Chicago, IL — On October 5, 2025, The Matrix Club in Naperville, Illinois, transformed
into a dazzling epicenter of culture and celebration as the United Punjabis of America
(UPA) hosted its spectacular Diwali Mela 2025. This vibrant Festival of Lights welcomed
thousands of guests for a day brimming with captivating performances, heartfelt
tributes, and jubilant festivities. Guided by the visionary leadership of UPA President
Atul Wahi and Chairman Brij Sharma, the event beautifully showcased the richness of
Indian heritage—interweaving tradition, unity, and pride in a way that deeply resonated
with Chicagoland’s diverse community.
The festivities commenced with a heartfelt welcome from Atul Wahi, whose opening
remarks set an uplifting and inclusive tone for the day. Master of Ceremonies Jassi
Parmar lit up the room with her dynamic presence, effortlessly guiding attendees
through a thoughtfully curated program that celebrated the depth and diversity of Indian
culture. Behind the scenes, the event ran with precision thanks to the technical finesse
of Shivam Viswanathan and Sakshi Sharma, who orchestrated the sound and music,
and the impeccable stage management led by Gurpreet Singh, Falguni Sukhadia, and
Rosey Bhasin.
“I offer my deepest gratitude to President Atul Wahi and Board Member Rosey
Bhasin for their exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment in bringing
Diwali Mela 2025 to life on October 5th at The Matrix Club in Naperville, IL. Their
tireless dedication, along with the passion and precision of the entire core team,
was the driving force behind the event’s tremendous success,” shared UPA
Chairman Brij Sharma.
In his message of thanks, Mr. Wahi highlighted the meticulous planning and relentless
effort poured into every facet of the celebration. Special recognition was extended to
Shivam Viswanathan, Sakshi Sharma, Falguni Sukhadia, Gurpreet Singh, Nilabh Dubey,
and Pranav Mathur—each of whom played a pivotal role in crafting this vibrant cultural
experience. Together, the team embodied the values of unity, service, and joy that
continue to define and uplift our community.
The dance showcase was a brilliant celebration of talent and tradition, featuring some
of Chicagoland’s finest dance schools. Team Laya, under the direction of Priyanka
Parekh, ignited the stage with a riveting 4-minute opener that set the tone for the
afternoon. Gia Choudhary followed with a soulful solo, captivating the audience with
her elegance and poise. Team Avishkaar, led by Anagha Naik Tambe, infused the
program with a burst of creativity, while Suhani Dance Academy, helmed by Falguni
Rana, closed the segment with a breathtaking 10-minute performance that left the
crowd spellbound.

RVD Academy, under the spirited leadership of Sunny Aheer, and Taal Tarang,
choreographed by Lekshmi Varun, electrified the stage with their high-energy
performances. Chicago Dance Varsity and Chicago Dance Variety, both directed by Puja
Joshi, delivered a series of acts that seamlessly fused classical elegance with
contemporary flair, earning waves of applause. Bhangra Rhymes, led by Mandeep Kular,
brought an adrenaline rush of Punjabi rhythm, while Dance with Anamika,
choreographed by Anamika Singh, offered two graceful and distinct showcases of
refined movement. The segment concluded with vibrant artistry from Motion and
Waves, led by Upasna Malhotra, and Team Ghunguru, under the direction of Sridevi
Pandalai.
Tasked with evaluating this dazzling array of talent were judges Anu Malhotra, Pratibha
Jairath, Sanskriti, and Ginny Jolly—whose discerning eyes and deep appreciation for the
arts made their role both challenging and crucial. Each performance stood as a
testament to the dedication, creativity, and cultural pride of the artists.
During a brief intermission, guests indulged in a mouthwatering culinary journey
through India at the bustling food court. From rich Punjabi fare and savory street food to
aromatic North Indian dishes and traditional mithai, the offerings from Cuisine of India
and Spice Mart delighted every palate. They added a delicious layer to the day’s
festivities.
The formal ceremony, gracefully emceed by Jassi Parmar, captured the heart of Diwali—
radiating light, unity, and gratitude. Atul Wahi returned to the stage to introduce the UPA
Board of Directors (Madhu Uppal, Ramesh Malhan, Pratibha Jairath, Girish Kapur, Anu
Malhora, and Rosey Bhasin), Executive Team (Sarita Sood, Ashwani Mahajan, Preeti
Chawla), and Diwali Core Team, offering heartfelt recognition for their unwavering
dedication and behind-the-scenes efforts. Madhu Uppal extended a warm welcome to
esteemed dignitaries, including Shay Alina, Anil Loomba, Sunil Shah, Kadar Sodager,
Rohit Dhingra, and Brij Sharma, among others, whose presence added distinction to the
celebration. In a moment of sincere appreciation, Atul Wahi acknowledged the event’s
generous sponsors, with special thanks to International Fresh Market for their vital role
in fostering community connection and support.
The Lamp Lighting Ceremony—a beloved Diwali tradition—brought together members
of the Diwali Mela Core Team and distinguished dignitaries in a symbolic act of unity
and hope. Shay Alina, Anil Loomba, Sunil Shah, Kadar Sodager, Brij Sharma, Atul Wahi,
Gurpreet Singh, Shivam Viswanathan, Sakshi Sharma, Falguni Sukhdia, Rosey Bhasin,
and Jassi Parmar joined hands to illuminate the ceremonial lamp, celebrating the
triumph of light over darkness. The atmosphere brimmed with pride and reverence as
Shriya Tiwari and Shikha Tandon performed the national anthems of the United States
and India, weaving a harmonious thread of cross-cultural unity through the heart of the
celebration.

