American Telugu Association (ATA) celebrated International Women’s Day in Chicago on a grandeur scale at Play’N’Thrive Schaumburg with much fervor and gusto. This year Women’s day theme, #BetterforBalance, focused primarily on a call to action for gender balance. The event started with Ganesh Stotram followed by the Chief Guest, Indian Consular Officer Mrs. Rajeshwari Chadrasekharan, lighting the ceremonial lamp along with ATA Women’s Day organizers. A welcome address was given by ATA Board of Trustee Dr. Meher Medavaram focusing on gender equality and equal opportunities for women in leadership at all levels of decision making in political, business and economic arenas. Mrs. Chandrasekharan eloquently spoke to attendees about how Indian women have excelled in the US, their challenges in modern day society, women’s issues and women empowerment. Immigration Attorney Adaikala Mary Kennedy also gave insight about her services and how to strike a balance between work and life. Raffle Ticket Prize winners were awarded Gold Coins sponsored by Sri Krishna Jewelers. The fashion show was the highlight of the event with ladies from various age groups actively participating. Scores of women dressed in ethnic attire thoroughly enjoyed the festivities and had a great time visiting several vendor booths. A sumptuous lunch was served to attendees. Singers Madhuri, Sailaja and Shirley enthralled everyone with Bollywood and Tollywood songs. Gift cards were awarded to various game prize winners, and the program ended with plenty of dancing to the DJ’s music. ATA Board of Trustees Dr. Meher Medavaram and Sainath Reddy Boyapalli oversaw the day’s proceedings. Decoration and arrangements were taken care of by Ramana Abbaraju, Amar Nettem, Suchitra Reddy, Laxmi Boyapalli, Chalma Bandaru, Venkat Thudi, Mahipal Vancha, Hari Raini, Jagan Bukkaraju, Narsimha Chittaluri, Bheemi Reddy, Satish Yellamilli and Bhanu Swargam. ATA founder member & Past President Hanumanth Reddy garu motivated everyone with his presence and applauded the Sponsors, Volunteers and Local organizations for their continued, unwavering support.
