The Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) – New England hosted its 4th International India Day Parade on August 10, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts, bringing together communities from across the globe to celebrate “freedom, unity, and shared heritage.”

The event, held against the backdrop of Boston Harbor, showcased cultural pride, community spirit, and the enduring bonds between India and the United States.

Bollywood actor, filmmaker, and author Jugal Hansraj served as the Grand Marshal. Joining him were prominent dignitaries including Subu Kota, Chairman of The Boston Group, who attended as Chief Guest; Monique Tú Nguyen, special representative of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu; and Piyush Singh, Consul for Press, Information & Culture at the Consulate General of India in New York.

Guests of Honor included Padma Shri awardee Prof. S.P. Kothari (Former MIT Dean), Shri Ram & Meetu Gupta, Sushil & Alka Tuli (Chairman, Leader Bank), Prof. Dr. Balram Singh (Community Reformer), Rajendra Singh (Senior RANA Leader), and Neela Gandhi, among other community leaders and philanthropists.

Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Hansraj told South Asian Herald, “It’s definitely a pleasure and honor to be invited by the Indian community, and FIA New England, to be the grand marshal of this event. It’s something that straddles both the countries.”

Drawing parallels between Boston’s revolutionary history and India’s independence movement, he added, “Boston itself has a very important history of its fight against colonialism, just as India has… So, I think this is an apt city to have such an event.”

Noting this was his first time as a Grand Marshal for an India Independence Day Parade, Hansraj called the experience “definitely memorable” and praised the “warm and enthusiastic welcome” from volunteers and attendees.

“My heartfelt congratulations to the Foundation of Indian-Americans in New England on organizing the 4th International India Day Parade at the iconic Boston Harbor. This celebration reflects the pride, unity, and vibrant spirit of the Indian-American community while further strengthening bonds between India and the United States,” said Piyush Singh told South Asian Herald. 

“The India Day Parade is not just about celebration – it is about honoring the shared struggles, values, and dreams that bind us together as a global family,” said President of FIA–New England, Abhishek Singh, emphasizing the deeper meaning of the event.

Tú Nguyen acknowledged the city’s diverse immigrant population, noting, “We have 200,000 immigrants in the city of Boston… the Indian community is the eighth largest immigrant community in the city,” and highlighting their contributions to culture, science, business, and community life.

This year’s parade featured thematic floats and tributes to historic leaders, including U.S. President George Washington, Indian freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, and a special commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Iron Man of India.”

The celebrations also included the presentation of a proclamation from Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, declaring August 15 as India Day in the Commonwealth. 

“August 15 marks the 78th anniversary of India’s independence from British colonial rule in 1947 a historic moment that laid the foundation for the world’s largest democracy. And whereas India has the largest diaspora in the world, and over 36 million people of Indian origin live in other countries, with over 5 million people of Indian origin living in the United States, this is all of you who contribute greatly to the social, economic and civic health of our nation and our community…” read the proclamation.

In a notable moment, Editor-in-Chief of South Asian Herald T. Vishnudatta Jayaraman received a special citation from Rhode Island Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos for his commitment to “ethical journalism and fostering community dialogue.” Actor Hansraj personally presented the citation from LG Matos and a memento from FIA-NE acknowledging the work of South Asian Herald. 

The day’s program honored more than 200 seniors for exceptional community service, awarded scholarships to children with support from the Sudhir Parikha Foundation, and recognized veterans and women achievers with the Governor’s Special Citation.

The cultural performances captivated audiences, with standout acts including the Amudhashri Dance Group led by Guru Kalaimangai Anbalagan, featuring 32 young dancers presenting India’s classical traditions. Other highlights included the rhythmic energy of Dhol Tasha performers, the Veterans Band, and vibrant showcases from international groups such as the Nirankari Samaj.

The event’s theme, “United World, Shared Dream: Peace, Prosperity, and Progress,” resonated during a roundtable discussion featuring diplomats, cultural ambassadors, and community leaders, who reflected on shared democratic values and aspirations for a more peaceful and prosperous global community.

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