Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, Chief Guest at the event, said, “India Day Celebration in a short span of just three years has become a very impressive event showcasing the Indian culture and heritage.” Mayor Chirico congratulated Krishna Bansal, Chairman, India Community Outreach and noted that heights achieved by ICO in just 4 years usually take decades to reach. He congratulated ICO for achieving the goal of educating and integrating the communities while enhancing the economic interest of Naperville. ICO has been instrumental in facilitating many Indian American businesses to come to Naperville. ICO recently received the Illinois Bicentennial Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Award from Illinois State Governor Bruce Rauner for the Significant Community Contributions and became the first Indian American organization to receive this honor. 2018 India Day has also been inducted as part of Illinois Bicentennial Celebrations.

While speaking about the history and purpose behind the formation of ICO, Krishna Bansal, Chairman of ICO said that 2018 India Day Celebration would be one of the largest and best Indian American events in the United States. Bollywood Rock Star Sukhwinder Singh will be the star performer this year. He also said that there would be multiple activities lined up from morning 11:00 am to 9:30 pm that includes International Food Court, Ethnic Indian Bazaar, Children’s park, Local Talent show, Indian Fashion Show, Parade, Bollywood Concert, Colorful Fireworks and many more to be added in the activities. Bansal urged all community members and Business owners to come forward to support and sponsor the event. Maintaining the commitment, the event will again be free to attend for everyone.

Alderman at City of Aurora, Rick Mervine, was a special guest who emphasized the necessity of civic engagement for the Indian American Community. Patty Gustin, Naperville Council women applauded ICO for its efforts and urged everyone to come forward and become engaged.

Earlier Viral Shah, treasurer of ICO Board, welcomed the guest and spoke about Indian Community Outreach and its three years achievements. Shah highlighted ICO’s efforts in different Programs/Engagements including ‘Conversations’ for enhancing Civic Participation and Social Awareness; ‘Lotus Scholarship & Awards’ to recognize students and leaders of Indian Origin in every field; Indian businesses networking and education forums; India Day -Showcasing and Celebrating Cultures; Contributing to various charity initiatives and Participation in local events to represent Indian American Community.

Chirag Jani, ICO board member and India Day co-chair, said this is an excellent opportunity for businesses to showcase their brand and products in front of thousands of people while seen as a supporter of social and cultural diversity. He continued ”Contributions by Indian Americans businesses will play a role in boosting self-confidence to the next generation and build assurance in all other communities about the contributions and heritage of Indian Americans.” He thanked everyone who took the opportunity to sign pledges for sponsoring this mega event. Indian Community Outreach is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization initiated in 2013 by Naperville Mayor A. George Pradel and helps foster connections with residents of varied and diverse cultural backgrounds. Originations mission is to embrace, preserve and promote the cultural heritage and contributions of Indian Americans while educating them to get involved in America’s growth. The vision is to form and be part of an all-inclusive society while contributing towards the betterment of our great country and our next generation. More information about ICO and India Day including participating/sponsoring details are available at the ICO website www.indiancommunityoutreach.org or by calling 630.300.0345.