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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline OCTOBER 31, 2025 | The Indian Eye 24

Aurora’s 2025 Diwali Celebration Illuminates

Unity and Cultural Pride

OUR BUREAU can shine as a symbol of hope,” he diences with a dynamic mix of classi- the victory of dharma, light over dark-
said, inspiring attendees to embrace cal and contemporary performances ness, and good over evil.”
Chicago, IL
unity in challenging times. — from soulful singing and expressive The Community Foundation of
he Indian American Commu- The evening’s inclusivity and civic dances to instrumental ensembles that the Fox River Valley was recognized
nity Outreach Advisory Board pride were reflected in the presence of bridged East and West. Highlights in- for its ongoing scholarship partner-
T(IACOAB) transformed 1801 distinguished guests and dignitaries. cluded tabla and saxophone jugalban- ship with IACOAB. In 2025 alone,
N. Eola Road into a radiant hub of Congressman Bill Foster, a longtime di (a traditional Indian musical duet) ten students received $10,000 in
light, culture, and community for supporter of the Indian-American and an energetic rendition of the Bol- scholarships, contributing to a total of
Aurora’s 2025 Diwali Celebration, community, shared his admiration: lywood favorite “Jai Ho,” which had $49,000 awarded to 49 students over
drawing an estimated 3,000 attend- “Diwali’s light is a global necessity, the crowd clapping in rhythm. the past eight years. CEO Julie Christ-
ees. Families adorned in resplendent and seeing young people uphold this Since its inception in 2014, the man lauded the board’s commitment,
saris, lehengas, and kurtas joined new- tradition is a highlight of my year.” volunteer-driven IACOAB has el- earning a standing ovation: “They
comers in celebrating the Festival of Representing the Consulate General evated Aurora’s Diwali celebration work so hard and do such wonderful
Lights — a vibrant expression of joy, of India in Chicago, Mr. M.S. Chau- into a cornerstone of the city’s cultural work to uplift young scholars.”
unity, and cultural pride. han emphasized the festival’s univer- calendar. Former Chair Gautam Bha- As the evening drew to a close,
Welcomed by free admission and sal message: “Diwali unites us in cele- tia reflected on the board’s journey: attendees continued to enjoy culinary
parking, guests immersed themselves brating India’s rich cultural tapestry.” “Seeing this event thrive post-pan- favorites — from crispy samosas to
in a feast for the senses. The air was The audience erupted in applause as demic is deeply gratifying.” Mayor creamy kheer — and explore stalls
filled with the aromas of spicy chaat Ward 10 Alderwoman Shweta Baid, Leasch presented an official procla- bursting with color and creativity. The
and sweet gulab jamun as more than 45 Aurora’s first Indian-American elect- mation honoring the IACOAB for its emcee’s engaging energy kept the mo-
vendors showcased handcrafted jewel- ed official, delivered an inspiring mes- contributions to community harmony, mentum high throughout the night,
ry, traditional attire, and unique mer- sage celebrating the city’s diversity noting that “Diwali, known as the Fes- seamlessly weaving together perfor-
chandise each creation reflecting the and inclusion. tival of Lights, is celebrated by over a mances and community messages.
artistry and spirit of Indian heritage. The cultural program dazzled au- billion people worldwide, symbolizing In her heartfelt vote of thanks,
Festivities began early, with ven- Nadia Kanhai acknowledged School
dors preparing before dawn and the District 204, custodial and AV staff,
cultural showcase commencing at 3 more than 30 volunteers, sponsors,
p.m. The celebration opened with vendors, and the thousands of at-
IACOAB Chair Nitin Fuldeore light- tendees whose participation made
ing a traditional diya, its warm glow the evening unforgettable. Mayor
symbolizing hope and renewal. In his Leasch concluded the celebration by
remarks, Fuldeore encouraged the inviting guests to experience Aurora’s
crowd to “spread joy and positivity,” downtown Festival of Lights, running
expressing heartfelt appreciation for through October 26, a perfect com-
the volunteers, more than ten spon- plement to Diwali’s luminous spirit.
sors, and dozens of vendors whose Aurora’s 2025 Diwali Celebra-
dedication brought the event to life. tion stood as a shining testament
Aurora Mayor John Leasch deliv- to the city’s unity, resilience, and
ered a moving video address, invoking cultural pride — reaffirming that in
the ancient Ramayana tale of Rama’s the City of Lights, the glow of com-
victory over Ravana to highlight Di- munity and togetherness will always
wali’s enduring message of good tri- triumph over darkness.
umphing over evil. “The City of Lights -- Asian Media USA

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