Page 19 - The Indian EYE 090624

NORTH AMERICAN Newsline SEPTEMBER 06, 2024 | The Indian Eye 19

Pankaj Tripathi brings the spotlight to life, striking a pose that captures the heart of the celebration.

Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, a spiritual leader, blesses the crowd.

ing crowds, said, “Itna pyar dekhkar year, FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya
mujhe yakeen hai ki America mai stated, “Our mantra is our vibrant
bhi Bharat basata hai (Seeing so community and thriving diaspora,
much love, I am convinced that India who are proud, inclusive, diverse,
resides in America too) “ and, most importantly, united. May
Sonakshi Sinha expressed her the United States and our mother-
gratitude for representing the nation, land, India, reach new heights of suc-
sharing her excitement as her father, cess.”
Shatrughan Sinha, had served as This mega undertaking was made
Grand Marshal in 1985. All celebri- possible through the generous sup-
ties warmly engaged and entertained port of partners, including Holtech,
the audience, bringing their unique Mount Sinai, The Consulate Gen-
talents to the stage. eral of India-NY, State Bank of In- Sonakshi and Zaheer Iqbal greet the crowd on the Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam float.
Pankaj Tripathi was visibly emo- dia, RWJ Barnabas, ICICI, Simplify
tional upon seeing the Baba Ambed- TARA, Bombino, Andaaz, Landeed,
kar float, expressing his heartfelt Dunkin, Times Group, Bansal Foun-
gratitude: “The sheer amount of love dation, Siddhivinayak Temple-USA,
and support from the diaspora here BJANA, GANA, AAPI, MOCAAPI,
in the United States is truly over- and ESB. Media outlets such as TV
whelming. Your presence makes us Asia, Parikh Worldwide Media, New
all proud.’” India Abroad, South Asian Times,
The festival featured a vibrant and many others played a crucial
stage for cultural performances, role in elevating this landmark event.
where artists presented both tra- The festivities concluded with
ditional and contemporary Indian a grand Independence Gala held at
music and dance. The performanc- the National Museum of the Amer-
es beautifully epitomized the theme ican Indians that brought together
of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the over 450 members of the Indian
world is one family. Each dance told a community and esteemed guests. At- Young Indian-Americans showcase their cultural heritage through vibrant dance performancess
unique story, harmonizing the grace tendees enjoyed a diverse menu pro-
of Bharatnatyam and Kathak with vided by Andaaz Restaurant, located
the energetic beats of Bhangra and in Franklin Park, NJ, which offered
the joyful movements of Garba. This a delectable array of traditional In-
fusion created a breathtaking expe- dian dishes. Manan Saxena, owner
rience, celebrating unity in diversity. of Andaaz, also took the stage to
With over 45 booths and food stalls, discuss the banquet menu and its sig-
attendees enjoyed a sensory feast of nificance in supporting this initiative.
Indian cuisine and crafts. From spicy The parade left a lasting impres-
street food to handcrafted goods, the sion of the vibrant spirit and unity
festival was a lively celebration of In- of the Indian diaspora in New York
dian culture in all its forms. City, celebrating not just a day, but
The India Day Parade 2024 was a a shared heritage that continues to
resounding success, offering a joyful thrive. FIA is grateful for the heart-
and immersive experience of Indian felt turnout and all those who attend-
culture to New Yorkers and visitors ed, participated, and volunteered to
alike. When asked about the man- make this iconic celebration a mem- Crowds dance and sing along to the rhythm of Indian music
tra behind the parade’s success each orable one.

www.TheIndianEYE.com