Indian Overseas Congress addressed live from Chicago to a big audience of patriotic NRIs gathered at the 70th Republic Day celebrated at a large scale on Saturday, January 26th in Christos Church Auditorium hosted by IOC Kerala  Pennsylvania chapter. The IOC PA chapter President Santhosh Abraham chaired the event. Kerala Chapter National President Joby George has organized India’s Republic Day celebrations annually for many years.

IOC USA National President Shudh Prakash Singh, General Secretary Rajender Dichpally, Vice President Kalathil Varughese, Treasurer Vinit Nagpal and Kerala Chapter National President Joby George gave felicitations and congratulated the chapter for taking the initiative for the celebration.  Shalu Punnoose, secretary welcomed all attendees.

State Senator John Sabatina respectively was the chief guest while State Representative Martina White, City Councilman Derek Green were both guest speakers. In his speech, Sabatina said the republic day celebration is the most appropriate as India is a great democratic country and he appreciates IOC Kerala chapter took the initiative to celebrate. “I am proud to be attending the event.” Martina White said, “Indians in the region are well respected and a law-abiding community, I am happy to join your celebrations.” Derek Green said, ” its good to note the Indian community is getting  involved in the mainstream politics.”

The Membership campaign for IOC was inaugurated by Shudh Parkash Singh who received 50 membership forms from Santhosh Abraham for new members.  Shudh said in his presidential address “ We must make membership drive successful under the leadership of IOC Chairman Dr. Sam Pitroda in order to make IOC a stronger organization. Congress Party led the independence movement and got freedom for India.  Now is the time to make people aware and urge them to join the oldest party of India to keep India secular and progressive.”

Dr. Pitroda in his message through Facebook Live congratulated Kerala Chapter National President Joby George and Chairman Kalathil Varghese for this mega event. Sam Pitroda highlighted India’s progress made in 70 years and urged the audience to join IOC and become members. The elaborate cultural program organized by Geemon George included dances, live music and other varieties of entertainment.

More than 50 children and adults performed on stage making it an evening to remember.

The 26 January celebrations ended with a Kerala style dinner with over 250 people in attendance including leaders of various organizations.