Desi talk

www.desitalkchicago.com – that’s all you need to know 10 CITY VIEWS April 3, 2026 Eighth Annual ‘Mandala Makers Festival’ Begins April 15 In Chicago, Focuses On ‘Live Composition’ M andala South Asian Performing Arts presents its eighth Mandala Makers Festival, an annual platform that supports multidisciplinary South Asian performing artists. Events showcasing music and dance begin April 15 and continue through October. The annual multidisciplinary arts festival that cel- ebrates the creativity, diversity, and innovation of South Asian artists in the United States and the global diaspora, was launched in 2019 in Chicago, and provides a plat- form for emerging and established artists working across dance, music, theater, film, and interdisciplinary perfor- mance, both traditional and contemporary expressions. This year’s performances shine a spotlight on “live composition,” with skilled performing artists creating in the moment. “As we have evolved from street performances in the Devon Avenue neighborhood, Mandala proudly presents a citywide festival with the same mission: to promote the new and next in the performance of South Asian dance and music. The spontaneity of the artists interacting and responding to each other will make each performance unique,” said Founding Artistic Director Pranita Nayar, quoted in the press release. The Festival goes on till October. For details of the program visit mandalaarts.org By a StaffWriter PHOTO:FACEBBOOK Banner photo on Facebook site @MandalaSouthAsianArts International Development Foundation USA Hosts Annual Fundraising Event In Chicago Advancing Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development I DFUSA ORG successfully hosted its Annual Fundrais- ing Charity Event at the Fairfield by Marriott in Scha- umburg, convening global leaders, policymakers, and changemakers to strengthen international collabora- tion and advance sustainable development initiatives. The event brought together diplomats, elected of- ficials, business leaders, and social impact advocates, highlighting IDFUSA ORG’s expanding role in delivering measurable, community-driven impact across India and Uganda. The evening was honored by distinguished guests including Mr. Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India, and Hon. Sarah Achieng Opendi, Member of Parliament, Uganda, who attended as Chief Guests. Mr. Jayakumar Nair, Delhi State Co-Convener of the BJP South Indian Cell, joined as Special Invitee. Prominent leaders such as Mr. Mafat Patel, Co-founder of Patel Brothers, and Dr. Bharat H. Barai, MD, were also in attendance, alongside respected community figures including Mr. Keerthi Kumar, Mr. Ajeet Singh, Mr. Hitesh Gandhi, Mr. Raju Pasumarthi, and Mr. Vijender Doma. The program showcased ongoing initiatives in educa- tion, women’s empowerment, sustainability, and grass- roots development, with a strong emphasis on scalable, partnership-based solutions. Key discussions highlighted future projects in Uganda, including a sustainable sanitary pad manufacturing initiative, a mid-day meal program, and expanded economic development efforts. Speakers also reflected on IDFUSA ORG’s participation at the United Nations CSW70, where conversations cen- tered on “Women and Green Jobs,” reinforcing the role of sustainability as a critical driver of inclusive growth. The event featured recognition of community leaders and innovators whose contributions continue to drive meaningful social change. “The evening reflects our shared commitment to compassion-driven action and measurable impact,” said leadership representatives, reaffirming the organization’s mission to build sustainable, inclusive communities through global partnerships. About IDFUSA ORG IDFUSA ORG is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing social impact through initiatives in education, healthcare, sustainability, and community development across underserved regions. By Bhailal M. Patel PHOTO COLLAGE ASIAN MEDIA USA Above and below: Scenes from the event.