FIA Chicago Celebrates Yoga Day 2020 amid COVID-19

SCHAUMBURG, IL, June 23, 2020 – The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA – CHICAGO) 501 (C)(3) in partnership with Consulate General of India, Chicago – IL celebrated 6th International Yoga Day 2020, offered as a Virtual Event, on Friday, June 19TH, 2020 at 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM, at Junoon Dance Academy.

FIA not only represents the Indian Diaspora in Illinois but also represents India in Illinois which is abundantly clear from the fact that FIA had undertaken to hold the International Yoga Day in spite of the external challenges posed by the Covid-19 and the given restrictions.

Amid COVID-19 pandemic, at a time when Social Distancing has become the new norm, the high spirited Yoga enthusiasts participated with enthusiasm making the 6th International Yoga Day Event, hosted by FIA-Chicago, a huge success!! This event was offered on-site for a limited few numbers of people, while most of the folks joined via Zoom or Facebook live feed.

The virtual yoga event began promptly at 6:30pm, with a welcome address by FIA Founder President Sunil Shah, followed by Gurmeet Singh Dhalwan, President FIA-Chicago. Speeches were also presented by the dignitaries present at the event, Vandana Jhingan, Midwest Bureau Chief of TV Asia and Rodney Craig, Mayor of Hanover Park IL. Vinita Gulabani, VP FIA, introduced Poonam Gupta, Owner & Director at Universal Spirit Yoga, . Other FIA members who attended and supported the event were, Dhitu Bhagwakar, Hema Shastri, Hitesh Gandhi, Altaf Bukhari, Varsha Visal & Richa Chand.

As is our tradition, the Yoga session began with the Lamp Lighting ceremony performed by the FIA Leadership along with the dignitaries. Vandana Jhingan chanted auspicious Sanskrit hymns & mantras, praying for the peace, good health and wellbeing of this entire world.

All the members participating in the yoga took positions and followed the yoga instructions as demonstrated by Poonam and her team of yoga instructors. The event included two simultaneous yoga segments for Gentle Yoga and Intermediate Yoga, as well some other styles of yoga. .

Last but not the least, FIA greatly appreciates its sponsors and supporters.