Four Decades of Memories: 1978 – Present
Take a journey through time with us! Organized decade by decade from 1978 to today, this photo collection captures nearly forty-eight years of unforgettable CCIW gatherings, celebrations, and friendships. Every decade brings its own unique energy, milestones, and memories, reflecting the rich history of our community and the strong bonds that continue to carry us into the future.
As you explore the history and dive into the iconic moments of the Chicagoland Club of Indian
Women, we want you to take a gander down memory lane – visit the memorable moments
by seeing our story through the lens of a camera.
Pictures from the 1st Decade: 1977 to 1987:
The Beginning
Three visionaries Prem Sharma… The formalization
Three women: Suman Mohlajee, Rani Jain and Prem Sharma started an
organization that allowed women to support each other as they raised young
families. The genesis of this was to create a gathering of women. From this idea
these visionaries, created a club where families met, shared values, celebrated
Indian cuisine with cooking classes, embraced their culture with classical
programs, and favorite holidays. Some key dignitaries graced the meetings of CIW
– such as Maharani Gayatri Devi.
Photo Link: 1st Decade: 1977 to 1987
Pictures from the 2nd Decade: 1988 to 1998:
The early gatherings
As these events unfolded, the membership grew and it was clear that the Indian
community needed this organization. The next ten years were spent putting more
structure around the yearly programs. Several events were formalized and the
Indian community gained visibility in Chicagoland through public participation at
India Independence Day parade . Some landmarks of this era were the meeting
with esteemed actor Shabana Azmi, the Indian Flag displayed at the Polo Club
and the picnic attended by families.
Photo Link: 2nd Decade: 1988 to 1998
Pictures from the 3rd Decade: 1999 to 2009:
Coming of age
The 90s saw the club evolve into an organization of renown, with a calendar of
well attended events WHAT WERE THE MAIN HIGHLIGHTS HERE? The beginning of
a Boat Trip , the Drury Lane theatre outing
Photo Link: 3rd Decade: 1999 to 2009
Pictures from the 4th Decade: 2010 to 2020:
Rocking Decade …harmony and growth
In the year of the Y2K the club had great membership, events were planned in
advance, Chicagoland eagerly awaited the famous Literary Slam and the annual
Halla Gulla. Renowned entertainers were invited to the functions and the
membership found emerging artists who had a venue to showcase their talents.
But the most iconic moment was when the board members met President
Obama – you don’t want to miss this picture !
Photo Link: 4th Decade: 2010 to 2020
Pictures from the 5th Decade: 2021 to Present:
2021- and beyond
This is the decade of some changing of the guards. As our esteemed founders and
visionaries continue to guide and coach the new genre of leaders have emerged
to lead the club to new heights. Some highlights are the superbly attended
literary slam, the well-known Indian authors and the entertainers.
Photo Link: 5th Decade: 2021 to Present