Asia91: Latest News & Stories for Indians and Desi South Asians in U.S.

Robin Shahani Inducted into IAOP Leadership Hall of Fame

Image Credit: boardroominsiders

Chicago Schools Settle $2.6M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hindu Religious Coercion

Chicago, IL— In a significant legal development, the Chicago Board of Education and the New York-based David Lynch Foundation have agreed to a $2.6 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit alleging that public high school students were subjected to Hindu religious practices under the guise of a meditation program. The settlement, approved on May 8, 2025, concludes a three-year legal battle centered around the "Quiet Time" initiative implemented in several Chicago public high schools between 2015 and 2019.

Golden Girls of Chicago Unite to Empower Women and Honor Indian Mothers

Chicago, IL— In a heartfelt initiative blending cultural pride with social responsibility, the Golden Girls of Chicago officially launched on May 12, 2025. Founded by Mina Purohit, a prominent TV host and Gujarati film producer, the group aims to empower women and honor elderly mothers in India through its signature program, "Maa Tujhe Salaam."

Why Indian Americans Gathered Outside Pakistan’s Consulate in Chicago

Chicago, IL — In a striking show of unity and grief, hundreds of Indian Americans gathered outside the Pakistan Consulate in Chicago on April 28 to protest the brutal terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam region that killed 26 civilians.

Kohinoor Banquets Launches a New Era of Celebration and Community Unity in Skokie

Chicago, IL: On April 11, 2025, Kohinoor Banquets officially opened its doors at 4400 Oakton Street in Skokie, Illinois, marking a significant milestone for the local South Asian and broader community.

Indian-American Kevin Patel Shot Dead in Chicago’s Lincoln Park

Chicago, IL: Kevin Patel, a 28-year-old Indian-American man, was tragically shot in the chest and killed on the evening of April 16 in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, a neighborhood known for its historic charm and upscale residences.

Ashfaq Syed Elected as First Indian American on Naperville City Council

Image Credit: ashfaqfornaperville.com

Faith by Plate Act: Illinois Mandates Halal and Kosher Meals in Public Institutions

Kosher Certification in the left, Halal Certification in the right

Naperville Elects First Indian American to City Council

Image Credit: supnajain204.com & ashfaqfornaperville.com

Malpua, Thandai, and Community Spirit in Schaumburg — Brought by BJUS

Schaumburg, Illinois: The Bihar Jharkhand Association of Midwest (BJUS) orchestrated a lively event at the National India Hub, seamlessly blending the exuberance of Holi with the significance of International Women's Day. Over 300 community members gathered to partake in cultural performances, savor traditional cuisine, and engage in spirited activities.

MMNA Honors 'Sakhis' in Heartwarming Women's Day Celebration

Chicago: In a heartfelt celebration of International Women's Day, the Maheshwari Mahasabha of North America (MMNA) honored the invaluable contributions of 'Sakhis'—female friends and supporters—within the community. The event underscored the significance of women's empowerment and the strength derived from mutual support.

Indian Heritage Night Shines Bright in Chicago with FIA & Windy City Bulls

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA)-Chicago brought desi pride to the basketball court with an unforgettable Indian Heritage Night alongside the Windy City Bulls on March 2, 2024, at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois. The event was a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, sports, and community spirit, uniting hundreds of Indian Americans under one roof.

Chicago’s Indian Community Celebrates BJP’s Landslide Victory with Joyful Festivities

The Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) in Chicago erupted in celebrations after the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) impressive electoral victory in India. The event, filled with patriotic fervor, brought together Indian-Americans from across the city to rejoice in the party’s continued leadership in Delhi.

Chicago's Only Hindu Cremation Facility Seeks Urgent Help to Keep Serving the Community

Moksh Dham Hindu Cremation Inc., Chicago’s only Hindu cremation facility, has made an urgent appeal for financial support to continue providing dignified last rites for the Indian and South Asian community.

Chicagoland Realtors Reveal Smart Strategies to Boost Homeownership & Investment for South Asians

Top real estate professionals from the Chicagoland area recently gathered to discuss powerful strategies for homeownership and investment, with a strong focus on advocacy and industry innovation.

Illinois Enacts Law to Safeguard Privacy in Name Changes

Chicago, IL: In a significant move to protect individual privacy, Illinois has enacted House Bill 5164, sponsored by State Senator Ram Villivalam. Signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker on February 7, 2025, the legislation removes the mandate to publish name changes in local newspapers and reduces the state's residency requirement for applicants from six months to three months. The law will take effect on March 1, 2025.

Chicago Pediatrician Faces Charges After Starving Dog Found in Storage Bin

Chicago: A 38-year-old pediatrician, Anita Damodaran, appeared in court after her dog was found starving inside a plastic storage bin in her apartment’s bathtub.

Chicago Honors World Hindi Day 2025 with Cultural Fervor and Scholarly Tribute

Chicago: The Consulate General of India in Chicago, in collaboration with the Hindi Samanvay Samiti, hosted a dynamic and culturally rich event to mark World Hindi Day 2025. The event gathered Hindi scholars, educators, students, and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) dedicated to promoting the language across the Midwest.