This year’s India Day Parade and Celebration was a grand success, leaving attendees with lasting memories of a day filled with cultural pride and unity
On August 11, the Indian Community Outreach (ICO) in Naperville, Illinois, marked India’s 78th Independence Day with a spectacular celebration, the India Day Parade & Day-long Celebration. Over the past decade, this event has grown to become the largest Indian American celebration in the United States, and this year’s turnout set a new record with an estimated 50,000 attendees.
The India Day Celebrations provided a vibrant platform for Indian Americans to showcase their talents in art, dance, music, and culture. The day-long festivities were a true reflection of a traditional Indian festival, complete with a food fair, cultural performances, and a parade. The highlight of the event was a two-hour, mile-long parade featuring beautifully decorated floats, community organizations, businesses, and public figures, all contributing to a dynamic and colorful display.
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Post-parade activities continued throughout the day at Rotary Hill, where a talent show featured performances by some of Chicagoland’s most talented dance groups
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The evening program began with the American and Indian national anthems, creating a serene and respectful atmosphere
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The concert that followed was headlined by Bollywood singer Krishna Beuraa, who captivated the audience with his melodious performances
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The show reached its peak with a breathtaking performance by Salim-Sulaiman, who delivered a series of Bollywood hits that left the audience in awe
Krishna Bansal, Chairman and President of the ICO, and the chief organizer of the event, emphasized that the parade and celebrations aim to engage Indian Americans in the broader fabric of American society. He expressed pride in how the event fosters awareness and respect for India while rekindling love and pride for the homeland among both first-generation Indian Americans and younger generations.
A significant attraction this year was the participation of the internationally renowned Bollywood music duo, Salim-Sulaiman, who served as the Grand Marshals. Waving both the Indian and US flags, they led the parade through Mill Street, accompanied by a jubilant crowd. The parade, featuring cultural representations from over 20 Indian states, was broadcast live by numerous media outlets, further amplifying its reach and impact. The inclusion of the US Military as part of the parade was a special highlight, symbolizing the shared values between the two nations.
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