The Community Hero Awards shone a spotlight on individuals whose selfless service
has uplifted the Chicagoland community. With warmth and enthusiasm, Jassi Parmar
introduced each honouree, while Shivam Viswanathan and Sakshi Sharma seamlessly
managed the visual tributes that highlighted their achievements.
Among those recognized were Shay Alina, presented by Atul Wahi and Brij Sharma;
Kader Sodagar, honored by Rosey Bhasin, Shammi Wahi, and Atul Wahi; Uma Katiki,
acknowledged by Gurpreet Singh, Rosey Bhasin, and Madhu Uppal; Shivam
Viswanathan, celebrated by Bharat Malhotra, Sakshi Sharma, and Rosey Bhasin; Yogi
Bhardwaj, awarded by Ashok Bhasin, Atul Wahi, and Brij Sharma; Vijay and Brij Sharma,
presented by Sunil Shah and Atul Wahi; and Atul Wahi himself, honoured by Sunil Shah,
Sudhir Sukheja, and Shweta Baid.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the dedicated dance schoolteachers and
choreographers whose artistry and mentorship brought the stage to life. Participation
certificates were presented to Anagha Naik Tambe (Team Avishkaar), Anamika Singh
(Dance with Anamika), Falguni Rana (Suhani Dance Academy), Gia Choudhary (Solo
Performance), Lekshmi Varun (Taal Tarang), Mandeep Kular (Bhangra Rhymes), Priyanka
Parekh (Team Laya), Puja Joshi (Chicago Dance Varsity/Chicago Dance Variety), Sridevi
Pandalai (Team Ghunguru), Sunny Aheer (RVD Academy), and Upasna Malhotra (Motion
and Waves)—each recognized for their invaluable contributions to the cultural
showcase.
The cultural segment unfolded as a dazzling tribute to India’s diversity, weaving together
rhythm, storytelling, and soul. Ashke Bhangra Club ignited the stage with a high-energy
12-minute performance, setting the tone for an afternoon of artistic brilliance. Inspire
School of Dance followed with spirited group acts, highlighted by a graceful solo from
Sophia Wahi. Indian Idol sensation Piyush Panwar mesmerized the audience with his
soulful melodies, striking a chord with every listener.
A powerful performance of the Ramayana by Science of Spirituality brought ancient
epic to life with dramatic flair, while performances by Hari Om Mandir, Payel’s Group,
Sant Nirankari Mission, Madhura Sane’s Junior and Senior Groups, and Arya Samaj
added vibrant layers to the cultural tapestry—each act reflecting the depth and beauty
of India’s heritage
The Karaoke Singing Program set a soulful tone with heartfelt performances by Dr.
Pradeep, Sargam Kapoor, Manmeet Kaur, Payel Roy G, and Abhinav Srivastav—whose
Hawaiian guitar added a unique and melodic touch. The celebration drew to a close
with a heartfelt vote of thanks, honoring the volunteers, performers, sponsors, and
attendees whose collective spirit made Diwali Mela 2025 an unforgettable success. As
vendors wrapped up and the venue gently settled, the day’s glow lingered—filled with
light, love, and a deep sense of community. A special spotlight was given to the United

Punjabis of America Scholarship Fund, presented in partnership with the Community
Foundation of Fox River Valley, reaffirming the organization’s enduring commitment to
education, empowerment, and future generations.
UPA Diwali Mela 2025 was more than a gathering—it was a luminous celebration of
heritage, unity, and the timeless spirit of Diwali. From electrifying performances to
heartfelt recognitions, each moment radiated joy, pride, and cultural richness. As the
Matrix Club shimmered with the glow of thousands of diyas, the atmosphere pulsed
with warmth and togetherness, leaving an unforgettable imprint on all who attended.
This radiant celebration of culture and community brought hearts together through the
universal language of joy. At Asian Media USA, we are proud to share the story of this
vibrant event, a true testament to the power of tradition, collaboration, and collective
spirit. May the light of Diwali continue to guide us—illuminating paths of unity, hope,
and shared purpose for years to come.