Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago celebrates Cheti Chand, the Sindhi new year
On Sunday, April 7, the Sindhi Association of Metropolitan Chicago hosted a joyous celebration of Cheti Chand, the Sindhi new year, at the elegant Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove.
The event was a resounding success, drawing attendees of all ages and featuring a delightful blend of cultural performances, prayers, and delectable Sindhi cuisine.
The Cheti Chand festival was graced by several dignitaries, including Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India in Chicago, who served as the chief guest, along with prominent community figures such as Oak Brook Mayor Laurence Herman, Schaumburg Mayor Tom Dailly, the former Oak Brook Mayor Gopal Lalmalani, and Aurora Alderwomen Shweta Baid.
All the guests of honor were welcomed and greeted with Sindhi Topi, Scarf and Dhol upon their arrival. The festivities commence with traditional Behrana and Prasad, followed by a lively Jalsa experience. Attendees participated in heartfelt prayers and paid homage to Jhulelal, the Sindhi deity, led by Dr. Gita Rupani and Manju Dadlani.
Henna Ballaney and Ria Matta took the stage, captivating the audience for the entire cultural program. Namish Nagdev, a talented 9-year-old, eloquently conveyed the importance of Cheti Chand, emphasizing acceptance, unity, and the story of Jhulelal God. Mrs. Ballaney sung a special Cheti Chand song. Multiple dance performances were performed by SAMC community ladies.
DJ Paulami Majumdar spun Bollywood beats, getting everyone on their feet and dancing to the rhythm. The culinary spread featured an array of mouthwatering Sindhi dishes, including Dal Pakwan, Chole Pattice, Sindhi Curry, Sindhi Fry Bhindi, Tairi, Sindhi Faluda, and refreshing special Sindhi drink called Thandai.
The event was expertly organized by the SAMC Committee led by President Vinita Gulabani and Secretary Dr. Subhash Balaney. Community members came together to volunteer for decorations, making packing, distributing prasad, Raffel and support the event. SAMC sincerely thank all our sponsors for this event.
With over 250 attendees, the Cheti Chand festival at Ashyana Banquets exemplified the spirit of togetherness, cultural pride, and joy. Chicago Sindhis welcomed the Sindhi New Year with open hearts and a promise to cherish their rich heritage
It was a colorful showcase of the cultural grandeur of the Sindhi community, interspersed with dance, music, and singing. The highlight of the evening's celebration was Vinita Gulabani’s group dance presentation that was artistically presented with grace and cultural aesthetics that elicited thunderous applause.
FIA's Chairman Sunil Shah complimented the leadership of Vinita Gulabani in hosting a grand banquet that brought together the diverse community to celebrate the distinct culture of Sindhis.
President Vinita Gulabani in her remarks outlined Sindhi's oldest civilizational roots with its rich distinct cultural heritage. Vinita Gulabani further presented a historical overview of the role of Sindhi Association in building bridges of friendship with the community organizations to help foster collaborative efforts in advancing the cultural, social and charitable ideals.