The Indian community of Long Island came together to celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day on August 16, 2025, in an event organized by Navika Capital Group and Blue Sky Hospitality Solutions at the Marriott Long Island in New York.

The occasion received official recognition from New York State, with Governor Kathy Hochul issuing a proclamation declaring August 15 as India Independence Day in NYS, presented by Varinder Bhalla to Naveen Shah.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman also honored community leaders with a citation recognizing their impactful contributions. Recipients included Naveen Shah, Neha Bhansali, Madhu Pareek, Garry Sikka, and Harry Singh Bolla.

Over 1,000 attendees, including local leaders and distinguished guests, joined the celebration. Notable attendees included Blakeman, and Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, India.

The program began with the American and Indian national anthems, reflecting the strong bond and mutual respect between the two nations.

In his address, Blakeman highlighted the significant contributions of Indian-American residents in business, technology, and civic life. He referenced Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nassau County, wished India a happy Independence Day, and formally declared the holiday across Nassau County, according to a statement from Navika Capital Group and Blue Sky Hospitality Solutions.

Sandhu, who traveled from India for the event, expressed admiration for the Indian-American community, saying he was “stunned” by their enthusiasm and patriotism and praised their efforts to preserve Indian traditions abroad.

Community leader Harry Singh Bolla emphasized the importance of unity, stating, “Our efforts will be meaningful only when we put our differences aside, represent India as one country, one people, one person equals the whole community.”

Organizers reflected on the significance of the celebration. CEO Naveen Shah remarked, “I wanted to celebrate the birthday of India, our soil, our nation – this celebration shows the strength of our community, our culture, and our unity.” 

Haridas Kotahwala, Chairman, added, “It is our honor to celebrate India’s Independence Day with such pride. Including Janmashtami made the occasion even more special, reminding us of our national heritage and spiritual traditions.”

The evening featured a vibrant cultural program that went beyond music and dance, presenting a theatrical storytelling of India’s independence struggle. Performances included songs, narration, and enactments highlighting the sacrifices of freedom fighters, revolts against colonial rule, and India’s ultimate triumph, leaving the audience deeply moved. The Nassau County Band added to the celebration with a parade around the Marriott, infusing the evening with energy and patriotism.

The event opened with a powerful Sanskrit invocation led by Neha Bhansali, followed by a soulful performance of patriotic songs by Budh Prakash, renowned for international satsangs. The Independence Day proclamation was read by Varinder Bhalla, while Dr. Raj Bhayani and Madhu Pareek co-hosted the program with professionalism and grace.

Alongside Independence Day, the community also celebrated Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, with a special cake-cutting ceremony. Attendees whose birthdays coincided with the day were invited to join, adding a personal and heartfelt touch. A bhajan session further enhanced the festive atmosphere before lively music and dance concluded the evening.

Guests enjoyed a diverse Indian culinary spread, representing flavors from the North, South, East, and West of India. Dignitaries and performers from both India and the U.S. were formally recognized for their contributions, reinforcing the sense of shared pride and community.

As the celebration concluded, all attendees received prasadam in the form of sweet boxes for Janmashtami, generously sponsored by Dr. Deepak Nandi.

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