Spectacular Pakistan Independence Day and Heritage Festival in Niles, Illinois attracts large crowd
Pakistani-American community gathered from all corners of the state, as well as nearby neighboring states such as Wisconsin Indiana, Iowa and Michigan, to enjoy the Pakistan Heritage Festival at Niles, Illinois on Saturday August 18th, 2018. An estimated 10,000 showed up for the Festival, which celebrated the 71th anniversary of Pakistan's Independence Day. The festival and concert featured some of Pakistan's biggest names in entertainment, such as world-renowned singers Komal Rizvi, Mazar Rahi and Nabeel Shaukat Ali.
The Festival was organized by Mere Pakistan with support from other local groups and supporters. Mera Pakistan which was founded last year by well-known Community Leaders such as Rana Javid Khan, Aasif Malik, Masood Saahi and several others. They have only aim to promote Pakistan culture and heritage in Chicago land. During an interview with an organizer Aasif Malik said, "Our Mera Pakistan organization has aimed to provide a platform for Pakistani Americans at the grass-root levels to strengthen Pakistan-US ties and serve as a bridge between Pakistani Americans and the community". The Festival this year was led by Chairman Rana Javid Khan. He is a well-known Pakistani Community Journalist & Social worker. The same group that organized the successful Parade and Festival Last year. The parade was on Devon Avenue, Chicago and Festival were held in Skokie.
Saturday's weather was totally comfortable as men, women and children - mostly peoples are in Pakistani national dresses and many were dressed in green colored costumes Like Pakistani Flag color. Mostly Peoples came together with family and friends and they sit together in groups.
The proceedings began with national anthems (American and Pakistan) sung by Ms. Alaleh Zafar. Flags Hoisting ceremony held same time. The Consul General of Pakistan Chicago, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Mayor of the Village of Niles. Mayor Andrew Przybylo and several other members of the diplomatic community and representatives of State leaders, including State Representative Ms. Laura Fine.
The Pakistani flag raising took place at 6:30 p.m., while the festivities continue until about 11 p.m.
when the emcee announced that Nabeel Shaukat Ali it's about to perform. All the youngster boys and girls started Bhangra Dance as Nabeel Shaukat Ali performed his hit songs.
During the festival revelers had the opportunity to enjoy traditional music, food, and vendors. mostly attendees said we feel like in back home enjoying great food and music. The largest and best outdoor Pakistan Festival in the Chicago area
Pakistani singers Komal Rizvi, Mazar Rahi and Nabeel Shaukat Ali, enthralled the crowd with patriotic and other hit songs. Some local artists also performed.
Sponsors of the event were Helping Hand, Studio Elite, Junaid Jamshed, Porto's Peri Peri Chicken, Ifanca, Jadoo, Care & Care Health, Patel Brothers, Ali Hair Styles, Absolute healthcare etc.
At the end Chairman Rana Javid Khan thanks all sponsors for their support and hard work in making the event a success.