A Day Of Celebration
Billed as the largest Independence Day celebration outside of India, the 37th annual parade made its way down the parade route on Madison Ave. between 36th and 25th Sts. Thousands had gathered to see one of the most colorful parades of the year celebrating the 71st year of Indian independence. This celebration is held in many parts of the US but the one in NYC always draws the largest crowds and the more popular celebrities. Parade sponsors, Federation of Indian Association (FIA-NYNJCT), invited Telegu actor and producer, Rana Dagubati and actress Tamannah Bhatia, both famous for their roles in the popular film Baahubali: The Beginning. They were well received by the large crowd as they took their place by the VIP review stand on 27th St. Another special treat were the all-female Air India Lady Pilots and crew that became famous for being the first all-female pilots and crew to circle the globe. They received one the loudest applause from the crowd.
Film Stars Rana Daggubati and Tamannah
Air India Lady Pilots and Crew
Jai Bharat Dancers Getting Ready
As usual, the mounted police signaled the start of the parade. This year NYC Mayor DeBlasio made a well prepared speech about the contributions of the Indian American community to the city. Soon after the fun started when an annual favorite group, Jai Bharat, marched their way down the parade route. Their enthusiastic drummers got the crowd worked up for a fun-filled day. Soon after them, another drum group that keeps growing every year arrived. Jallosh really had fun with their lively music and dancing. India Idol finalists including Khuda Baksh appeared on a float. Other floats from the Star India Plus had displayed dancers moving to some popular songs.
Blessings Of All Kinds
Jamming on Madison Ave.
India is as diverse and spiritual as any land in the world. With many religions, languages, and cultures on display, there still some important issues that were expressed. The Rally For Rivers group had a large group with a vital message to save the rivers from drying up due to global warming and farming issues. They can be contacted at RallyforRivers.org. Other returning groups were the World Yoga Community and the Jains of America group. Closing out the parade was the Christian group with their Biblical messages. All in all it was a fun parade to witness and a proud day for the Indian American community.
NYC Parade Life 