Chicago, April 19, 2026.The Chicago Chapter of the Overseas Friends of the Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP USA) commemorated the 47th Foundation Day of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with a well-attended event that brought together members of the Indian diaspora, community leaders, and media professionals.
The program opened with the national anthems of the United States and India, followed by a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and Vedic invocation. Cultural performances by young student Vardaan Tiwari, who presented Vande Mataram on saxophone, and vocalist Yashaswini Desai added a patriotic and artistic dimension to the evening.
A moment of silence was observed in memory of veteran leader Shri Balbir Punj, honoring his contributions to India’s public life.
Rakesh Malhotra, Member of the OFBJP USA Executive Committee, highlighted the BJP’s ideological foundations and historical journey from the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (1951) to its establishment in 1980.”India’s destiny is greatness; our duty is to serve,” said Rakesh Malhotra, emphasizing the party’s commitment to inclusive development and public service.
Speakers also reflected on the principles of Integral Humanism, Antyodaya, and Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, underscoring their relevance in today’s global context.
The event featured active dialogue on diaspora engagement in U.S. civic life, with participants highlighting the role of organizations like OFBJP USA in strengthening India-U.S. relations through policy advocacy, trade cooperation, and community outreach.
Speakers also referenced key policy developments under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting their impact on India’s governance and socio-political landscape.
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