New York: As New York prepares for the world’s biggest India Day Parade, the community celebrated the 80th anniversary of India’s freedom on Saturday with flag-hoisting at Times Square, the UN Mission and the Consulate.
State Governor Kathy Hochul officially proclaimed August 15 as India Independence Day, honouring India’s democratic heritage and recognising the economic, cultural and civic contributions of the Indian‑American community in New York.
The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), which is organising Sunday’s parade, held a flag‑hoisting celebration at Times Square, known as the crossroads of the world.
India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, P. Harish, hoisted the Tiranga at India’s UN Mission and read out President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the nation. At the Consulate, Binaya Pradhan raised the flag before a large gathering of the community, followed by a cultural programme showcasing India’s rich heritage.
The city’s major celebration is scheduled for Sunday, when the 44th Annual India Day Parade will take place on Madison Avenue. It is regarded as the world’s biggest parade, drawing nearly 200,000 participants and spectators each year.
Organised by the FIA, the parade will feature actors Pooja Hegde and Adivi Sesh as chief guests. Dozens of floats from cultural organisations and businesses will move along Madison Avenue, while about 50 contingents of Indian groups will march, some dancing and displaying elements of India’s diverse culture.
State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar joined celebrations in the Queens borough, where Indians from various religions and linguistic communities participated. Rajkumar said she was proud to stand with the Indian‑American community across New York State, “elevating our voices and helping shape the future of New York.”
Congressman Mike Lawler greeted “our friends in India and the Indian‑American community across the US,” saying: “Today, we celebrate India’s rich history, vibrant culture, and the enduring friendship between our two great nations.”
(IANS)
