Written by: Albert Terc
Photos by: Albert Terc
Dubbed as the largest Indian Independence Day Celebration outside of India, the 40th annual parade down Madison was as colorful as it was energetic. Thousands of cheering fans lined the parade route on Madison Avenue between 38th and 25th streets to see a brilliant display of a diverse culture. Parade revelers were treated to a special surprise when one of India’s brightest entertainment stars, Annu Arjun, met with reigning Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu at the VIP reviewing stand on 28th street. Pre-parade activities were festive as marchers were getting ready for a fun-filled day. As usual, the mounted police signaled the start of the parade. Kicking off the parade is always an honor at any parade. This year the Swamibapa Pipe Band from Secaucus, NJ got action started with their regal uniforms and inspiring bagpipes.
A perennial favorite can be heard making their way down the parade route. The drummers and dancers of Jallosh got the crowd excited with their thunderous drum beat. They were so much fun, I included some additional footage of them. A newcomer to the parade provided additional drum power when the Shivshardul Percussion Group from Michigan performed with plenty of positive energy to keep the crowd enthralled. They were amazing and hope to see them for years to come.
India is home to a wide variety of natural splendors. It is also home to a wide variety of religions and spiritual beliefs and much of that was displayed on floats and marching groups. One of the many things I enjoy about this parade is the parade sponsors, FIANYNJCA, always bring awareness of social issues important to all of us. This year the emphasis was on the rapid loss of soil all throughout the planet. Without proper soil, there is no food. More groups displayed their banners and colorful floats throughout the day. As always, it was a successful parade that invited everyone to celebrate the love and culture that is India.
NYC Parade Life 