The Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) – New England celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India with pride and patriotism at the Academy of Creative Arts on January 24, 2026, in Burlington, Massachusetts, honoring India’s freedom fighters and the architects of the Constitution of the Republic of India who laid the foundation of the nation.

The celebration marked the historic day when India adopted its Constitution, granting fundamental rights to all citizens and formally becoming a Constitutional Republic, according to a statement from FIA New England.

Addressing the gathering, FIA–New England President Abhishek Singh underscored the importance of Republic Day and the responsibility it places on future generations.

“Republic Day marks the moment when India adopted its Constitution, empowering every citizen with freedom, equality, and justice. We must follow the path shown by our forefathers and protect the unity and integrity of our community,” Singh said.

As part of the ceremony, attendees observed a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the freedom struggles of both India and the United States. The audience also sang the national anthems, reflecting on enduring values of courage, service, and national unity.

FIA Executive Vice President Sanjay Gokhale called on the community to pledge its commitment to building a world free from hunger, poverty, and inequality, while strengthening bonds between communities and promoting peace and inclusion.

Dignitaries and community leaders shared reflections on the significance of Republic Day during the event. Community leaders Rakesh and Aditi Soni highlighted the strong parallels between the histories of India and the United States, noting that both nations emerged from struggles against colonialism and embraced democracy, secularism, and constitutional governance.

Entrepreneur Devendra Patil observed that as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary of independence in 2026, India continues to advance on its own path of development, stability, and progress.

Mohan Nannapaneni, founder of Team Aid, along with Java and Hetal Joshi, promoters of education and creative arts, and entrepreneur Jayesh Patel, emphasized key constitutional values including freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, protection against exploitation, and the right to constitutional remedies. They reaffirmed their commitment to upholding these principles in both India and the United States.

FIA Executive Board members Shova Sharma and Anand Sharma expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and supporters, including Ravindra Zende, Vijay Agarwal, Anil and Ranjani Saigal, Manisha Jain, and Manisha Kumar, for their guidance and continued support.

Through such celebrations, FIA New England continues to preserve cultural heritage while fostering civic responsibility, unity, and shared democratic values among Indian Americans across the region.

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