Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, alongside scholars, business leaders, and community members, recently gathered at the Art Institute of Chicago for the US–India Legacy 250 Symposium. The program explored more than 250 years of deep historical, cultural, and economic connections between India and the United States.
Highlighting Indian-American Contributions and History:
Representing Illinois’ 8th Congressional District, Congressman Krishnamoorthi emphasized the profound historical influence of India and Indians on American development. Noting that over six million individuals of Indian origin now call America home, he urged the community to remain actively engaged in the civic life of the nation as it approaches its 250th anniversary.
The event served as a major highlight of the yearlong Legacy 250 initiative, which examines intellectual, scientific, economic, and people-to-people exchanges. The Chicago symposium featured prominent speakers from academia, business, and diplomacy including Professor Madhav Rajan, Professor James Vaughn, business thinker Rishad Tobaccowala, oncologist Dr. Bharat Barai, and Indian Consul General in Chicago Dr. M. Anand Prakash. A special message was also delivered by India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra.
Historical Connections and Swami Vivekananda’s Legacy:
Holding the symposium at the Art Institute provided a meaningful nod to history, marking 133 years since Swami Vivekananda’s landmark appearance at the World’s Parliament of Religions in September 1893. Swami Ishatmananda of the Vivekananda Vedanta Society reflected on this enduring spiritual and cultural legacy. Following panel discussions, guests visited the museum staircase display commemorating Vivekananda’s historic debut.
Founding convenors Kanchan and Haimanti Banerjee noted that the initiative stems from overlooked historical ties, ranging from trade during the American Revolution and the influence of Indian philosophy on thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson, to Mahatma Gandhi’s impact on the American Civil Rights Movement. During the event, the Banerjee authors officially released their new book, Threads of Freedom: India and America, 250 Years of Shared Destiny, alongside a special art exhibition and a documentary screening titled 250 Years in 15 Minutes.
