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FIA Chicago celebrates India's Republic Day
The gathering also observed a moment of silence to honor the Bangladeshi Hindu victims of a targeted attack on religious minorities in Bangladesh under the Yunus government.
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Chicago Bureau - Sun, 08, Feb 2026
- 03:33 EST
- 20
FIA's Republic Day celebration in Chicago / FIA
The Indian diaspora in Chicago came together under the banner of the Federation of Indian Associations to celebrate India's 77th Republic Day with patriotic fervor. The event commemorated the adoption of India's national Constitution in 1950. India gained independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947.
The celebrations held at Haridham Mandir in Schaumburg, IL, a suburb northwest of downtown Chicago, reflected the Indian diaspora's enduring bond with India while living abroad, blending tradition with contemporary expressions of patriotism. The event was attended by the Consul General Somnath Ghosh of the Consulate General of India in Chicago and the Consul General Elad Strohmayer of the Consulate General of Israel Midwest.
The event highlighted cultural heritage and national pride, emphasizing democratic values and progress. A cultural program followed, spotlighting the 150th anniversary of "Vande Mataram," the iconic patriotic song. Community members from diverse backgrounds participated enthusiastically, creating a vibrant atmosphere of collective pride.
ALSO READ: FIA hosts Republic Day Gala in Chicago
The gathering also observed a moment of silence to honor the Bangladeshi Hindu victims of a targeted attack on religious minorities in Bangladesh under the Yunus government.
Speaking on the occasion, Consul General Ghosh highlighted India's progress in economic and entrepreneurial development, science, and technology. He also highlighted civilizational similarities between India and Israel and reminded the audience that India and Israel are the two beacons of democracy in an adverse neighborhood.
Consul General Strohmayer said that India and Israel are great friends. The civilizational bond between India and Israel spans millennia, rooted in shared values of resilience, pluralism, and intellectual pursuit.
Jewish communities have lived in India for over 2,000 years—arriving as early as the time of King Solomon—without ever facing systemic persecution, a rarity in Jewish history. Both nations trace their identities to ancient civilizations that survived conquests and diasporas, preserving distinct traditions that emphasize knowledge, ethics, and family. This deep mutual respect, free of historical animosity, forms the foundation of modern India-Israel ties, where democratic ideals, innovation, and cultural affinity continue to strengthen an enduring partnership.
Dr. Bharat Barai, the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman honoree, and Hemant Patel, FIA president, also spoke at the occasion.
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