Chicago IL: All those who believe in democratic and secular values should come forward to work with the Indian National Congress, considering the political changes in India, Kerala Minister Thiruvachoor Radhakrishnan said. Inaugurating the first national convention of the Indian National Overseas Congress (INOC) Kerala chapter at the Syro-Malabar Church Auditorium in Bellwood, Illinois, August 21, he asked people to be vigilant to the changes taking place in India and support the efforts of the Congress to uphold the values inherited from Mahathma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.

He also noted the importance of participating in the American political system. Every eligible Indian should exercise his right to vote at the national elections in the US, he said.

Radhakrishnan inaugurated the event lighting the traditional lamp. Other dignitaries who were present at the well attended event included State Senator Michael Noland, Oak Brook Mayor Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, Ms. Shobhana Verma, Director of South Asian Outreach Program at Chicago Board of Election Commission, US Congressional Candidate, Ms. Susana Sandoval, Florida State Rep Candidate, Mr. Sajan Kurian and other community members.

The event started with a reception to the guests with the traditional \"thalapoli\" led by Elsy Venkadeth and chendamelam led by Kurien George.

Dr. Mammen C Jacob served as the emcee of the program. The American National Anthem was sung by Allen Chennoth and Indian National Anthem by Subash George. Mr. Gladson Varghese, hosting committee leader and president of INOC Chicago Chapter, introduced the chief guest and thanked all the local committee members for helping and making the event a grand success. He noted the many achievements of the Congress especially in economy since 1947 making the country a world economic power.

INOC National General Secretary Dr. Salbi Chennoth welcomed the gathering. In his presidential address Joby George, national president, asked all Congressmen to unite under the banner of INOC, which is the only organization approved by the AICC.

Mayor Dr. Gopal Lalmalani said that there are several similarities between Kerala and the City of Oak Brook pointing out a few examples like literacy rate and life expectancy rate.

State Senator Mike Noland said that he had done some research on Kerala and its natural beauty. He commended the remarkable service done by the Malayalee community and INOC members in the United States. He presented a proclamation to INOC Kerala Chapter from the Illinois State Senate, signed by Senate President, John Cullerton and himself for their valuable contribution to the community.

INOC USA president, Lavika Bhagat Singh, INOC USA Chairman Shudh Prakash Singh, INOC Executive Vice President Chakot Radhakrishnan, Vice President Kalathil Varghese and other leaders also spoke and praised the organizers for a flawless convention.

Dr. Anupam Radhakrishnan, Chief Editor and Secretary released the event souvenir which was received by the minister and senator. The souvenir carried congratulatory messages from distinguished dignitaries from India and US.

Treasurer Saji Abraham proposed the vote of thanks.

The meeting concluded with a colorful entertainment program emceed by Mr. Subash George, executive committee member, who introduced the performers from various local dance schools. Participating schools included Soorya Dance Academy, Shingari School of Rhythm, Lalu Palamattom group, Nevin Tobiaz, and Ashley & Team.

They performed Bollywood and fusion numbers which was greatly appreciated by the audience.

An authentic Kerala style dinner-\"Ona Sadhya,\" was served to all the attendees.

(Suresh Bodiwala/Asian Media USA)

Unite under Congress to save democratic values: Minister Thiruvanchoor at INOC convention