Festival of Lights, Festival of Unity: UPA’s Mela Brings Culture and Community Together

Festival of Lights, Festival of Unity: UPA’s Mela Brings Culture and Community Together

Vibrant Rhythms, Radiant Hearts: UPA Diwali Mela Celebrates Heritage and Hope

A Night of Light and Unity: UPA Diwali Mela Illuminates Naperville

Harmony in Diversity: UPA Diwali Mela Shines Bright

The Matrix Club in Naperville, Illinois, became a radiant hub of culture, community, and celebration as the United Punjabis of America (UPA) hosted its spectacular Diwali Mela 2025 on October 5, 2025. This grand Festival of Lights brought together thousands of attendees for a day filled with mesmerizing performances, heartfelt tributes, and joyous festivities. Under the dynamic leadership of UPA President Atul Wahi and Chairman Brij Sharma, the event wove together the vibrant threads of Indian heritage, creating a tapestry of unity and pride that resonated with Chicagoland’s diverse community.

The day began with a warm welcome from Atul Wahi, whose opening remarks set an inspiring tone for the celebration. Master of Ceremonies Jassi Parmar captivated the audience with her infectious energy, guiding them through a meticulously planned agenda that showcased the richness of Indian culture. The event’s seamless execution was a testament to the technical expertise of Shivam V. and Sakshi Sharma, who managed the sound and music, and the stellar stage coordination by Gurpreet Singh, Shammi Wahi, and Rosey Bhasin.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Atul Wahi, President, and Rosey Bhasin, Board of Directors, for their outstanding leadership and dedication in organizing Diwali Mela 2025, held on October 5th at the Matrix Club in Naperville, IL. Their tireless efforts, along with the commitment of the entire core team, were instrumental in making this event a resounding success. In his note of gratitude to the organizing leadership, Mr. Wahi emphasized the immense hard work and unwavering dedication that went into every detail of the celebration. Honourable mentions include Shivam Viswanathan, Sakshi Sharma, Falguni Sukhadia, Gurpreet Singh, Nilabh Dubey, and Pranav Mathur—each of whom played a vital role in bringing this vibrant cultural experience to life. Together, this team exemplified the spirit of unity, service, and celebration that defines our community” said by UPA Chairman Brij Sharma.

The dance showcase, featuring Chicagoland’s top dance schools, was a dazzling display of talent and tradition. Team Laya, led by Priyanka Parekh, opened with a captivating 4-minute performance, setting the stage ablaze. Gia Choudhary’s soulful solo followed, enchanting the audience with her grace. Team Avishkaar, under Anagha Naik Tambe, brought a burst of creativity, while Suhani Dance Academy, directed by Falguni Rana, delivered a 10-minute spectacle that left the crowd in awe.

RVD Academy, led by Sunny Aheer, and Taal Tarang, choreographed by Lekshmi Varun, kept the energy soaring with their dynamic performances. Chicago Dance Varsity and Chicago Dance Variety, both under Puja Joshi’s direction, presented multiple acts that blended classical and contemporary styles, earning thunderous applause. Bhangra Rhymes, led by Mandeep Kular, brought high-octane energy, while Dance with Anamika, choreographed by Anamika Singh, showcased elegance in two distinct performances. Motion and Waves, led by Upasna Malhotra, and Team Ghunguru, under Sridevi Pandalai, closed the segment with vibrant displays of artistry. Judges Anu Malhotra, Pratibha Jairath, and Ginny Jolly faced the daunting task of evaluating these stellar performances, each a testament to the performers’ dedication and skill.

A brief intermission allowed attendees to savor the flavors of India at the food court, featuring Cuisine of India, Mithai, Street Food, Punjabi, and North Indian delicacies—a culinary journey that delighted the senses.

The formal ceremony, hosted by Jassi Parmar, embodied the essence of Diwali—light, unity, and gratitude. Atul Wahi returned to introduce the UPA Board of Directors, Executive Team, and Diwali Core Team, acknowledging their tireless efforts. Madhu Uppal warmly welcomed dignitaries, including Shay Alina, Anil Loomba, Sunil Shah, Kadar Sodager, and Brij Sharma, among others. Atul Wahi expressed heartfelt gratitude to the event’s sponsors, particularly International Fresh Market, whose support was pivotal in bringing the community together.

