Community Community Voices Voices
LetusintroduceyoutoSarita,Gautam,Nadia,Vaishali,Shanza, Ghousia,Kripa,Akhil,Srivani,Shuchi,Abha,andSunita!Theseare yourneighborsandfellowAurorans.Gettoknowthemthrough ournewestinstallationofCommunityVoices,whichshowcases storiesfromourSouthAsiancommunity.
SouthAsiaisasubregionofAsia,consistingoftheIndo-Gangetic PlainandpeninsularIndia Itincludesthecountriesof Bangladesh,Bhutan,India,Pakistan,Nepal,andSriLanka; AfghanistanandtheMaldivesareoftenconsideredpartofSouth Asiaaswell.
Nearly5.4millionSouthAsiansliveintheUnitedStates.The communityisfarfromhomogeneous;SouthAsiansarenotonly diverseintermsofnationalorigin,butalsobyvirtueof possessingavarietyofethnic,religious,andlinguistic characteristics
CommunityVoicesisaninitiativetoprovidespaceforcommunity memberstosharetheirindividualstories Themissionof CommunityVoicesistofosterconnections,cultivateempathy, andnurtureasenseofbelongingatthelibrary.Wecenter CommunityVoicesexhibitsaroundparticularheritagesor identitiesthataremeaningfulforourcommunity.
South Asian Heritage South Asian Heritage
Tellusaboutyourself.
I love reading books, practicing yoga, wearing sarees, and of course shopping for handbags and shoes. I am one of your neighbors who lives close to Eola and Liberty. My connection with Aurora started nine years back when I decided to buy a house and move close to my dearest friend. This is a close-knit neighborhood, so I was able to make a lot of friends while I was dropping my kid at school, walking
around in the neighborhood or attending gatherings. I am a full-time software engineer, and a year and a half ago, I also became a licensed financial professional who advises on estate planning, basic family protections, and retirement solutions.
Whatisasourceofpride foryouinyour heritage/identity?
My family, who taught me to be independent, and yet stood by me when I fell apart. I was raised in a middle class family without any gender bias. Both my parents gave me freedom to choose the course of my life while embedding strong cultural values in me. They taught me to be like a coconut: strong on the outside to face challenges in life, and yet soft inside to be kind and considerate to others. They taught me how to be the hero of my story and a role model for my daughter.
Whatdoyouwishourgreatercommunityknew aboutyourheritage/identity?
Our culture is known for a lot of festivals and celebrations. The festivals’ main purpose is strengthening family ties, tasting the happiness in giving, and respecting and thanking Mother Nature, the five elements, and all the life on this planet. There are 51 festivals in India, 17 of which are nationally celebrated. I am sure most of you are aware of Diwali and Holi, so today I am going to bring two lesserknown celebrations to your attention (but any two are good):
1. Rakha Bandhan: When a sister thanks her brother for being her protector. This is to strengthen the ties between brothers and sisters.
2. Pongal, also known as harvest festival: This is to thank Mother Nature for giving a good yield. This festival is also about giving; a lot of people share their surplus harvest with the poor.
Tellusaboutyourself.
I came to the US in 1990 as a student at Augustana College. I lived in Tennessee and Minnesota before moving to Aurora in 2008 and have been volunteering in our community I was a founding member of Aurora‘s Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board, known for its annual Diwali Festival of Lights I started the Swami Vivekananda
Scholarship Fund and served on Aurora’s Planning & Zoning Commission I enjoy the outdoors and have a passion for motorcycles As Chair of the Naperville Township Democrats, I work with people of all political viewpoints to make a difference in our community.
Whatisasourceofpridefor youinyourheritage/identity?
I take great pride in the rich tradition of storytelling in Indian culture The art of weaving intricate narratives through epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana reflects a deep appreciation for wisdom, creativity, morality and truth I take pride in the contributions of Indians in human history from 4,500 years ago in the
fields of astronomy, architecture, philosophy, science, and mathematics (such as the concept of zero) to modern day as business leaders, especially in the technology field
Whatdoyouwishourgreatercommunityknew aboutyourheritage/identity?
I wish the greater community understood the diversity and depth of Indian heritage, which spans many languages, traditions, and religions. Embracing this diversity can lead to a deeper appreciation and respect for the nuances of Indian identity, fostering greater inclusivity and understanding Hinduism’s caste system is misunderstood and exploited in the western world I wish people would spend time understanding
“Snatam Dharma”, the “Eternal Law” of Truthfulness, Compassion, Austerity, Cleanliness, Charity and Spiritual Education Namaste!
