Harmony in Healing: Indian American Medical Association's Illinois chapter 45th Gala Celebrates Community, Leadership, and Legacy

Chicago, IL: 
In the crisp embrace of a fall evening, the Indian American Medical Association (IAMA) Illinois chapter transformed a chilly night into a warm tapestry of camaraderie, culture, and celebration at its 45th Annual Gala and Business Meeting. Held at Ashyana Banquets, Downers Grove, IL, the event wasn't just a gathering - it was a vibrant testament to the unbreakable bonds that Indian American physicians forge between medicine, community, and heritage. With laughter echoing through the halls, melodies dancing in the air, and stories of selfless service shared over sumptuous feasts, the gala honored the healers who light up lives far beyond the clinic walls.

The evening kicked off with infectious energy, hosted by the dynamic husband and wife duo of Ashok and Megha Doshi. "Relax and enjoy a fun-filled evening in the warm company of your friends," Ashok urged the assembled guests, setting a tone of joy and connection. Megha, with her self-proclaimed "gift of gab," playfully defended the art of conversation, citing medical research that links socialization to lower risks of dementia and delayed Alzheimer's. "Talking is an art, do you agree?" she quipped, drawing chuckles and nods from the crowd. Their banter was a perfect prelude to the patriotic harmonies that followed.

Sixteen-year-old Ashi Sarai, a junior at Hinsdale Central High School, competitive tennis player, and choral enthusiast, captivated the audience with a soul-stirring rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner." Her clear, youthful voice soared through the verses, evoking pride in the land of the free. Joining her was the multifaceted Dr. Rohit Vasa, a marathon runner, photographer, traveler, and leader in numerous organizations, including IAMA and its charitable foundation. Dr. Vasa's heartfelt performance of the Indian national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," bridged continents, reminding everyone of the dual heritage that fuels this community's spirit.

Stepping into the spotlight as Master of Ceremonies was Jason Shah, son of outgoing IAMA President Dr. Dilip Shah. Jason, a tech entrepreneur and former Chief Technology Officer at Mediafly, brought humor and heart to the stage. "I'm one of the only people in our family who doesn't have an MD," he joked, "which means Dad is still trying to figure out where he went wrong." Yet, his tribute to physicians was profound. Drawing from personal anecdotes like fielding frantic calls during a family emergency when his father rushed to aid a heart attack victim, Jason painted doctors as "community connectors." These are the unsung heroes who turn casual questions into lifelong bonds, distill complex diagnostics into comforting clarity, and offer second opinions when Google falls short. "Your unwavering willingness to answer even the silliest questions gives us peace of mind that no other profession provides," he said, earning thunderous applause.

The gala seamlessly wove business with bliss. Dr. Medavarm, President-Elect, stepped in admirably for Dr. Suresh, who was abroad due to a family emergency, to introduce chief guest Mr. Larry Herman. As Village President of Oakbrook since April 2023, Herman a JD, CBA, and head of an independent insurance brokerage, praised the community's medical density. "Oakbrook probably has the highest concentration per capita of medical professionals anywhere in Illinois, if not the country," he declared, half-jokingly recruiting non-residents to move in. Succeeding Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, another giant in Oakbrook's history, Herman highlighted the village's allure: top-tier schools, malls, restaurants, and a family-friendly vibe enriched by IAMA members like the Shah family, spanning generations.

The annual business meeting, led by IAMA Secretary Dr. Rajeev Kumar, was brisk and efficient. With heartfelt thanks for members' support, Dr. Kumar announced the election of officers for 2026. The nominating committee—Drs. Raj Arora, Amarjit Singh, and President Dilip Shah—proposed a stellar slate: Dr. Rajeev Kumar as President-Elect, Dr. Neetha Dhananjaya as Secretary-Elect, and Dr. Vivek Mohan as Treasurer-Elect. With no floor nominations and unanimous approval, the slate was elected. Incoming President Dr. Meher Medavaram for 2026 joined the stage with other officers—including Secretary Tapan Parikh (absent), Treasurer Dr. Ram Saladi, and Young Physicians leader Dr. Divia Surabhi for a celebratory photo, symbolizing continuity and fresh vision.