The Lamp Lighting Ceremony, a cherished Diwali tradition, saw members of the Diwali Mela Core Team—Shay Alina, Anil Loomba, Sunil Shah, Kadar Sodager, Brij Sharma, Atul Wahi, Gurpreet Singh, Shivam V., Sakshi Sharma, Falguni Sukhdia, Rosey Bhasin, and Jassi Parmar—joined by dignitaries in lighting the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The national anthems of the United States, performed by Shriya Tiwari, and India, sung by Shikha Tandon, filled the venue with pride and unity.

The Community Hero Awards honored individuals whose contributions have uplifted the Chicagoland community. Jassi Parmar introduced each awardee, with Shivam and Sakshi managing slides that highlighted their achievements. The awardees included Shay Alina, presented by Atul Wahi and Brij Sharma; Kader Sodagar, honored by Rosey Bhasin, Shammi Wahi, and Atul Wahi; Uma Katiki, recognized by Gurpreet Singh, Rosey Bhasin, and Madhu Uppal; Shivam V., celebrated by Subhash, Sakshi Sharma, and Rosey Bhasin; Yogi Bhardwaj, awarded by Ashok Bhardwaj, Atul Wahi, and Brij Sharma; Vijay and Brij Sharma, presented by Anil Loomba and Atul Wahi; and Atul Wahi, honored by Sunil Shah, Sudhir Sukheja, and Sarita Sood. Each citation underscored the recipients’ commitment to service, inspiring the audience with their stories of impact.

The ceremony also celebrated the dance school teachers and choreographers, with participation certificates 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). The Dance Awards, announced by Madhu Uppal, Shivam, and Sakshi, celebrated the standout performances, while the AIANA Hindi Diwas Awards recognized ten students for their efforts in promoting Hindi language and culture.

The cultural segment was a vibrant celebration of India’s diversity. Ashke Bhangra Club set the stage on fire with a 12-minute performance, followed by spirited acts from Inspire School of Dance, including a solo by Sophia Wahi. Indian Idol sensation Piyush Panwar captivated the audience with a 20-minute performance, his soulful melodies resonating deeply. A 25-minute rendition of the Ramayana by SOS brought epic storytelling to life, while performances by Hari Om Mandir, Payel’s Group, Sant Nirankari Mission, Madhura Sane’s Junior and Senior Groups, and Arya Samaj added unique hues to the cultural palette.

The Karaoke Singing Program featured soulful performances by Dr. Pradeep, Sargam Kapoor, Manmeet Kaur, Payel Roy G, and Abhinav Srivastav, whose Hawaiian guitar added a distinctive flair. The energy peaked during the two-hour Garba extravaganza, where the open floor came alive with a DJ, live music, and invited singers. Attendees of all ages joined in, showcasing their best moves in a vibrant celebration of Gujarati folk dance, supported by Desi Junction Media and Outland Media.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the volunteers, performers, sponsors, and attendees who made Diwali Mela 2025 a resounding success. The vendor wrap-up and venue closure followed, marking the end of a day filled with light, love, and community spirit. The UPA Punjabis of America Scholarship Fund, in partnership with the Community Foundation of Fox River Valley, was highlighted, underscoring the organization’s commitment to education and empowerment.

UPA Diwali Mela 2025 was more than an event—it was a celebration of heritage, unity, and the enduring spirit of Diwali. From the electrifying performances to the heartfelt recognitions, every moment radiated joy and pride. As the Matrix Club glowed with the light of thousands of diyas, the event left an indelible mark, promising to shine even brighter in the years to come.

UPA Diwali Mela 2025 was a radiant celebration of culture and community, uniting hearts through the universal language of joy. At Asian Media USA, we are honored to share the story of this vibrant event, which exemplifies the power of tradition and togetherness. May the light of Diwali continue to inspire us, fostering unity and hope for a brighter future.