AURORA PbliLibyDitt
N a d i a K a n h a i
I raised my family on Aurora’s east side, living here for 30+ years, volunteering for school activities, church, political campaigns, and advocating for peace and justice, racial justice, and immigration education and awareness. I’m currently Co-President of the Aurora Area League of Women Voters; past Acting Chair of the City’s Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board; served as the site coordinator for Justice For Our Neighbors (JFON), a free, Tellusaboutyourself. high-quality legal immigration clinic in Aurora; and cofounded the Aurora Times webzine I was born in Grenada, grew up in Wisconsin, and settled in Aurora I’m a proposal writer, community advocate, and nature lover
Whatisasourceofprideforyouinyour heritage/identity? enhanced it by adapting to their new land and adopting new identities mixed with the African diaspora and others
My South Asian heritage is both rich in Eastern history and tradition and a unique blend of Western culture derived from hard work and a new start in the Caribbean The South Asian diaspora did not lose their identity in the Caribbean, but
My family is from Trinidad and Tobago, land of doubles, steel pan, Soca, and Carnival
Whatdoyouwishour greatercommunity knewaboutyour heritage/identity?
Many South Asians don’t understand the depth and unique heritage of the diaspora For example, I am Indo-Caribbean My ancestors migrated to the West Indies (Caribbean) following the abolition of slavery by Europe The plantation owners realized they still needed workers for the sugarcane fields and cocoa plantations, so they brought indentured servants from India to labor long hours in the fields Thus, I now claim a vibrant and rich heritage that is both Indian and Caribbean
Tellusaboutyourself.
I was born and raised in India I moved to this country because my husband was on a work visa here in the United States After briefly living in upstate New York and Detroit, we moved to Chicago Aurora has been my home since 2004 I came to the United States on a dependent visa and hence couldn’t work. So rather than sitting at home, I decided to volunteer my time at various
non-profit organizations, including Indian temples/churches I also enrolled myself in a dual degree program at UIC. I graduated with a 4 5/5 0 GPA and obtained my MBA in International Studies and MS in Management Information Systems Due to my involvement in various clubs and activities, I was also inducted into their Activities Honorary Society, a privilege only 15 students receive every year
Just before I graduated from UIC, I obtained my work permit, which allowed me to work in corporate America without any restrictions. I started my career at CNA with their project management team Since then, I have moved within the company and worked with various teams. I am also part of their Asian American Employee Resource Group The main motto of this group is to address the challenges faced by Asian Americans at work and to build cultural awareness with staff
Whatisasourceofpridefor youinyourheritage/identity?
I am a trained dancer in Indian Classical dance form Back in India, I finished my graduation in Bharatnatyam style of dance When I came to the United States, I brought my dance costumes, ghunghroos (bells) and my dance jewelry with me, with the hope that I might get an opportunity to perform. After being part of a few dance dramas in Detroit and the Chicagoland area, I was looking for
a more structured and consistent format I enrolled myself with Tarana School of Dance and Music in Aurora. The school teaches Kathak style of classical dance, which is one of the seven Indian Classical Dance forms I joined as a student, and now I am an assistant teacher in the same school After learning the art for almost 10 years, I became the first adult graduate student of this dance school to host a solo dance graduation stage ceremony called
“Rangmanch Visharad” Today, I impart the same knowledge to our upcoming generations. In addition to the theoretical knowledge, we merge the practical aspect to showcase its various implications It is my small attempt to retain the rich Indian cultural heritage within me and to pass it along to the next generation Today, my daughter also learns Kathak at the same dance school, and as my guru tells me to “Dream Big”, I wish that one day she will carry forward our legacy
AURORA PbliLibyDitit
Tellusaboutyourself.
I am a junior at Metea Valley High School and enjoy doing many activities inside and outside of school. I have lived in Aurora for eight years and am quite active in the community. I enjoy public speaking and am on my school's Speech team. I play the violin and enjoy listening to a variety of different music genres. In my free time, I like to read and find importance in educating myself. Photography is a great passion of mine, and I take tons of pictures.
Whatisasourceofprideforyouinyour heritage/identity?
I'm proud of how resilient and strong the women in my Pakistani community are. Despite challenges, they balance tradition with ambition, pursuing education, careers, and family life with grace. The many women in my life have taught me to embrace my roots while pushing boundaries. I admire how we come together during tough times, supporting each other like a big family. It's empowering to be part of such a vibrant culture.
Whatdoyouwishourgreatercommunityknew aboutyourheritage/identity?
I wish people knew how diverse and vibrant Pakistani culture is. It's not just about what the media shows youfrom our vibrant holidays to our values, we are so unique. Our food, music, and traditions are full of life, and we take pride in our rich history. Most importantly, I want people to know that we're a community that values family, education, and kindness, and we're always ready to share our culture with others.
Tellusaboutyourself.
