The American Association of Retired Asians Welcomed 2016 with a Youthful Zest and Zeal
The American Association of Retired Asians Welcomed 2016 with a Youthful Zest and Zeal.
There is a widespread perception in the society that it is the right of the youth alone to celebrate New Year with enthusiasm and fervor. However, over 250 members of the American Association of Retired Asians (AARA), who assembled at Shahi Banquet at Lombard, to bid goodbye to 2015 and to welcome 2016, proved that this is merely a myth. They demonstrated, beyond an iota of doubt, that they, despite their advancing age, are second to none in terms of showcasing youthful zest and gusto in welcoming the New Year.
The singers from RH Entertainment, Manmeet Kaur and Rajesh Chalam, accompanied by well-equipped orchestra, did a fabulous job by rendering the hit tracks of Bollywood and made the evening an occasion to remember forever.
Manmeet Kaur kick started the musical evening with two captivating numbers, "Aage Bhi Jaane Na Tu Peechhe Bhi Jaane Na Tu" and "Gali Mein Aaj Chand Nikla Jaane Kitne Dinoon Ke Baad" and received a huge round of applause for her stylish presentation. She was followed by Rajesh Chalam, who presented all-time favorites, including "Mere sapnon ki rani kab aayegi tu Aayi rut mastaani kab aayegi tu beeti jaaye zindagaani kab aay", and Tere bina tere bina dil nahi lagda". Manmeet Kaur and Rajesh Chalam rendered a wave of well known duets, which were full of energy, and mesmerized the audience.
The musical evening disproved the widely-held belief that the older generation is solely interested in the classical music alone. They requested the singers, again and again, to sing quite a few ultra modern songs, and enjoyed the pop music thoroughly. For the singers, this was a pleasant surprise.
The magic of the electrifying music, both the timeless classics and the contemporary hits, was so powerful that many seniors, including a good number of super seniors, danced endlessly matching the beats of the captivating songs. The extremely freezing and chilly weather, instead of dampening their spirits, further uplifted their festive mood.
At the stroke of the midnight, balloons dropped from the ceiling and everyone got up to wish each other a very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.
Dr. Talat Khan, Founder President said that while the South Asian immigrant community is diverse in terms of religion, region, language, etc., AARA provides a unique platform that unites them all. "Even though they are retirees, they prefer to contribute to the well being of the society", she added.
Tasneem Matthis, Vice-President said that AARA strives not only to enable its members to be a productive force in the society but also make all possible efforts to improve the nature and quality of the lives.
"I congratulate AARA team for putting together a fantastic event for its members to celebrate the New Year", said Dr. Ghousia Sultana, an eminent Chicago-based litterateur. "The members of AARA, even though old in terms of age, are no longer prisoners of the old value system; instead of resisting change, they have been proactively welcoming each and every new change that is in the interest of society", she added.
As usual, Shahi Banquet laid out a spectacular feast, comprising cuisines from different regions.
"We always eat bald food, considering our advancing age, health-related issues, and our doctors' advice. However, on the eve of the New Year, we decided to listen to our heart, rather than to the doctors' advice, and relished the tempting and tasty food", said Jugnu Khan board member of AARA.
Ahsan Hafeez, board member of AARA proposed welcome address and vote of thanks. Indra Makhija board member AARA received senior citizens at the reception.