The Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA)-New England, celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India at the Academy of Creative Arts in Burlington, Massachusetts, on the eve of the official Republica Day which falls annually on January 26.
The event honored India’s freedom fighters and the architects of the Constitution of the Republic of India who laid the foundation of the nation, a press release from FIA-New England said.
Addressing the gathering, FIA–New England President Abhishek Singh highlighted the significance of the occasion and the responsibility it carries for future generations.
“Republic Day marks the moment when India adopted its Constitution, empowering every citizen with freedom, equality, and justice. We must follow the path shown by our forefathers and protect the unity and integrity of our community,” Singh said.
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As part of the ceremony, attendees observed a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the freedom struggles of both India and the United States. The audience also sang the national anthems of both countries.
FIA Executive Vice President Sanjay Gokhale appealed to the community to take a pledge to work toward a world free from hunger, poverty, and inequality, strengthening bonds between communities while promoting peace and inclusion.
During the event, dignitaries and some attendees shared their thoughts on the significance of Republic Day. Community leaders Rakesh and Aditi Soni emphasized the strong parallels between the history of India and the United States. Both nations fought against colonialism and embraced democracy, secularism, and a constitutional republic framework, they noted.
Entrepreneur Devendra Patil noted that as the United States approaches its milestone of 250 years of independence in 2026, India continues advancing in its own journey of development, stability, and progress.
Mohan Nannapaneni (Founder, Team Aid), Java and Hetal Joshi (Promoters of education and creative arts), and Jayesh Patel (Entrepreneur) highlighted constitutional values such as freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, protection against exploitation, and the right to constitutional remedies, reaffirming commitment to these principles in both India and the United States.
FIA Executive Board Members Shova Sharma and Anand Sharma thanked all dignitaries and supporters, including Ravindra Zende, Vijay Agarwal (Businessman), Anil and Ranjani Saigal (Founders of Lokvani), Manisha Jain (Ekal Vidyalaya), and Manisha Kumar (Ekal Vidyalaya) for their guidance and continued support.