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Thousands attend SWADES 2026 fest in San Jose
AIA also announced Ganpati Boppa Morya celebrations in September and its annual Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka celebration in Pleasanton in October.
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Staff Reporter - Mon, 17, Aug 2026
- 10:34 EDT
- 60
SWADES 2026 fest / AIA
More than 25,000 people gathered in downtown San Jose on Aug. 15 to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day and the United States’ 250th Independence Day.
Hosted by the Association of Indo Americans (AIA) the day-long SWADES 2026 event featured a India Day Parade with more than 80 floats and participation from over 50 Indian-American organizations.
The celebration brought together families, cultural groups, elected officials, business leaders and community members from across the Bay Area.
Also read: New York India Day Parade, largest in the world, celebrates 'harmony in heritage’
Indian actress Taapsee Pannu served as the grand marshal, drawing enthusiastic crowds along the parade route. The event also featured an 80-foot India and U.S. Flag Walk, the Tiranga Walk, music and cultural performances highlighting India’s diverse traditions.
Among the dignitaries attending were Consul General of India Srikar Reddy, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, U.S. Rep. Sam Liccardo, Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen and California Assembly members Ash Kalra and Patrick Ahrens. More than 40 elected officials participated in the celebrations, according to AIA.
The event also emphasized youth participation, with more than 100 children taking part in classical and film dance performances. Art, chess and essay competitions were organized for children and families.
Festivities continued with a free Day and Night Mela featuring Indian food, shopping, entertainment and family activities. The evening concluded with “Vijay Bharat,” a cultural showcase featuring dances representing different Indian states and traditions.
AIA thanked participating organizations, volunteers, sponsors, performers, city partners and media organizations for supporting the event.
The organization announced that its upcoming programs include Ganpati Boppa Morya on Sept. 19 at Bishop Ranch in San Ramon and the Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka on Oct. 17 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton.
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