a grand prize of $250, kept the energy high throughout. It was time for the final performance, a full-on Garba circle that united young and old, like the community had become one beating heart, dancing together.

As the event drew to a close, Pratibha took the mic one last time. Her words were soft but strong. “Vidya Jyoti started with a dream in India. Today, we are helping schools in the U.S., in Haiti, and beyond. Because when we educate a child, we educate generations.”

“This was more than a cultural event. It was a radiant expression of humanity’s best. Vidya Jyoti is not just teaching children, they are awakening possibilities,” said Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman of Asian Media USA

Vidya Jyoti, through this colorful and impactful celebration, reaffirmed its mission: to educate, empower, and inspire through unity and cultural pride. For more information, sponsor a child or to get involved, visit www.vidya–jyoti.com.

Photographs and Press release by: Asian Media USA

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Manubhai Mind Blowing is a rollicking exploration of marriage, mischief, and misunderstandings, centred on Manubhai, portrayed by Sharman Joshi in his first Gujarati stage role in the USA. Written by Imtiaz Patel, directed by Jaideep Shah, and produced by Aasif Patel, the play follows Manubhai, a well-meaning husband whose efforts to reignite the spark in his marriage with his wife, Kishori, spiral into a cascade of comedic chaos. On the advice of his quirky assistant, Madan, Manubhai attempts to find a “spark” outside his marriage, leading to bumbling flirtations with his receptionist, Chandni, and a whirlwind of blackmail, mistaken identities, and laugh-out-loud confrontations.

A standout scene showcases Manubhai’s awkward attempts to charm Chandni, only to be outwitted by her boyfriend, Abhilash, who orchestrates a mock blackmail scheme. The play’s sharp, bilingual dialogue in Gujarati and English captures the essence of Gujarati humour while poking fun at universal relationship dynamics. From Manubhai’s exasperated exchanges with Kishori over tiffin contents to workplace antics involving his eccentric staff, the narrative delivers relentless laughter while highlighting the importance of love and communication in marriage. This family-friendly comedy resonates with audiences of all ages, blending cultural pride with universal themes.

The play features a talented ensemble, led by Sharman Joshi, whose impeccable comedic timing and charm anchor the production. Joining him are Aakash Zala as the scheming Madan, Arpita Sethia as the sharp-witted Kishori, Hardik Sangani, Pritesh Sodha, Mahek Bhatt, and Tejas Shah, each adding their unique flair to the chaotic world of Manubhai Mind Blowing.

Sharman Joshi shared his enthusiasm: “Bringing Manubhai Mind Blowing to Chicago is a dream come true. The Gujarati community’s warmth fuels our performance, and I can’t wait to share this laughter-filled journey.”

The U.S. tour is a testament to the Gujarati community’s unity, driven by passionate promoters and sponsors. Local promoters Neelam and Shashank Desai of NextGen Entertainment, Payal Shah of PN Entertainment, and Brijesh Patel of Core Exteriors, alongside national promoter Bhavna Modi of Manpasand Inc., have worked tirelessly to bring this cultural gem to the diaspora.

Bhavna Modi remarked, “Manubhai Mind Blowing is a celebration of our humour and heritage, and we’re thrilled to launch it in Chicago.”

The production is supported by a roster of sponsors reflecting the community’s entrepreneurial spirit. Grand sponsors include Shashank and Neelam Desai of OCI Card Services and Jigna and Jignesh Gandhi of Rana Reagan Pharmacy. Other sponsors are Anil Shah of World’s Money Exchange, Sunil Shah of New York Life, Ashok Punjabi of Chicago Imports, Chirag Shah of Dynasty Home Care, Jigar Parikh of Jigar’s Kitchen, Rushi and Arjun Patel of Jay Bhavani & Eggmania (Schaumburg), Esha Patel of State Farm, Naresh Shah of ReliaCare, Manish Jain your trusted financial partner, and Perry & Sunny Patel of More Brewing Company.

Culinary sponsors Sam Lakhia of Shree Rasoi, Gaurav Tuteja & Saurabh Dawra of Belly Delhi, Rushi and Arjun Patel of Jay Bhavani (Schaumburg), Gagan Suri of Shree Restaurant, and Shabana Rahman ensured everyone at the Press Meet on May 1st, 2025, enjoyed authentic Indian flavors. Media partners Suresh Bodiwala of Asian Media USA and Jassi Parmar of Desi Junction amplified the play’s reach, while Tariq Khan of Melody Productions and Sound ensured flawless audio. Supporters like Dhitubhai Bhagwakar of Strike 10 Lanes and Lounge and Haribhai Patel of Bhartiya Senior Center embody the community’s spirit.

Following its Chicago debut, Manubhai Mind Blowing will tour cities including Tampa, Edison, Cherry Hill, Raleigh, Washington DC, Pittsburg, Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles and many more, spreading Gujarati humour across the U.S. With its universal appeal and cultural pride, the production is set to leave a lasting impact.

Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman and Founder of Asian Media USA, shares his expert perspective: “Manubhai Mind Blowing is more than a play; it’s a vibrant celebration of Gujarati culture and humour that bridges generations and geographies. As a platform dedicated to amplifying South Asian voices, Asian Media USA is proud to support this production, which showcases the diaspora’s talent and unity. This play is a testament to the power of laughter in connecting communities.” His expert editorials continue to highlight the cultural significance of such events, reinforcing the importance of preserving heritage through art.

Photographs and Press release by: Asian Media USA

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CHICAGO, IL: Lalbhai Dalpatbhai College of Engineering (LDCE), Ahmedabad, Gujarat, one of the oldest (established in June 1948) and premier institutes in the western part of India, is marching on to its Roadmap towards its 100th year, exactly on the same path as India started her journey of independence in 1947, and is on her path of development when she turns 100 in 2047.

A Core group of Alumni along with Dr. Rajul Gajjar, Vice Chancellor of Gujarat Technological University (GTU, of which LDCE is a part, as an affiliated Institute) and who is also the former Principal of LDCE, Dr. Nilay Bhuptani, current Principal of LDCE, Anand Patel, President of LDCE Alumni Association (LAA), Prerak Shah, Vice President,  and members of LAA BOG, Apoorva Thakershy, Parag Shah, Chetan Thakkar, and Saleel Bhatt are on a North America tour to the 3 cities of New Jersey, Chicago, and San Francisco to re-invent the Alumni Network here. LDCE has an estimated 30 to 35k Alumni across the globe, with many of them heading global companies or having created their own large and highly successful ventures and businesses.

This Core Group from LAA- -Ahmedabad is in a single-minded pursuit of bringing together this entire network of Alumni and connecting them to their Alma Mater, like the mythical Kalpavruksh.

Their endeavors have met with a tremendous response from the two Alumni Meets at NJ and Chicago, where a total of 230 alums came together in one big celebration of homecoming. Alumni traveled from different cities to meet up with old friends, to their pleasant surprise, new friends living across their streets who they had not met in 20-25 years so far!

They are creating Local Chapters of LAA- USA and leaving behind a Framework for these Chapters.

At home, LDCE Alumni have created a Strategic Plan for LDCE@100 with KPMG to achieve global standards. They have also created a Master plan for the redevelopment of the whole campus, by Aniket Bhagwat, an internationally renowned architect. The government on its part has done matching grants to put LDCE on a fast track towards its LDCE@100 plan. A ₹ 100 cr Research Park in Emerging and Deep Tech is also on the anvil.

This small group of Alumni Leaders is super confident in reaching out and connecting the roots with the help of the Alumni who have joined this movement across the USA and India.

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