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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline AUGUST 28, 2026 | The Indian Eye 32

IACFNJ Celebrates India’s Independence

Day with Patriotic Cultural Program

OUR BUREAU
South Brunswick, NJ

he Indo-American Cultural
Foundation of Central New
TJersey (IACFNJ) celebrated
India’s Independence Day with a vi-
brant and patriotic cultural program
at the beautiful Shree Swaminarayan
Temple, located at 329 Culver Road in
South Brunswick, New Jersey. More
than 100 members of the local com-
munity, including elected officials,
community leaders, families, seniors,
and young participants, gathered to
honor India’s rich heritage, remember
the sacrifices of its freedom fighters,
and celebrate the enduring friendship,
diversity, and cultural contributions of
the Indian-American community.
The celebration was hosted by
the Shree Swaminarayan Temple in The presentation portrayed the cour-
its beautiful outdoor gazebo, provid- age, sacrifice, determination, and
ing a warm and welcoming setting for patriotism of legendary heroes and
the community gathering. The temple freedom fighters, including Chhatra-
generously provided light refresh- pati Shivaji Maharaj and Rani Laksh-
ments for all attendees, while Patel mibai. The moving performance re-
Brothers of North Brunswick spon- minded the audience of the struggles
sored sweets for everyone, adding a that shaped India’s journey toward
special touch of sweetness and com- independence and emphasized the
munity spirit to the occasion. IACFNJ responsibility of every generation to
expressed its sincere appreciation to preserve the values of freedom, unity,
the temple leadership, Patel Brothers sacrifice, and national pride.
of North Brunswick, volunteers, per- The celebration was honored by
formers, families, and all those whose the presence of several distinguished
support and participation helped make elected officials and community lead-
the celebration a memorable success. ers, including South Brunswick Mayor taries. The entire gathering then stood demonstrating that India’s rich his-
The program opened on a spiri- Charlie Carley, Deputy Mayor Ken together to recite Jana Gana Mana, tory, traditions, cultural values, and
tual and auspicious note with Ganesh Bierman, Councilwoman Archana India’s National Anthem, followed spirit of patriotism are being passed
Vandana, seeking the blessings of Grover, North Brunswick Council- by the Star-Spangled Banner, the Na- on to the next generation of Indian
Lord Ganesha for a successful and man Rajesh Mehta, School Board tional Anthem of the United States. Americans.
meaningful celebration. The audi- Members Manpreet Singh and Sonali The moment beautifully reflected the For more than two decades,
ence was then treated to an impres- Sinha, and New Jersey’s 12th Congres- community’s deep pride in its Indian IACFNJ has played an important role
sive presentation of Indian classical sional District candidate for the U.S. heritage while embracing the values, in bringing the community togeth-
dance, showcasing the beauty, grace, House of Representatives, Dr. Adam opportunities, responsibilities, and er while preserving and promoting
discipline, and rich traditions of In- Hamaway. The dignitaries extended diversity of its adopted homeland, the India’s culture, customs, traditions,
dia’s performing arts. The cultural their warm Independence Day wishes United States of America. and heritage. The organization also
program also featured instrumental to the Indian-American community The celebration demonstrated strives to promote harmony, com-
performances and patriotic songs, cre- and congratulated IACFNJ for orga- the true meaning of unity in diversity, munity engagement, and cultural
ating an atmosphere filled with pride, nizing the celebration and for its more bringing together participants from diversity throughout Central Jersey.
enthusiasm, and celebration. than two decades of dedicated com- young children and students to senior Events such as the Independence Day
One of the major highlights of munity service and commitment to members of the community. Through celebration provide an important op-
the program was a powerful dance promoting Indian culture, traditions, music, dance, storytelling, patriotism, portunity for younger generations to
drama combined with storytelling, ti- heritage, and diversity throughout and cultural expression, the event understand their roots, appreciate the
tled “Sangharsh Se Swatantrata Tak.” Central Jersey. created an opportunity for genera- sacrifices made by those who fought
Through music, narration, dance, and A particularly proud and emo- tions to connect with one another and for India’s freedom, and proudly cel-
dramatic performances, young artists tional moment of the celebration celebrate their shared heritage. The ebrate their Indian heritage while re-
brought to life inspiring stories from came when the Indian national flag enthusiasm and talent of the young maining active, engaged, and contrib-
India’s long journey toward freedom. was hoisted by the distinguished digni- performers were especially inspiring, uting members of American society.

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