Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson Hosts Grand Diwali Celebration at City Hall

Chicago, IL: 
In the heart of the Windy City, where steel skyscrapers pierce the autumn sky like defiant sentinels, a different kind of light pierced through on October 20, 2025. At Chicago City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle Street, the grand Diwali Festival of Light Reception unfolded like a living tapestry, weaving tradition, triumph, and togetherness. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, in partnership with the Indian American Business Council, hosted a grand Diwali Celebration Reception at City Hall. The event, illuminated by glowing lamps, vibrant hues, and harmonious melodies, affirmed amid global divisions that Diwali's enduring light prevails over darkness.

The festivities opened with a traditional Lamp Lighting Ceremony, embodying Diwali's spirit. Ajeet Singh, President of the Indian American Business Council, led the rite, joined by Mayor Johnson; Consul General of India Somnath Ghosh; City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Irvin; Alderwoman Shweta Baid of Aurora; Alderman David Moore; and community leaders Neil Khot, Sunil Shah, Harish Kolasani, Ganesh Kar, Harry Mohan, and Keerthi Ravoori.

The evening escalated into vibrant energy through music and interactive dance, guided by Ajanta Chakraborty and her team, diverging from tradition to foster communal exuberance.

In his address, Mayor Johnson stated, "As long as I'm mayor, we will always host the Diwali celebration at City Hall." This commitment underscores a vision for a city shaped by immigrants, dreamers, and innovators worldwide. He praised Chicago's diversity as a global strength and lauded Indian Americans' contributions to its essence. "Now more than ever, we require peace and joy" to establish Chicago as a beacon of inclusion, prosperity, and dignity.

During the lively dances, Mayor Johnson received dandiya sticks and participated with graceful steps, accompanied by Consul General Somnath Ghosh and other dignitaries.

City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Irvin offered Diwali greetings, declaring, "Diversity is our strength—our superpower." Addressing the children, she noted, "You embody the world's goodness." She acknowledged Consul General Ghosh and Ajeet Singh, concluding, "This builds bridges: today yours, tomorrow mine."

Consul General od India Somnath Ghosh invoked poetic depth: "Namaste—happy Diwali." Thanking officials and organizers, he observed, "Diwali's smallest flame dispels the deepest darkness, delivering peace to turmoil, prosperity to want, and love to hatred." He urged a return to inner light, reflecting Chicago's collective humanity.

Ajeet Singh's welcome address thanked Mayor Johnson for leading four consecutive Diwali events at City Hall, each surpassing the last in excellence. Ajeet Singh added the Indian American community is forever indebted for your generosity in hosting Diwali festivities.

Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Chair of the Indian American Business Council, closed by thanking the mayor for utilizing City Hall's quadrangle for this grand reception and thanked the Mayor and Consul General of India for exemplifying the spirit of Diwali.

Ajanta Chakraborty excelled as emcee, commended for her energetic poise and articulate command. Ajanta Chakraborty received glowing appreciation for her role as the emcee.