ASARP Christmas Gala 2024: Creating the Ties through Cheer A Case of Festivals Christmas Gala ASARP event held on December 13th, 2024 at Westmont, IL. At the event, more than 50 members and guests came together for a wonderful event that signified the coming together of South Asian real estate professionals with sensibilities that are all positive. The session corresponded well with the ASARP’s notion of Collaboration; Networking & Professional Development, as the ambiance of warmth and togetherness was prevalent in all the attendees. A Night to Remember The highlight was held in a tastefully decorated hall chosen to create a festive and rather cheerful atmosphere. The audience was fully satisfied with the delicious meals, atmosphere, and efficient work of the organizers. Wonderful work by ASARP President Sunita Kakarlapudi, Past President Shirin Marvi, Nick Verma & Marsha Collins; it can only be said that they made this event come alive because they worked as a team, down to the last detail. In their daily practice, the professionals also use fulfilling words and engage in reflecting on the experiences they came across during their practice. The Gala was complemented by a passionate and thought-provoking speech by ASARP Chairman Pradeep B. Shukla who focuses on aspects such as persistence, giving, and unity. “Christmas is not only a time for celebration, but it also helps us remember that we all have a light inside us and one can always bring light to the darkness of others,” he said. Mr. Shukla also drew inspiration from Rabindranath Tagore, stating, “You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water,” and shared a timeless quote from Charles Dickens: “For it is good to be children sometimes and never better than at Christmas when it is whispered that the mighty maker of this world was a child Himself.” This caused the audience to be encouraged to have hope, be united, and have more focus on what they will be doing in the forthcoming year. Enjoyment, facts, and holiday mood There were so many entertaining programs throughout the evening with trivia being the most enjoyable and hilarious ride. Some of the questions asked were fun trivia like building up a random guess as to how much for the Home Alone house in Winnetka, IL, and getting to know cultural practices during the Christmas holidays. Stacey Mathis gave her last IDSA Games a true sendoff by bringing her creative genius and giant pep to the night, along with Niti Shah and thrilling rising professional, Ria Kakarlapudi. Matt Ingersol painted the night in postcard-worthy moments on his camera lens. Leaders recognize the existence of Leadership and Teamwork There was a special mention of Sunita Kakarlapudi for the great leadership she offered the SC while being our President while Shirin Marvi was our Past President who has continued to contribute to the growth of the SC. Nick Verma was also acknowledged as well as Marsha Collins for their commitment to making the event possible.   A Celebration of Unity & Excellence The event was not only an ordinary entertaining holiday party including several Holiday performances but also an array of professional achievements and the common spirit of ASARP. The attendees exited the evening with reestablished relationships and a desire and energy for the year to come. Moving to the five-year vision of ASARP, the roles and responsibilities of the association to advance the real estate professional’s interest, promote cooperation, and facilitate growth and prosperity will continue to be in focus. Here is to another year of the union, success, accomplishment, and festivity!