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Requesting to standardize the celebration of Indian National Festivals
Hemant Patel writes to the Consul Generals of India.
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Hemant Patel - Fri, 16, May 2025
- 03:38 EDT
- 29
To,
The Honorable Consul Generals of India
On behalf of the Indian diaspora in the United States, we respectfully seek your support in standardizing the celebration of Indian national festivals across the U.S. and worldwide.
India continues to be a deep source of emotional and cultural pride for Non-Resident Indians. Under the inspiring global leadership of Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we feel a renewed sense of connection and responsibility to represent our heritage with dignity and unity. Celebrations of our national festivals—such as Republic Day and Independence Day—must reflect these values.
Our goal is to instill pride, education, and cultural respect in future generations through meaningful programming, including dignified parades, structured cultural events, and flag hoisting ceremonies. However, in recent years, the decorum and standards of these celebrations have been inconsistent. Multiple organizations often conduct fragmented programs, some of which undermine the spirit of these occasions.
Examples of concern include:
- A 30-year-old cricket match involving Mohammad Azharuddin dominated an Independence Day Gala.
- Dances to inappropriate Bollywood songs during Republic Day events.
- Romantic or vulgar song performances during national celebrations.
- A Bollywood actress wore an objectionable outfit featuring PM Modi’s image inappropriately placed.
- Bollywood celebrities featured as lead attractions in parades, overshadowing the patriotic message.
- An Indian map without Kashmir displayed during an event.
- Disrespectful postures during the Indian national anthem.
- Independence Day celebrated in nightclubs.
- A presentation titled “Is the Indian Constitution Secular or Not?” was prematurely halted.
We understand that formal regulation of private events may not be feasible. However, we believe that your participation can set a standard. Therefore, we humbly request that you encourage Indian associations to adhere to the following basic guidelines when organizing national events, especially when extending invitations to you:
- Strict adherence to Indian flag hoisting protocols.
- Chief guests/Grand Marshals should be individuals who embody national service—such as Padma awardees, retired defense personnel, or respected community leaders.
- Only patriotic songs and cultural presentations should be performed.
- We hope you will consider forwarding this appeal to the Ministry of Home Affairs or the Ministry of External Affairs to explore a globally standardized framework for celebrating Indian national events.
We sincerely thank you for your continued service and support.
With regards,
Hemant Patel
Concerned NRIs
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