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www.desitalkchicago.com – that’s all you need to know Punjab Times Celebrates 27th Anniversary In Chicago I n the vibrant mosaic of Chicago’s multicul- tural community, where people from every corner of the world have built new lives while preserving their heritage, one media organization has earned a special place in the hearts of thousands of Punjabi families. For more than a decade, Punjab Times has grown from a local television initiative into one of the Midwest’s most respected Punjabi- language media platforms, becoming far more than a source of news and entertain- ment. Today, it serves as a trusted cultural bridge, connecting the traditions, values, and spirit of Punjab with the aspirations and everyday experiences of Punjabi Americans living throughout Chicagoland and neighboring states. Since its inception, Punjab Times’ pro- gramming offers comprehensive cover- age of breaking news from Punjab, India, and the United States while highlighting stories that directly impact local resi- dents. Beyond current affairs, the channel enriches viewers with health awareness programs, educational discussions, busi- ness features, women’s empowerment, youth-oriented content, and vibrant cultural programming celebrating Punjabi music, bhangra, folk traditions, religious festivals, and community gatherings. For first-generation immigrants navi- gating life in a new country, Punjab Times has become a reassuring presence that helps overcome language barriers, pre- serves cultural identity, and strengthens family values while encouraging success- ful integration into American society. Going beyond daily headlines, the channel shines a spotlight on the remark- able journeys of Punjabi professionals, physicians, engineers, entrepreneurs, educators, artists, community leaders, and young achievers who have made significant contributions throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. Punjab Times has also demonstrated leadership during periods of crisis and uncertainty. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenging times, the channel became a dependable source of trusted information by providing public health guidance, organizing virtual town hall discussions with medical experts, sharing community resources, and offer- ing emotional support through thoughtful programming. Recognizing the rapidly changing media landscape, Punjab Times has successfully expanded its reach beyond traditional television by embracing digital innovation. Through live streaming, social media platforms, mobile-friendly content, and on-demand programming, the channel has effectively connected with younger generations while continuing to serve its long-time viewers. Its civic engagement includes support for blood donation drives, educa- tional scholarship initia- tives, diabetes prevention campaigns, health aware- ness programs, charitable fundraising efforts, and numerous nonprofit activi- ties that benefit the South Asian community. Innovation continues to be one of Pun- jab Times’ greatest strengths. Interactive talk shows, live call-in programs, audience polls, collaborations with emerging Pun- jabi artists and influencers, career guid- ance for young professionals, and popular culinary segments featuring authentic Punjabi recipes adapted for American households have transformed the viewing experience into an engaging community conversation. The story of Punjab Times is, in many respects, the story of Chicago’s Punjabi community itself—a story of resilience, determination, cultural pride, and re- markable achievement. Punjab Times supporters and staff posing for photos on the occasion of its 27th anniversary. PHOTOS:ASIAN MEDIA USA 17 CITY VIEWS July 3, 2026 By a StaffWriter C hicago’s North Side became a magnificent dis- play of devotion, culture, and spiritual celebra- tion as thousands of devotees, families, and visi- tors gathered for ISKCON Chicago’s 52nd Annual Ratha Yatra (Festival of Chariots). The beloved Hindu festival transformed the streets from Rogers Park to Loyola Beach Park into a vibrant procession of sacred music, colorful traditional attire, and heartfelt devotion. The majestic chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra (Balaram), and Lady Sub- hadra rolled through the city as thousands enthusiasti- cally pulled the ropes, symbolizing their desire to bring the Lord closer to every heart. The rhythmic sounds of mridangam drums and karatals, combined with the continuous chanting of the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra, attracted not only devotees but also countless residents and visitors who paused to witness one of Chicago’s most colorful multicultural celebrations. The celebration began early Saturday morning at ISK- CON Chicago’s historic temple at 1304West Birchwood Avenue, where at exactly 11:00 a.m., the beautifully deco- rated wooden chariots slowly emerged from the temple grounds amid loud cries of “Jaya Jagannath!” Thousands of devotees eagerly grasped the ceremonial ropes and pulled the chariots. According to ancient Vedic tradition, pulling Lord Jagannath’s chariot is considered a rare spiri- tual blessing that symbolizes inviting the Supreme Lord into one’s life and heart, devotees believe. Families traveled from around Illinois and neighbor- ing states, includingWisconsin, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Champaign-Urbana, Naperville, and numerous Chicago suburbs, with many making several hours’ journey for this annual celebration. Every generation was repre- sented—from infants riding comfortably in decorated strollers to senior citizens walking with prayer beads in hand. One particularly heartwarming sight was a devotee accompanied by her well-behaved dog. Indian culture was displayed in the elegant saris in brilliant shades of red, royal blue, emerald green, saffron, pink, and shim- mering gold, and men in kurtas and traditional dhotis. The procession was guided by His Holiness Candram- auli Swami and His Holiness Bhakti Marg Swami, as the procession moved along Sheridan Road toward Loyola Beach Park, with the continuous chanting of the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra echoeing through the neighbor- hood, drawing curious residents onto sidewalks and bal- conies to witness the extraordinary display of devotion. Many first-time observers joined the singing, clapped along with the music, accepted blessings from the devo- tees, and experienced firsthand the universal message of peace, compassion, and love that the festival represents. On reaching Loyola Beach Park, the lakeside festi- val grounds came alive with an afternoon filled with devotional music, cultural performances, educational exhibits, family entertainment, and vegetarian cuisine. The main stage featured kirtans, Odissi classical dance performed by the Aikyam Ensemble, and dramatic presentations that brought Vedic teachings to life. Among the day’s highlights was Kunjabihari Kalanidhi’s Ramayana Dance Drama, which captivated audiences through its artistic portrayal of Lord Rama’s eternal message of righteousness, sacrifice, and devotion. The ISKCONYouth Bus Tour also received enthusiastic ap- plause for its thought-provoking production, “Big Fish, Little Fish,” written by Bhakti Marg Swami, which ex- plored Vedic wisdom through engaging storytelling. The colorful Dasavatara Dance, celebrating Lord Vishnu’s ten divine incarnations, energized the audience and beauti- fully showcased India’s rich spiritual heritage. Children delighted in face painting, henna art, magic shows, interactive games, and educational exhibits in the Family Fun Zone, while adults browsed cultural displays and devotional book exhibits. Thousands gathered to receive complimentary prasadam, sanctified vegetar- ian meals, which volunteers distributed throughout the afternoon. International Society For Krishna Consciousness, ISKCON, Holds Chicago’s 52nd Annual Rath Yatra PHOTO:ASIAN MEDIA USA A section of the participants in ISKCON’s 52nd Rath Yatra in Chicago. By a StaffWriter