USA
UP Association of Greater Chicago Marks 35 Years with Diwali Celebration: The UP Association of Greater Chicago (UPAGC) celebrated Diwali on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Ashyana Banquet Hall, Downers Grove, Illinois, bringing together families and community members for an evening of cultural performances, Hindi poetry, music, dance and fellowship.
The celebration also marked 35 years of the association, which was founded in October 1991 to promote Indian culture, language and traditions among the Indian diaspora in the United States.
UPAGC President Uma Agarwal welcomed the guests and described the gathering as a family reunion. In her address, she highlighted the significance of Diwali as a festival of light, togetherness and sharing. She thanked the committee members, volunteers and performers who contributed to organizing the event and extended her wishes to the community.
Dr. Subhash Pandey, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and co-founder of UPAGC, spoke about the association’s journey since its establishment in 1991. He recalled its early beginnings with the blessings of the then Consul General of India and the Governor of Bihar, who was visiting Chicago at the time.
Dr. Pandey highlighted the association’s commitment to promoting Hindi through its annual Kavi Sammelan, along with celebrations of Diwali, Holi and other community gatherings. He emphasized that Indians living abroad share a responsibility to preserve and promote their cultural heritage, irrespective of their state or regional backgrounds.
The Honorable Consul General of India in Chicago, Dr. M. Anand Prakash, attended the event as Chief Guest. Introduced by Dr. Pandey, he was felicitated by the past presidents of UPAGC. He welcomed the Indian community on the occasion of Diwali and acknowledged the importance of cultural organizations in maintaining connections between Indian communities and their heritage.
The evening began with the traditional lighting of diyas, followed by Ganesh Vandana and a Diwali folk song. The cultural programme featured group dances, Garba performances, Hindi poetry and musical presentations.
Young performers and community members presented dances to Indian music, reflecting the participation of different generations in cultural activities. Rani Trivedi and Uma Agarwal hosted the programme, introducing performances through humorous acts incorporating regional dialects of Uttar Pradesh.
Vice President Dileep Srivastava delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the organizers, volunteers, performers and attendees. He highlighted the importance of annual gatherings in maintaining community relationships and providing opportunities for families to celebrate Indian traditions together.
Members of the organizing committee coordinated registrations, seating, food arrangements and other event activities. Following the cultural programme, guests enjoyed dinner and social interaction, while music and dancing continued during the evening.
Founded in October 1991, the UP Association of Greater Chicago has organized cultural and social activities for the Indian community for 35 years. Its initiatives include Hindi poetry gatherings, religious and cultural festivals, and family-oriented events that encourage participation across generations.
The Diwali celebration concluded with families and friends exchanging greetings and enjoying the festivities. The 35-year milestone reflects UPAGC’s continued role in bringing together people of Indian origin and providing a platform to celebrate their cultural roots in the United States.
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