FIA Lights Empire State Building in Tri-Colors for India Day Celebration

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA NY-NJ-CT-NE) held its annual Empire State Building lighting ceremony on August 14, illuminating the iconic Manhattan landmark in saffron, white and green to commemorate India Day.

According to a statement from FIA, the ceremony marked the organization’s 44th annual India Day celebration under this year’s theme, “Harmony in Heritage.” The event also highlighted two milestones: India’s 80th year of independence and the United States’ 250th anniversary.

The ceremony opened with a cultural dance performance by the Kalashri School of Arts, choreographed by Bina Menon. FIA Joint Secretary Srujal Parikh hosted the event, welcoming guests to an evening highlighting the shared history and ties between “the world’s oldest and largest democracies.”

FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya reflected on the significance of commemorating the milestones of both countries.

“It bears double the joy to celebrate 250 years of America along with 80 years of India,” Vaidya said. “What an iconic start to the festivities, with the pride of our community, Mayor Sam Joshi, doing the honors.”

FIA President Sreekant Akkapalli also addressed the gathering.

Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, who participated at FIA’s invitation, highlighted the contributions of the Indian American community across the tri-state region and the United States, citing its impact in healthcare, business, technology and entertainment.

The ceremony also featured members of the cast of Neela Film Productions’ “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah,” or TMKOC, one of India’s longest-running television shows. Attendees included Dilip Joshi, Munmun Dutta, Mandar Chandwadkar, Sonalika Joshi, Balvinder Singh and Nitesh Bhaluni, among others.

Cast members joined other participants for the ceremonial lever pull that illuminated the Empire State Building in the colors of the Indian flag, marking the centerpiece of the evening’s celebration.

Following the lighting, guests received keepsakes from Empire State Building representatives and posed for photographs on the Grand Staircase. The celebration continued on the building’s observation decks.

Joshi concluded the evening by congratulating the honorees and thanking FIA for its continued efforts to bring the community together.

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