Outgoing President Dr. Dilip Shah's address was a reflective journey through a year of triumphs. From donating warm blankets to the Salvation Army in February to raising over $180,000 at the IAMA CF fundraising event in April, the chapter's impact was palpable. Free medical camps served over 400 attendees with EKGs, lab tests, CPR training, and medications. Other events included World Yoga Day in collaboration with FIA, a September trip to Vietnam and Cambodia fostering lifelong friendships among 38 participants, and the Golden Stethoscope Award where 24 young physicians and students presented research, with the top three receiving monetary prizes highlighted innovation. The Fall Walkathon around the Salt Creek in Fullersburg Woods drew 30 for scenic strolls and spirited complaints over food. Webinars and educational sessions run year-round. "I'm thankful to the executive committee, especially Dr. Niranjana Shah, my backbone, and Dr. Medavaram and Rajeev, for constant support," Dr. Shah said. As the most senior president in recent years, he quipped about wisdom trumping youth, echoing Reagan's wit.

A special highlight was the address from the President of AAPI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin), Dr. Amit Chakrabharti. Praising IAMA Chicago as a "beacon of community engagement, professional excellence, and cultural pride," the speaker outlined national initiatives: oath-taking on the Gita, a Patagonia tour, an upcoming AAPI retreat in Iowa with consultations and classical music, global summits in Odisha (with the President of India as invitee), trips to Sri Lanka and China, and the national convention in Tempa on July 2-4, coinciding with America's 250th Independence anniversary. Noting Oakbrook's prominence—with multiple AAPI leaders hailing from there, the speaker passed the torch to Dr. Meher Medavaram, predicting thriving innovation under her leadership.

Awards punctuated the night with well-deserved recognition. Honors included:
President's Appreciation Award to - Mr, Laurence Herman, JD, CPA Village President, presented by Dr. Dilip Shah.
Distinguished Physician Award to Piyush Vyas, MD by Mr. Herman.
Special Appreciation to Niranjana Shah, MD by Dr. Neetha Dhananjaya.
Leadership Award to Dr. Samir Shah (accepted by his friend Dr. Brij Malani due to absence), for his IAMA CF work, presented by Dr. Ram Saladi.
Community Service Award to Dr. Suresh (accepted on his behalf amid family emergency) by Dr. Chakrabharti's representative.
Dr. Usharani Nimmagadda Woman Physician Leadership Award - Meghmala Doshi, MD by Dr. Anu Malhotra.
Appreciation Award for President - Dilip Shah, MD by Dr. Rajeev Kumar.
Each recipient embodied IAMA's ethos of service beyond self.

As the formalities faded, Annu Malhotra, President of Mindful Meditation Yoga and FIA, took the stage. Celebrating a record-breaking International Yoga Day with over 1,200 participants in collaboration with IAMA, she congratulated Dr. Shah. "Now it's time to add spark and rhythm," she announced, introducing the band led by trained vocalist Heat Fire. With roots in Indian classical, Sufi, and fusion, Heat Fire (honored with global excellence awards) promised a journey from soulful slow numbers to electrifying dances. Backed by Team Sur Saga and a co-singer, the performance ignited the night, blending cultures in melody.

Dinner followed with savory delicious flavors while conversations flowed. The gala wasn't merely an event; it was a living mosaic of healing hands, heartfelt stories, and harmonious futures. In an era of division, IAMA Illinois reminds us that medicine transcends borders - it's a sacred trust uniting generation, communities, and dreams.

Suresh Bodiwala as the founder of Asian Media USA stated “I am continually inspired by gatherings like IAMA's 45th Gala, where professional excellence meets cultural pride. These physicians aren't just healers; they're bridge-builders fostering unity in diverse America. Events like this reinforce our diaspora’s vital role in society leading with heart, heritage, and hope. Congratulations to all; may your legacy continue to illuminate paths for future generations.”