American Telugu Association [ATA] hosted a grand ATA Women’s Day 2016 to celebrate and to honor women in commemoration of the World’s Women’s Day and in conjunction with the forthcoming ATA Convention at Viceroy Banquet Hall in Lombard, Illinois that drew the attendance of over 250 guests predominantly women with their families.
The evening celebrations lauded the role of traditional Indian women who play a vital role in nurturing and shaping the family, community, and society and beyond; and their significant role was revered for their stoic commitment to the family values and time-honored traditions.
The event set off with the lighting of the lamp by Chandrasekhar Reddy Palvai, Convention Convener, Dr. Meher B. Medavaram, ATA Trustee, Krishna Mushyam Convention Co-Convener and Kamala Chimta, Convention Coordinator and Dr. Uma Katiki which was accompanied by a prayer song.
Women dressed in their finest traditional colorful sarees showed a great degree of grace and poise in showcasing their talents at the evening celebrations.
Chandrasekhar Reddy Palvai, ATA Convention Convener welcomed the guests and the couples and praised their important role in building American Telugu Association to its robust strength; while Mr. Krishna Mushyam Convention Co-Convener complemented women on their societal role and urged women to actively engage in the silver jubilee ATA Convention in the same vibrant spirit.
The event was conducted by Dr. Meher B. Medavaram, with the partnership of Dr. Uma Katiki, Chairperson for the Women’s Forum for the 2016 ATA Convention and her team along with women members of various committees.
Kamala Chimta, Convention Coordinator eloquently addressed the women in Telugu encouraging the empowerment of women as one of the key goals of ATA.
The event encompassed speakers who made informative healthcare and wellness presentations especially Dr. Arati Reddy, Endocrinologist who spoke on diabetes and thyroid disorders in women; followed by audience participation in question and answer session.
Mrs. Anu Malhotra, Health Care Executive gave a presentation on the art of stress-free living and taught the audience the power of breathing, relaxation and meditation technique. Mrs. Rifat Khan, Child Psychologist/CEO Douglas Center in Chicago also spoke.
With music, dance, fashion show and delectable food with shopping stalls of sarees and jewelry. The women received prizes for categories such as: best dressed the best dancers and a raffle, along with charity fundraiser events for old age home in India.
The meeting was also attended by the ATA committee chairs and members: Mr. Venkat Thudi, Mr. Ramana Abhiraju and Mr. Bhanu Swargam.
