Delhi-Chicago Sister Cities international hosts Holi celebrations at Navy Pier

CHICAGO - The Delhi Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, ComEd and Navy Pier, partnered to host this year’s Global Connections: Holi event at the Navy Pier.

“As the Chairman of the Delhi Chicago Sister Cities Committee, it's really an honor to present and be a part of this Holi celebration,” said Smita N. Shah, Delhi Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International Chairman and SPAAN Tech, Inc. President & CEO.

“Navy Pier’s Global Connections Program curated a memorable celebration that has grown into the largest program in the United States for Holi. Chicago Sister Cities International is proud to be its partner as it represents [as to] why we do what we do: [i.e.] honor the diverse international communities that make up Chicago, celebrate the best of their culture, and support the desire for others to experience the American Dream; all of which makes Chicago stronger.”

“Holi is a reminder that good always triumphs over evil and those forces that wish to divide us, make no mistake about it, not here in the city of Chicago—Black, Brown, White, Asian, Young, Old, Rich, and Poor. We are the greatest city in the world because of the diversity that makes up this city,” said City of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

“Chicago's positive impact is felt all around the world…thanks to the hard work of Chicago Sister Cities International and the volunteer work of our committee members like Smita [Shah], who are so passionate about our city, so passionate about diplomacy and so passionate about our democracy.”

The free, public event transformed the Aon Grand Ballroom and Navy Pier Beer Garden into one of its kind Holi celebration, featuring live music, traditional cultural performances, authentic food from local vendors, the iconic colored powder-throwing that pays homage to the bright colors of spring and represent the triumph of good over evil and much more.

This program would not have been possible without the generous support of Niranjan S. Shah and Pratima Shah, the recipient of the Pravasi Bharatiya Award, Darryl Tom for whom whose family the famous Ping Tom Park is named, and the Sue Ling Gin Foundation.

Hanksed the Mayor, for hosting Holi every year, and expressed hope that the event continue to grow in the years to come in Chicago.