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Retired General N.K. Dhir to lead Chicago India Independence Day parade
The event is part of celebrations being held by Indian-American communities across the United States to mark India’s Independence Day.
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Staff Reporter - Fri, 21, Aug 2026
- 18:50 EDT
- 47
Retired Indian Major General N.K. Dhir / MEPSC
Retired Indian Major General N.K. Dhir will serve as the grand marshal of the FIA-Chicago (since 1980) India Independence Day parade on Aug. 23, becoming the first high-ranking military officer to receive the honor in the event’s history.
The parade will be held along Devon Avenue, a major commercial and cultural hub for Chicago’s Indian and broader South Asian communities. The procession will begin at 10:30 a.m. from 2358 West Devon Avenue.
Spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur will attend as the special spiritual guest, joining retired military officials, community leaders and other dignitaries for the celebration.
“For the first time in FIA history, we are honored to have a high-ranking military officer as Grand Marshal, joined by distinguished retired military officials who dedicated their lives to protecting our freedom. We are equally honored to welcome Devkinandan Thakur Ji as our Special Spiritual Guest,” FIA-Chicago president Hemant Patel said in the announcement.
Also read: CG Srinivasa raises tricolor at new Indian Consulate in LA
The program will feature cultural performances, including Garba and Bhangra, reflecting India’s regional diversity. Indian-American community organizations, nonprofits and businesses have been invited to participate in the parade under their respective banners.
The selection of Dhir as grand marshal places the contribution and service of India’s armed forces at the center of this year’s Independence Day celebrations. He is expected to be accompanied by other retired military officials during the procession.
The event is part of celebrations being held by Indian-American communities across the United States to mark India’s Independence Day. Diaspora organizations traditionally commemorate the occasion through flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programs, parades and community gatherings.
Organizers have arranged free parking at Warren Park, located at 6601 North Western Avenue, along with free bus transportation for registered participants.
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