I am Ghousia Wajid, and my journey began in Hyderabad, India, before bringing me to the U S in 1987 Since settling in Illinois, I've proudly called Aurora/Naperville home for the past 25 years, where I live with my husband, two children, and two beloved cats
Throughout my life, I’ve embraced the roles of a working mom, businesswoman,
and committed neighbor, but my true passion lies in community service With over 20 years of experience across industries such as banking, retail, and consulting, I’ve dedicated myself to nurturing and strengthening our local community. I firmly believe in the importance of giving back, and I actively volunteer with numerous non-profit organizations in Aurora/Naperville Together, we can build a brighter future, fostering connections and support for all our neighbors.
Whatisasourceofpride foryouinyour heritage/identity?
As a proud Hyderabadi immigrant, I take immense pride in our rich heritage Our beautiful languages, vibrant cultural traditions, and deep commitment to education are
cornerstones of my identity Speaking Urdu at home keeps me closely connected to my roots, while our cherished traditions, such as celebrating Eid and savoring Hyderabadi cuisine, allow me to share the beauty of my culture with others. The strong emphasis on education within our community has not only inspired my personal journey but also motivated me to contribute meaningfully to society
This legacy of knowledge and tradition has been passed down through generations, evident in my children’s achievements, all of whom hold Master’s degrees Celebrating our heritage and its values enriches my life and fuels my commitment to honor and uplift our community
Whatdoyouwishourgreater communityknewaboutyour heritage/identity?
As a Muslim Hyderabadi from India, I am passionate about sharing the richness of our heritage with the community Our cultural identity is a vibrant mosaic of diversity, steeped in history and tradition Hyderabad beautifully embodies the blend of Islamic and Indian cultures, evident in our language, cuisine, and festivals. What I hope people recognize is that our identity is deeply rooted in values of hospitality and respect We celebrate the diverse tapestry of our community by embracing all languages, religions, and backgrounds. By fostering understanding and connection, we can create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and included, enriching our shared experience together.
G a n a p a t h i
Tellusaboutyourself.
Art is my passion. I see art in almost anything I see Preserving ancient art forms and tribal/folk art is important to me Numerous folk art forms prevail around the world which I would like to preserve and teach to future generations. I have been an Aurora resident for the past 20
years I grew up in India and migrated to the US after my marriage. I am an IT professional who spends her free time and weekends teaching commissioning and exhibiting art!
Whatisasourceof prideforyouinyour heritage/identity?
Art, music, and dance are all intertwined as part of the cultural heritage I am so proud of from India There is music, dance, or art for every occasion Homes and temples are adorned with art to present stories of epics or
nature as a visual tool. I come from a culture where family is most important In our culture, generations of families live in the same house, and it is passed on from one generation to another.
Whatdoyouwishour greatercommunity knewaboutyour heritage/identity?
India/Bharat has a very diverse, colorful heritage. There are 18 official languages; each one has its own script and tongue This ancient country has existed for thousands of decades and preserves its culture even with so much diversity All fellow countrymen are treated as brothers and sisters Traditional art forms are carried on from ancient times even in the most urban settings of India It is a very colorful country with tons of food varieties to try
Tellusaboutyourself.
I'm Akhil Avasarala, a recent graduate from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a degree in Neuroscience, aiming to become an orthodontist My love for South Indian classical music, expressed through both vocal performances and playing the mridangam, is a core aspect of my identity. From a young age, the importance of service has been ingrained in me, shaping my mission to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Whether it's through my professional career or my personal passions, I'm dedicated to positively impacting the world and enriching the lives of those around me
Whatisasourceofprideforyouinyour heritage/identity?
A source of pride in my heritage is my deep connection to South Indian classical music. Music has been a defining theme throughout my life, shaping my identity from a young age Every day I practice or learn something new, I feel a profound sense of pride in being a musician. It’s not just an art form to me; it’s a vital part of who I am, reflecting the rich cultural heritage I cherish deeply
Whatdoyouwishour greatercommunityknew aboutyour heritage/identity?
I wish our greater community understood the profound emotional depth and cultural richness of South Indian classical music. It’s not just music; it’s a language of the soul that evokes deep feelings and tells timeless stories For me, it’s a source of peace and connection, linking me to my heritage and to generations before me This music has the power to transcend barriers, bringing people together through its intricate rhythms and expressive melodies, fostering unity and understanding
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Communit y VOICES
Tellusaboutyourself.
My name is Srivani Vokkarane, and I have been a resident of Aurora since 2005. We moved from Chicago because Aurora offers a variety of amenities: places of worship, top-rated schools, shopping malls, Blackberry Farm, Philips Park Zoo, and more Everything is conveniently located, and the historic downtown adds to the city's charm We have frequently used the park district’s programs for my
kids’ summer activities and also availed ourselves of the year-round fitness center My children have spent substantial time at the Eola and Santori public libraries Aurora’s cultural diversity provides a safe and welcoming environment I am originally from Bangalore,
and I moved to the U S after marriage As an Indian classical dancer, I have had the honor of performing at the Santori Library’s opening ceremony
Whatisasourceofprideforyouin yourheritage/identity?
