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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline MAY 08, 2026 | The Indian Eye 26

Service to Underserved (SEVA) Indian American Physicians

Celebrate Legacy, Leadership, and Harmony in Healing

OUR BUREAU

Chicago, IL
n a vibrant Saturday evening,
April 18, 2026, at the elegant
OAshton Place in Willowbrook,
Illinois, The Indian American Char-
itable Foundation (IAMA-CF) and
Indian American Medical Associ-
ation of Illinois (IAMA-IL) came
together in a dazzling fusion of pro-
fessional excellence, cultural pride,
and heartfelt community service. The
annual banquet transformed into a
memorable night of recognition, in-
spiration, and celebration, where 375
physicians, families, and supporters
gathered to honor decades of dedica-
tion to medicine and humanity.
The evening kicked off with a
warm Social Hour and Exhibitor Dis-
play from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, setting
a convivial tone as attendees net-
worked, explored health-related ex-
hibits, and caught up with colleagues.
The cultural spark ignited at 6:15 PM
with a graceful Kuchipudi Dance
Performance by talented young art-
ist Aashna Golla, whose fluid move-
ments and expressive storytelling
beautifully bridged traditional Indian
artistry with the modern American
experience.
The formal proceedings unfold-
ed under the polished guidance of
Master of Ceremonies Dr. Rajan
Shah and Dr. Poonam Merai. The na- hanced website and ability to do Tele education, and community empow- Dr. Ngozi Ezike
tional anthems resonated powerfully, Health visits significantly improving erment. His words resonated deeply, • IAMA-CF Lifetime Support Rec-
performed with pride by Dr. Radhika excess and services to patients. inspiring attendees to think beyond ognition – Late Dr. Usharani
Chimata and Dr. Samir Shah, evok- The highlight of the evening ar- clinical practice toward broader soci- Nimmagadda; Family (a poignant
ing a deep sense of unity between the rived with the Chief Guest, Dr. Bobby etal impact. Dr. Meher Medavaram, posthumous honor celebrating en-
Indian and American identities that Mukkamala, President of the Ameri- President of IAMA-IL, delivered an during family legacy in service)
define this vibrant community. can Medical Association (AMA). As inspiring presidential address, high- • IAMA-CF Service; Recognition
This was followed by a spectacu- the first physician of Indian heritage lighting the organizations ongoing Awards – Dr. Bharati Swamina-
lar and informative Video including to lead the AMA, Dr. Mukkamala mission to support Indian American than, Dr. Shami Goyat, Mr. Rajesh
history and address by many found- brought national stature and person- physicians, advance medical excel- Chotalia, and Dr. Prema Malani
ing members and key leaders. The al inspiration to the gathering. His lence, and serve underserved popu- For over three decades, IA-
welcome address by President Dr. presence underscored the growing lations through the free community MA-IL and IAMACF have stood as
Samir Shah was heartwarming and influence of Indian American phy- health clinic operated by IAMA-CF. pillars of support for physicians while
dynamic, highlighting significant sicians in shaping healthcare policy Dr. Tapan Parikh, the Secretary quietly transforming lives through
transformation of IAMA Charitable and advocacy at the highest levels. of IAMA-IL conducted semiannual free healthcare services. The 2026
clinic in 2025-2026. Dr. Shah pas- Dr. Subrahmanyam Dravida meeting and elected two members banquet reinforced their vital role in
sionately outlined the foundation (Subra) President of EKAL-USA, from IAMA Membership for par- bridging communities, advocating for
impactful work, including the Seva served as the Keynote Speaker. ticipation for Nominating Commit- better health policies, and nurturing
Community Health Clinic that pro- Known for his visionary leadership tee for 2026. The heart of the night the next generation of healers. In an
vides free medical services to those in in technology and his dedication to belonged to the Awards Ceremony, era when healthcare faces unprec-
need in the Chicago area. The most rural education and development which shone a well-deserved spot- edented challenges, events like this
notable progress includes expanding in India through Ekal Vidyalaya ini- light on extraordinary contributions: remind us that unity, legacy, and joy-
the Clinic hours to 6 days per week, tiatives, Dr. Dravida delivered an • Lifetime Achievement Award – Dr. ful service remain the strongest pre-
addition of Women’s Health clinic, eloquent address that connected Thomas John scriptions for a healthier society.
Community Heath seminars, en- the dots between medical service, • Distinguished Physician Award – --- Asian Media USA

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