By Thirteen years after its inception in 2008, the National Indo-American Museum (NIAM), which builds bridges across generations and connects cultures through the diverse colorful stories of Indian Americans, marked a landmark moment with the inauguration of its Umang and Paragi Patel Center in Lombard, Illinois on October 15, 2021. Founding members, board members, major donors, supporters, prominent state officials, and the press gathered at the museum for a “sneak preview” evening of celebration prior to the museum’s official opening October 16.
The evening kicked off with a welcome address by President Deven Kane celebrating NIAM’s first physical building, an important milestone for a community organization. He thanked NIAM’s major donors, Dr. Umang and Paragi Patel, for their generous gift of the building. A longtime supporter of the museum, Umang spoke of the significance of the moment and NIAM’s journey in reaching this milestone.
Next, the Consul General of India, Chicago, Amit Kumar, joined by his wife, Surabhi Kumar, spoke about the value of NIAM’s physical presence. He struck a chord with listeners by remarking that, in a job that entails movement every few years, as a family they always make sure to create a “little India” and remain connected to their roots wherever they go.
Board member Beverly Kumar said, “We are here now standing on solid ground, and together we will immortalize the immigrant stories of Indian Americans.”
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