The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY-NJ-CT-NE) launched its 43rd India Day Parade with announcements highlighting cricket’s potential in America and the involvement of top Bollywood stars.
The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA-NY-NJ-CT-NE) recently kick-started the countdown to its 43rd India Day Parade with an event held at the Indian Consulate in New York. The curtain-raiser began with a tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and the Ahmedabad plane crash.
The event was marked by ambitious announcements that set the stage for the upcoming parade, including the revelation of who would lead this year’s celebration, scheduled for August 14. Indian film icons Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, affectionately known as India’s “National Crush,” will serve as Co-Grand Marshals. They greeted the audience via a pre-recorded video message in multiple languages—Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and English—culminating with the phrase “Jai Hind!”
Consul General of India in New York, Binaya S. Pradhan, hailed the FIA’s lasting impact on the Indian-American community. “For half a century, the Federation of Indian Associations has been a force-multiplier for India’s image in America,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for FIA to copyright its signature events for potential replication globally. Deputy Consul General Vishal Jayesh Harsh also lauded FIA’s innovative spirit, remembering last year’s Chandrayaan-3 and Ram Mandir floats.
Cricket’s Bold Entry into America
In a gesture signaling a major shift in American cultural dynamics, Vinay Bhimjiani, CEO and founder of Cricmax Connect, announced that his company would be the title sponsor for this year’s Indian Independence celebrations. Bhimjiani’s vision is to integrate cricket deeply into American culture within the next decade. “Major League Cricket is only in its third season and already boasts investments from giants like Microsoft and the IPL franchises KKR and CSK,” he said. He announced a July 14 exhibition match at the L.A. Coliseum as a preview of cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympics.
During the parade on August 14, attendees can experience an interactive cricket session through a mini-pitch set up on Madison Avenue. Cricmax’s new app will offer real-time stats and coaching tips, further enhancing this immersive cricket experience.
USA Cricket CEO Dr. Atul Rai joined Bhimjiani on stage, highlighting their partnership as “nation-building through sport.” He urged U.S. cities to adapt baseball diamonds for cricket use, observing that cricket is already the world’s second-most popular game and expressing a desire to elevate its status in the U.S.
FIA President Saurin Parikh introduced the parade’s central theme, “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah”—A Global Initiative for Universal Well-being. “This is a healing message in turbulent times,” he explained, as a poster adorned with mandalas and peace symbols was unveiled.
In a move to promote inclusivity, ethnic associations are invited to participate in the parade without any fee, a first in the event’s history. “This parade isn’t pay-to-play; it’s pride-to-participate,” Parikh emphasized.
Chairman Ankur Vaidya paid homage to the late Chairman Emeritus Ramesh Patel, reinforcing the message that the event belongs to the community. Vaidya outlined new collaborations, while mentioning a post-parade gala at Cipriani Wall Street as part of these efforts.
The FIA Executive Committee provided updates on the parade’s extensive scale. Immediate Past President Dr. Avinash Gupta encouraged subscriptions to the Diaspora Bi-Weekly newsletter. Joint Treasurer Haresh Shah confirmed that the Empire State Building would be lit in India’s tricolor on August 15 alongside a flag-hoisting at Times Square. Joint Secretary Mahesh Dubal noted the event’s growing inclusivity with participation from various global Indian communities.
Vice President of FIA, Deepak Goel, identified the participation of Guyanese, Mauritian, and Réunion Island groups, highlighting India’s global identity. Executive VP Smita Miki Patel revealed plans for a series of youth performances themed around wellness, while Priti Ray Patel, another Vice President, previewed a culturally rich post-parade gala.
Manan Saxena, the Gala Convenor, spoke of merging traditional and modern elements in the gala, which promises expansive, Instagram-worthy culinary displays. Amit Verma, Country Head of State Bank of India (USA), reflected on the bank’s long-standing relationship with FIA since its formation in 1970.
With the integration of cricket and the confirmed presence of Bollywood stars, FIA envisions the 43rd India Day Parade as a notable cultural and sporting event. Madison Avenue is set to resonate with the spirit of India through vibrant displays of tricolor flags, dances, costumes, and music.
Source: Original article
