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THAN 300 GUESTS ATTEND GALA 61st INDIA INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Anaheim, CA, August 18, 2008 Anaheim City Councilman Harry Sidhu and his wife, Gin, hosted a gala 61st India Independence Day Celebration at their historic Old Yorba Estate home on Sunday, August 17, 2008, which was attended by more than 300 guests. A broad representation of prominent elected officials and civic leaders were in attendance, including:
The evening began with a ceremonial procession of the U.S. flag by the Anaheim Police Department Color Guard followed by a hosting of the flag of India. The U.S. National Anthem was performed by Nicole Glenn (10th grade student and granddaughter of Anaheim Civic Leaders Dr. June Glenn and Dr. Hugh Glenn), followed by Ami Khetani (wife of Ajay Khetani, Investment Advisory Commissioner of Anaheim) and Mrs. Permjitt Chawla, singing a duet of the Jana Gana Mana – India’s National Anthem, and Vande Mataram – the National Song of India. Dr. Nitin Shah, prominent physician and Chair of the Jain Centers Resources Committee, and keynote speaker, OC Supervisor Chris Norby, each provided engaging historical perspectives on India and American ideals of independence. Renowned cardiologist, Dr. Harvinder Sahota, gave an inspirational invocation. Entertainment included patriotic, classical, and popular Indian songs superbly sung by Ketan and Ami Mehta. A “Fusion” of a classical dance, called Katak with Bollywood moves, was also joyfully performed by Priya Vallabh, Priya Patel, & Diya Mishra. And, Viji Prakash – the guru of dance as Founder and Artistic Director of Shakti Dance Co., introduced her six talented dancers who thrilled the gathering with their majestic movement and stylistic performance. The highlight of the evening was the meaningful speech presented by the host - Councilman Harry Sidhu, who graciously expressed what an honor it was to have everyone join “in wonderful celebration of the true meaning of independence, freedom, liberty, and cultural diversity.” He thoughtfully explained that, “Occasions such as this demonstrate why we must continually endeavor to make a difference in the communities in which we live in the spirit of these ideals. And, by sharing in these ideals, as we are doing here tonight, we pave a bright future path to travel together.” Councilman Sidhu further stated that, “Respect for others, preserving independence, liberty, and freedom must always be at the center of our endeavors.” Notably, Councilman Sidhu said, “I love America, and it continues to be my privilege and honor to serve as a Councilman in the vibrant and culturally diverse City of Anaheim – the city of Champions! It is my goal to continue to make a truthful, living, difference as an elected official and businessman helping others in all facets of daily living and in business. Protecting and acting in the best interests of the taxpayers and improving our quality of living remain my key objectives.” In closing, Councilman Sidhu gave very special thanks to his wonderful wife, Gin, for her amazing efforts in making the event possible, their fantastic kids, Sohina and Rohan, and his "Mother” (-in-law), Harbhajan Bansal. For the past four years, Harry Sidhu has served as an Anaheim City
Councilman – the first Indian American to achieve this position.
He is running for re-election to a second term. More information
on his re-election campaign will soon be available on his website:
www.joinharry.com.
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