Photo story: The first day of Chaalo Gujarat 2012 in New Jersey

Ahmedabad/New Jersey, 1 September 2012

The three day biennial event by Association of Indian Americans of North America (AIANA) ‘Chaalo Gujarat’ 2012 started off today with full fervor in New Jersey, USA. The day-1 of the three day ‘World Gujarati Conference’ kick started with full Gujarati enthusiasm and ‘kem cho’ sound all around. The banging of the Nagara by dignitaries marked the beginning of the first day of ‘World Gujarati Conference 2012’; New Jersey. The grand Darwaja of ‘Vadnagar’ welcomed everyone with open arms. The Giant Charkha the symbol of self entrepreneurship was displayed outside the hall. The traditional auto rickshaws that chauffeured the guests from the entry towards the pavilion were also nostalgic in its theme. Even Congressman Frank Pallone tried his hand in driving the traditional Auto Rickshaw. The beautiful pol replica amused the guest with its rainbow colored appearance.

The inaugural ceremony boasted, with the amalgamation of American National Anthem and Indian National Anthem, on the same platform, followed by Nagarana Nade and opening speeches by various dignitaries including Mayor of Edison Antonia Toni Ricigliano and Congressman Frank Pallone. AIANA President Sunil Nayak Spoke on the main motive behind organizing such an event, he started off by saying that “this platform is to welcome all Guajarati’s living away from their homeland. The three day event promises to be full of Gujarati flavor. We are expecting nearly 50,000 guests from the UK, the US, India, Africa, the Gulf and Australia to attend the conference”.

Leader of opposition, Mr. Shaktisinh Gohil addressed the public by saying ‘The event is a reminiscent of a mini Gujarat away from Gujarat’. Parimal Nathwani reciprocated a similar view by saying ‘An event to celebrate Gujaratism is phenomenal. The three day event focuses on rejoicing factor. Enjoy to the core, leave everything behind.’ Mayor of Edison Antonia Toni Ricigliano in his speech said ‘The event that celebrates the brand Gujarat is awe inspiring. A vast podium where Gujarati people celebrate Gujratism is admirable; it shows how much you love your origin.’ Kamlesh Patel Chairman, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) also spoke about changing face of Gujarat and tourism development measures happening across the state, before the audience.

But, the apex of Day 1 was the beginning of 3 day discourse or famous ‘Katha’ by revered Pujya Morari Bapu on ‘Gujarat’. Thousands of people were treated with a bouquet of spiritual and religious katha by Morari Bapu. Another focal point of the first day event was the ‘Theme song’ for ‘Chaalo Gujarat’ that was launched on the ocassion. The song is a delicacy for the ears. The song is all about ‘Pride of Gujarat’ for all Guajarati’s living across the globe.

A spectacular Multimedia show encompassing “Dhanya Dhara Saurashtra & Kutch Gaatha” was an enigma in itself to watch. The quiz show anchored by Chirag & Dhwanit was full of excitement and last but not the least, Hasaayro by Rais Maniar, Shyamal Munshi, Saumya Joshi, Mukesh Joshi the Lok Sangeet Dayro by Bhikhudan Gadhavi, Chetan Gadhavi, Bhartiben Vyas, Hasmukh Patadia reminds us of our culturally rich heritage. The event wrapped up with a message from our Space Girl, Indian born American astronaut, Suneeta Williams.

Exhibition stalls displaying variety of traditional Indian handicrafts & attires, TV channels with their latest offering in digital technologies, Real Estate developers with their budget friendly schemes.

How can a Gujarati event wrap up any day without mouth watering delicacies. The food pavilion was the final destination for every guest who assembled there. To cater to the taste buds of people who assembled at the event, special Gujarati cooks were flown in from Mumbai & Gujarat. The entrance fee of $45 for per person for three days including food is worth spending, experiencing the rich extravagance that the event offers. After the conclusion of the first day galore, ‘Chaalo Gujarat’ reflects a Gujarat in its true colors.