The Stars & Stripes and the Indian Tricolor fluttered in the breeze all around at Boston Harbor’s Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park August 10, 2025, at the 4th International India Day Parade organized by the Foundation of Indian Americans-New England (FIA-NE), to celebrate the 79th Indian Independence Day which falls on August 15.
More than 20 countries participated in the parade, FIA-NE said in its press release. A cultural extravaganza followed, along the picturesque banks of the Charles River, a site chosen for its historic and symbolic importance in the freedom struggles of the two countries, organizers said.
The theme for this year, “United World, Shared Dream: Peace, Prosperity, and Progress” was decided upon after a roundtable discussion that featured diplomats, community leaders, and cultural ambassadors, FIA-NE said. Speakers reflected on the shared democratic values and aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous global community.
“The India Day Parade is not just about celebration – it is about honoring the shared struggles, values, and dreams that bind us together as a global family,” Abhishek Singh, president of FIA–New England, said.
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The celebration also honored more than 200 seniors for their outstanding community service. Scholarships were presented to children with support from the Parikh Foundation established by Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold which brings out News India Times among other weeklies. The event also recognized veterans and extraordinary women achievers with the Governor’s Special Citation.
This year’s parade was headlined by Bollywood star Jugal Hansraj – an acclaimed filmmaker, actor, and author – who served as the Grand Marshal.
The gathering of dignitaries included Subu Kota, chairman of The Boston Group who joined as the Chief Guest, alongside Monique Tú Nguyen, the special representative of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and Piyush Singh, from the Indian Consulate in New York. On August 8, the Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, spoke in a video message about the FIA-NE parade.
Following the Parade, on August 12, the New York Consulate posted on X @IndiainNewYork, “Brimming with colour, energy, and pride, the 4th International India Day Parade — organised by the Foundation of Indian-Americans in New England FIA- New England— brought together the Indian-American community, community leaders, and friends of India…” further adding, that Consular Singh had joined the festivities “where colourful floats, captivating cultural performances, and spirited patriotic displays showcased the community’s deep-rooted connection to India’s heritage and its vibrant contributions to America’s cultural mosaic.”
Guests of Honor at the Boston event included Padma Shri recipient Prof. S.P. Kothari (Former MIT Dean), Ram & Meetu Gupta, Sushil & Alka Tuli (Chairman, Leader Bank), Dilip Patel, chairman Jamson Group, Prof. Dr. Balram Singh (Community reformer), Rajendra Singh (Rajput Association of North America), community leader Neela Gandhi, and several other prominent leaders and philanthropists.
This year’s parade featured special floats and thematic tributes honoring the first U.S. President, George Washington, and iconic Indian freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. A special highlight was the 150th Birth Anniversary tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Iron Man of India.”
The Governor of Massachusetts, Maura Healey, issued a special proclamation declaring August 15th as India Day in the Commonwealth.
The cultural segment saw an impressive performance by the Amudha Sri Dance Group, led by Dance Guru Kalaimangai Anbalagan, featuring over 32 young dancers showcasing India’s rich classical traditions. Other highlights included Dhol Tasha performances, the Veterans Band, and colorful displays from diverse international groups, including the Nirankari Samaj.
Sanjay Kudrimoti, who took photos during the event, posted on Facebook, “Kudos to Abhishek Singh, Jyoti Singh, Manisha Kumar and all of FIA- New England executive team for a perfect execution of India Day parade and celebrations with pomp!”