As a Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dancer, I
take immense pride in using this classical dance form to celebrate and share my heritage Indian classical dance, characterized by its elegant movements, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling, is a powerful medium for sharing the richness of Indian culture Dance has been my passion, and I strive to spread this to the community by performing at various events. Classical performing arts connects me to my roots, allowing me to preserve age-old traditions while introducing them to diverse audiences Through each performance, I contribute to fostering cultural appreciation and pride in my Indian American identity
Whatdoyouwishourgreatercommunityknew aboutyourheritage/identity?
I wish for the Aurora community to know more about the richness of Indian cuisine and performing arts Food and art provide an excellent gateway to understanding a culture. Our food is a blend of diverse spices, flavors, and regional specialties that reflect India’s cultural diversity Indian classical dance forms like Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam are not just performances but expressions of storytelling and tradition passed down through generations which depict mythology, religion, regional diversity, social traditions and festivals By exploring our food and art, one can truly appreciate the depth and beauty of Indian culture, fostering understanding and connection
AURORA PbliLibyDitit
a s t a v a
Tellusaboutyourself.
I was born and brought up in Delhi and moved to Chicago in 2020 just before COVID hit I really like Aurora, and I have made a lot of good friends within the community and outside the community I feel blessed for all the people I know here I work with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), and I want to work towards destigmatizing the conversation around mental health and wellness in South Asian communities, because I feel there is a lack of mental health information and a prevalence of cultural or language barriers It prevents people in South Asian communities from accessing much-needed support I love spending time with my kids, who are 8 and 15, and I absolutely love going for long road trips in the United States
Whatisasourceofprideforyouinyour heritage/identity?
I am proud of Indian culture and heritage - how people are grounded and helpful As there are so many Indians living in Aurora, it can be clearly seen how religious and social they are I appreciate the family bonding culture and how kids in our families are extremely respectful and welcoming to their grandparents.
Whatdoyouwishour greatercommunityknew aboutyour heritage/identity?
I believe there are many small festivals that people are unaware of, as they are not from the same South Asian community They may have a prejudice about those festivals, which is totally understandable; however, if they get to know our culture and rituals, I feel there will be a better understanding.
b h a S u d , P T , D P T
Tellusaboutyourself.
My name is Abha, and I am a physical therapist, mother of two, and wife of one My favorite hobby is collecting experiences by trying new things and going on adventures with my kids I also LOVE reading and aim to pass on that love to my kids, so we are at the library often! I am from St Louis originally, moved to Aurora for my husband's job, and have loved learning about this city and all the wonderful things it offers I am currently trying to launch my own company called Mobility and Beyond to encourage healthy lifestyles as we age
Whatdoyouwishour greatercommunity knewaboutyour heritage/identity?
As a culture, we value family, education, and grit We work hard and are willing to put in time and effort to reach our goals We also believe in God, in Karma, and helping each other We also love teaching others about our culture, so please, come ask. You can't know what you don't know, and we would love to share a meal with you!
Whatisasourceof prideforyouinyour heritage/identity?
I am proud to be IndianAmerican One of my favorite things about our culture is our love of a good party. We genuinely enjoy bonding with the community over good food and music, feeding our human needs both literally and figuratively Whether we are celebrating a life, a wedding, or just a regular Saturday, we do it with an open heart
Tellusaboutyourself.
My name is Sunita Patel (Pandrangi). I’m an Asian American. My brother Shankar was born with a chromosomal abnormality. Growing up in a smaller town in Michigan with immigrant parents and a brother with a disability impacted me deeply. My parents' struggle along with my experiences has shaped who I am today.
Today, I’m a Registered Nurse and passionate learner, and I describe myself as a “philomath”. My work throughout my career has broadened my desire to help people. I have a wide spectrum of personal interests, as a community activist, lover of Indian classical dance and music, and women’s mental well-being. Living in this area has been extremely fulfilling to connect with this amazing community.
Whatisasourceofprideforyouinyour heritage/identity?
I’m proud of my heritage. My experiences have shaped who I am today. I was brought up in a town that, at the time, had only five Indian families. This unique experience provided me an amazing opportunity to explore my cultural heritage in a dynamic way. I was afforded opportunities to perform as a classically trained dancer and travel. I am very proud of our family in terms of our diversity. We have had the richness of many cultures blended into our family which has given our family a multicultural appreciation.
Whatdoyouwishourgreatercommunityknew aboutyourheritage/identity?
My heritage is a blend of cultures from the United States to countries such as Venezuela and England, along with my
work with the disability community This broad experience has afforded me the opportunity to easily relate to all types of people
