Federation of Indian Associations host Empire State Building lighting, NY State celebrates at other landmarks
NEW YORK, August 15, 2025 – New York State’s most iconic landmarks were illuminated in the colorful saffron, white, and green colors of the Indian flag on Friday, August 15, 2025, to commemorate India’s 79th Independence Day.
The tribute spanned the entire state, with landmarks including Niagara Falls, One World Trade Center, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Grand Central Terminal’s Pershing Square Viaduct, and Albany International Airport Gateway joining in this unprecedented celebration of Indo-American friendship, a press release from FIA said.
The FIA’s lighting of Empire State Building was the centerpiece of this statewide celebration that honors both India’s independence and the thriving Indian- American community in New York, organizers said.
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The Independence Day celebration featured an Indian cultural dance program performed by the acclaimed Qala Creation Group. The ensemble “captivated” audiences with traditional performances showcasing India’s rich artistic heritage, bringing together classical and folk-dance traditions passed down through generations.
FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya emphasized the significance of the Empire State Building sponsorship: “For decades, the Empire State Building has served as a beacon of hope and achievement. To see it draped in the Indian tri-colors on Independence Day was profoundly moving and represented the aspirations of millions of Indian Americans who have made New York their home. This lighting ceremony embodied our community’s journey from India’s struggle for independence to our success in America.”
FIA President Saurin Parikh extended heartfelt wishes to the global Indian diaspora, expressing deep gratitude to the Empire State Building team for illuminating the iconic landmark. Reflecting on his personal journey,
President Parikh recalled learning about the Empire State Building as a young student and dreaming of seeing it one day. “This is more than just a celebration, it is a symbol of how far we’ve come as a community,” said President Parikh. “To see the Indian tri-color shine across one of the most recognized skylines in the world is a powerful reminder of our shared history, progress, and unity.”
Srujal Parikh, Board of Trustees member of the Federation of Indian Associations, delivered a heartfelt speech expressing gratitude to the Empire State Building and extending a warm welcome to all attendees, highlighting the significance of this historic moment and the strong partnership between the Indian-American community and New York’s iconic institutions.
Dr. Atul Rai, CEO of USA Cricket, marked the historic significance of the moment: “India got its independence in 1947, 78 years ago. On that historic night, while the world was asleep, India awoke to freedom. Today, 78 years later, as we step into the 79th year, we are celebrating this historic journey in the most iconic way by lighting up two of the world’s greatest symbols, the Empire State Building in the USA and India’s own monuments.”
Dr. Rai also announced CricMax’s partnership with Team Grassroot Cricket to bring cricket to America, launching with this historic celebration. “Cricket is the world’s second-largest sport, and this moment marks a historic step in bringing it closer to the American mainstream. This effort is not just about sport, but about creating opportunities, connecting communities, and pushing cricket to become a mainstream movement here.”
Grand Marshal Vijay Deverakonda began the Tri- color ceremony and led the commemorative proceedings.