Chicago, August 22, 2025: In continuation of its Independence Day series of celebrations, FIA-Chicago hosted a grand Patriotic Gala, adding another feather to its cap. As expected—and as the name indicated—the evening was filled with patriotism from start to finish. From flyers, posters, decorations, and stage setup to speeches, dances, and songs, every element reflected the love for Bharat.
The program began with a moment of silence in memory of the 26 lives lost in Pahalgam after being identified by their religion. This was followed by the traditional Diya Prajvalan, the national anthems, and a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram. A soul-touching Kuchipudi performance by Divya Prakashini of Divya Nritya Kuchipudi on “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon” moved the audience to tears. FIA-Chicago President Hemant Patel was visibly emotional and rushed to the stage with teary eyes, holding a portrait of Bharat Mata. He invited former Army officials Flight Lieutenant Sanjay Sharma, Rakesh Asthana, Captain Preeti Gupta, Deepak Saxena, FIA’s own Arvind Ankleshwaria, and others to join him on stage in a historic salute to their service.
The gala also featured a documentary tracing FIA Chicago’s 45-year journey, highlighting its parades, community milestones, and cultural impact across the Midwest. Illinois State Senator Michelle Mussman praised the Indian American community’s contributions and extended warm wishes for Independence Day, commending FIA President Hemant Patel for hosting such a vibrant celebration. Trustee and former President Rakesh Malhotra introduced Patel with pride, underscoring FIA’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation.
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In his presidential address, Patel paid tribute to India’s freedom fighters and honored Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary. He reflected on India’s immense contributions to civilization, including the zero, decimal system, Pi, binary system, trigonometry, yoga, and even radio wave technology. Patel highlighted India’s resilience, rising from centuries of invasions and colonial rule to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, the fourth-strongest military power, and a nation that has reached both the Moon and Mars. He praised Operation Sindoor for neutralizing hundreds of terrorists and called on the world to unite against extremism in pursuit of a peaceful, prosperous future.
Patel expressed gratitude to the audience, sponsors, media partners, community leaders, and over 60 member organizations. Special thanks were extended to Consul General Somnath Ghosh, Trustee Director Bharat Barai, Dr. Srinivas Reddy, Neil Khot, Colonel (Dr.) V.P. Singh, Ex-Minister of UP Saheb Singh, Dr. Vijay Prabhakar, Dr. Santosh Kumar, Mafatbhai, trustee Sanhita Agnihotri, and others for their support. He also recognized the youth, performers, and volunteers who are keeping traditions alive.
Earlier this month, on August 8, 2025, FIA Chairman Sunil Shah invited Hemant Patel and his team to their Independence Day celebration. Both teams, along with Congressional candidate Neil Khot, appeared on stage together, sending a strong message of unity. Patel described the moment as “two brothers living in separate houses.” This gesture was again highlighted during the gala, when all community leaders, business owners, and organization heads joined on stage to hold a 15-foot banner reading “WE ARE ONE,” warmly welcomed by the diaspora.
The evening also paid tribute to Sardar Patel through a video presentation and featured cultural performances by Vrinda Pandav, Divya Prakashini, Mihir Acharya, Darshna Patel, DJ Chirag Patel, and Phani Krishna. FIA executives distributed certificates of appreciation to community members and performers. The gala concluded with a patriotic musical evening led by Mihir Acharya and Darshna Patel, who brought the audience to its feet with songs of freedom and pride.
Dr. Vijay Prabhakar honored Hemant Patel with an award from Congressman Danny Davis (7th Congressional District) and MEATF for his outstanding community service. In his remarks, Dr. Prabhakar praised Patel’s fearless leadership and his dedication to raising awareness on community issues. Consul General Somnath Ghosh and Banquet Chair Dr. Santosh Kumar also addressed the gathering, congratulating FIA on its continued success.
The evening’s success was further enhanced by the emceeing of Nimisha Patel, and FIA-Chicago also launched its annual Souvenir, which included greetings from officials in both India and the U.S., sponsor messages, business advertisements, articles, poems, and cultural notes. With this patriotic celebration, FIA-Chicago once again reaffirmed its role as a unifying force for the Indian American community in the Midwest.