EID Milan 2016 by IMAGH, Merry-making, Celebrations and Endowment

IMAGH-4

Photos: Quaid Tinwala

Click here for Photo Collage

By Vanshika Vipin

HOUSTON: Staying put on its motto to foster harmony, strengthen relationships between religions and cultures, and enrich the community as a whole through various outreach programs, the Indian Muslim Association of Greater Houston (IMAGH) organised the 7th Annual EID Milan 2016, on Saturday, July 16, at the Marriott Westchase. Elaborate arrangements of foliage served as the perfect backdrop at this AAA rated 3-diamond hotel, where one of the most awaited events was about to take place.

As the event got cracking and the invitees started walking in, anxiety, curiosity and an unbridled excitement filled every inch of the surrounding air. The spectacular audience comprised of people from all walks of life and they had gathered there this evening to gain back the faith in humanity, especially after the heart wrenching events of Istanbul, Dallas and Nice that recently shook up the entire world.

IMAGH-5

Congressman Al Green, Chief Guest (Center), was felicitated at the Eid Milan 2016 by IMAGH, on Saturday July 16, at Marriott Westchase.

The evening was brought to life by the multi-talented radio broadcaster, Leena Shah, an RJ at Radio Dabang. For the bubbly and entertaining that she is, Leena managed the event at ease whilst ensuring the guests feel encompassed, energised and entertained.

The event began with reciting of the holy Tilawat Quran by Imam Wazir Ali, seeking His mercy and peace for the humankind. Soon after, Abeezar Tyebji had everyone up on their feet as a mark of respect for the US and Indian National Anthem. The sense of patriotism could be noticed with some visibly moist eyes.

IMAGH-1

From left: Latafath Hussain (President), Ismet Warsi (Secretary), Shaheen Vora (Jt. Secretary), Parvin Saiyed (Treasurer), and Karim Maknojia (Vice President).

The spirit-lifting Cultural Fashion Show was next in row. Perfectly tailored and stunning outfits captured attention of each and everyone in the hall. Gorgeous ladies complimented the attire as they walked down the ramp for Jasmeeta Singh of Jaz Creationz. Glitter, Gleam and Music dominated this outstanding show and sure did exhilarate the crowd.

Post the fashion show, amid applause, Dr. Fatima Mawji, Event Chair, walked up the stage to share the core beliefs, religious practices and teachings of Islam. She shared about the five pillars of Islam- declaration of faith, prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage. After Dr. Mawji’s mesmerizing words, Latafath Hussain, President of IMAGH, honored everyone with his presence. His very first sentence, “My name is Khan and I’m not a terrorist”, was impactful enough to have everyone’s attention. He mentioned that he was glad to have everyone there as a part of EID celebrations, and shared verses from Quran. He captivated the audience through his speech. He briefly shared IMAGH’s mission and how the organization had been fostering amity across cultures, communities and religions. He then mentioned about The South Asian Youth Alliance (SAYA), a new group under the umbrella of IMAGH. SAYA unites and engages the South Asian youth to connect to their heritage and outreach their community through various mediums like events, workshops, volunteering and social gatherings. An important point of mention here was that SAYA members never pay any fees as all their activities are supported by IMAGH. Later, in the evening Mohammed Khan, President SAYA, gave further details and requested the members to donate generously.

IMAGH-2

Dr. Yunus Langha, Co-Chair Organizing Committee.

Latafath Hussain, at the end of his speech, felt ecstatic mentioning about a plan they have for building a Senior’s Village. The brilliant concept of the Senior’s Village is to create a dependent and independent residential community for seniors from South Asia that will be secular, affordable and self-sustaining. The project will be for-profit for the developers but the basic living services will be provided by a non-profit model. There was a roar of applause as Hussain spoke about this remarkable move and introduced Asif Dakri, the President of Wallis Bank, a member of IMAGH, a great business leader, and a prominent Houstonian. Dakri shared the details of his vision and the plan for the Senior’s Village. The audience were overwhelmed to know how the entire community would shape up through various phases, to reach a secular, affordable and self sustaining model.

It was then time for some amusement and on platter was served the well written and finely directed short play by Fateh Ali Chatur, The Price of Miracle. The play that was based on true events was well received by the audience and it helped restoration of the popular belief that miracles can happen.

Post this Karun Sreerama, President of Indo American Political Action Committee came on the stage to welcome and invite the chief guest Congressman Al Green.

IMAGH-3

A short play, The Price of Miracle, written and directed by Fateh Ali Chatur.

The stage was then set for honoring some prestigious names, India House was honored with the Community Service Award and Col. Vipin Kumar, the Executive Director of India House accepted the award . In his speech, Col. Kumar highlighted some of the distinguished work that India House has been doing.

Club 65, another initiative of IMAGH, which was launched on April 2013, was presented by Paru McGuire, the President of Club 65. Club 65’s vision has been to engage and energize the seniors through social interaction, educational seminars, through channels like meetings, outdoor picnics and festive celebrations.

It was time for some fun and frolic. Raffle Drawing kept the guests busy and curious. A surprise element for the evening was the Best Dressed Male, Female and Couple gifts, which was judged by the Executive Team, Ismet Warsi, Shaheen Vora and Parvin Saiyed.

Finally it was time for the Vote of Thanks and Dr. Yunus Langha, Co-Chair Organizing Committee stepped up to thank everyone. Soon after, delectable and scrumptious meal by Nirvana Restaurant awaited the guests, and at the end everyone enjoyed the melodious songs of Mohd. Rafi, sung by Vishwakarma Raj. The evening was complimented by perfect lights and sound and the credit for the latter went to DJ Sage of Sage productions.

For further information, call Latafath Hussain at 713-269-6171 or email at latafath@imagh.org