Indian American Community in Chicago Comes Together for ‘Havan’ Ceremony, Seeking Blessings for BJP’s Victory

HI INDIA NEWS DESK
CHICAGO, IL- On April 24, 2024, the Indian American Community in Chicago came together in a ‘Havan’ Ceremony at the Gurukul Swaminarayan temple in Arlington Heights, IL, to offer prayers for the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This gathering, marked by a profound sense of unity and devotion, saw Indian American professionals, entrepreneurs, and residents from various walks of life converge at the Hindu temple nestled in the city’s suburbs.

Organized by the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), the ceremony held significant importance as it sought divine blessings for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling BJP. Dr. Adapa Prasad, head of OFBJP, stressed the importance of such rituals across OFBJP chapters in the USA, emphasizing that they symbolize a deep commitment to India’s progress under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.

The ‘Chandi Havan’ ceremony, conducted with utmost reverence, symbolized a collective prayer for the BJP’s victory. Participants fervently hoped for the realization of the vision of ‘Ek Bharat – Shrestha Bharat,’ signifying a united and prosperous India.

At the core of the ceremony was the worship of Goddess Chandi, revered for her boundless power and ability to overcome adversity. The chief priest, Rohit Joshi, elucidated on Goddess Chandi’s significance in defeating negativity and hostility.

Among the attendees was Prakriti Batra, granddaughter of the late Balram Ji Tandon, former Governor of Chattisgarh, who prayed for the victory of BJP candidate Shri Sanjay Tandon from Chandigarh. Batra highlighted Tandon’s continuity, experience, and commitment to Chandigarh’s development.

Rakesh Malhotra commended Tandon’s strong connection with Chandigarh residents, emphasizing his dedication to serving them as family. This sentiment underscores Tandon’s importance in shaping Chandigarh’s future.

Nirmala Reddy described the ‘havan’ as more than a ritual, but a unified expression of support and aspiration, echoing the slogan “Abki Baar, 400 Paar,” symbolizing hope for a resounding BJP victory.

Amar Upadhyaya, a Chicago convenor and OFBJP volunteer, emphasized the event’s significance in showcasing the unwavering support of the Indian and NRI communities in the United States for a prosperous India under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.

In essence, the ‘havan’ ceremony served as a powerful testament to the community’s steadfast support for Prime Minister Modi and the BJP, reflecting their collective aspirations for a brighter future.

Info & Photos by Jayanti Oza