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FIA champions unity, well-being at annual India Day Parade

Among the highlights was ISKCON NYC’s Jagannath Rath Yatra Chariot. 

India Day Parade / Photo Courtesy- FIA

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) hosted the 43rd Annual India Day Parade on Madison Avenue, drawing thousands of spectators for what has become the largest celebration of Indian culture in New York City.

This year’s theme, “Sarve Sukhina Bhavantu” (May All Be Happy and Prosperous), highlighted the values of unity and well-being. The parade featured 34 floats, 21 marching groups, and 20 cultural performances, with participants representing India’s regions through traditional attire, music, and dance.

Actors Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda served as grand marshals, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams was in attendance. Consul General of India in New York Binaya S. Pradhan attended as special guest. 

 

Actors Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda served as grand marshals / Photo Courtesy- FIA

Dignitaries at the parade included Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament; Shri Thanedar, U.S. Representative from Michigan’s 13th congressional district; Neena Singh, Mayor of Montgomery Township; and Sibu Nair, director of Asian American and Pacific Islander Affairs at the New York State Executive Chamber.

"Such a beautiful turnout, beautiful weather. We want to say keep doing the great things you're doing in the city," Mayor Adams remarked. 

Among the highlights was ISKCON NYC’s Jagannath Rath Yatra Chariot, which added a spiritual element to the festivities. Cricmax Connect’s float emphasized cricket’s growing popularity in the U.S., with children playing box cricket demonstrations.

ISKCON NYC’s Jagannath Rath Yatra Chariot / Photo Courtesy- FIA
Cricmax Connect’s float / Photo Courtesy- FIA

The event also included 38 cultural booths along the parade route and a cultural stage program afterward, featuring traditional and contemporary Indian performances. A community Paani Puri Contest drew enthusiastic participation.

FIA president Saurin Parikh said the event symbolized community unity. “Seeing families from across the tri-state area come together to celebrate our rich heritage fills me with immense pride. The success of this event reflects our collective commitment to preserving and sharing Indian culture with future generations."

Cultural performanes / Photo Courtesy- FIA
India Day Parade / Photo Courtesy- FIA

FIA chairman Ankur Vaidya added that the parade reflects “how beautifully our culture integrates with American values.” “We are proud to organize this platform that brings together diverse communities in celebration of our shared heritage,” Vaidya said. 

The parade received wide media coverage in the U.S. and India. Organizers said the annual celebration continues to strengthen cultural ties and highlight the Indian-American community’s role in U.S. society.

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