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North The Indian Eye

AMERICANNewsline

18 SEPTEMBER 06, 2024

I N D I A D A Y P AR AD E
INDIA DAY PARADE

FIA Hosts its 42nd parade with

the theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’

to mark Independence Day

OUR BUREAU
New York, NY
ew York City came alive on
Sunday as the Federation of
NIndian Associations (FIA)
hosted the world’s largest annual In-
dia Day Parade, honoring India’s In-
dependence Day. This year marked
the 42nd celebration, drawing thou-
sands of participants and spectators
from the Indian-American communi-
ty to celebrate their rich culture. The
parade started at 12 PM local time
at 38th Street and Madison Avenue.
This year’s theme, “Vasudhaiva Ku-
tumbakam - The World is One Fam-
ily,” emphasizes social harmony and (L-R) President - Dr. Avinash Gupta, Mount Sinai - Dr. Samin Sharma, Zaheer Iqbal, Indian Actress - Sonakshi Sinha, Bhojpuri Indian Superstar -
cultural unity, fostering a sense of Manoj Tiwari, CGI-NY Binaya Pradhan, Holtech - Krishna Singh, Chairman - Ankur Vaidya
belonging that transcends boundaries.
The Consulate General of India,
led by CG Binaya S. Pradhan and bolizing a historic victory for all In-
dians. Other notable floats included
DCG Dr. Varun Jeph, provided in- the newly constructed Nalanda Uni-
valuable support for the event. CG versity, the world’s first residential
Pradhan expressed his pride, stating,
“It’s a moment to see the best of India university, founded in 427 CE and
led by BJANA, GANA depicting the
represented here. We celebrate our state of Gujarat in India, and many
cultural, historic, and educational
achievements today.” Our phenom- more.
The crowd was as loud and lively
enal Grand Marshal Sonakshi Sinha as the music played and colors worn
took the lead at the parade, with her as those in attendance celebrated 78
husband, Bollywood actor Zaheer years of India’s independence. It was
Iqbal by her side. The guests of hon- an inspiring display of inclusivity and
or included the talented Indian actor unity in diversity, as individuals from
Pankaj Tripathi and the charismatic diverse backgrounds, cultures, and
Bhojpuri celebrity and public figure religions came together to celebrate
Manoj Tiwari. their love and pride for India. Each
FIA President Dr. Avinash Manoj Tiwari stands tall on stage, his pride in being Indian resonating with every cheer from the crowd.
Gupta highlighted the importance person proudly represented their
unique Indian identity, transcend-
of the parade’s theme, “Vasudhaiva ing prejudices and celebrating their
Kutumbakam,” on India’s Indepen- country by waving Indian and Amer- New York to take part in the India here. All tableaus are very wonderful
dence Day. He stated, “On this day, ican flags in unison as one big family. Day Parade at the request of the In- here,’ he stated looking impressed.
we celebrate democracy, unity in di- Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji dian-American community. “People Following the parade, attendees
versity, and inclusiveness.” The pa- Maharaj, the respected spiritual are enthusiastic as they participate in gathered at the Cultural Stage, where
rade showcased vibrant floats repre- leader of Juna Akhada, also graced the India Day Parade. Different tab- a variety of performances showcased
senting India’s diverse communities, leaus featuring India’s divine culture, India’s rich and diverse traditions.
including a grand 18x9x8 foot replica the event, attracting a large crowd our Kalajayi, Mrityunjaya, and San- Manoj Tiwari, looking at the cheer-
of devotees seeking his blessings.
of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, sym- atan culture, and its values are seen Continued on next page... >>
He mentioned that he had come to
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