Residents of Shantiniketan in Tavares, Florida celebrated the Birthday of their adopted land and a great Nation: United States of America. Despite the COVID-19 virus and the hot weather, residents with all precautions against the virus as per CDC guidelines, unfurled the US flag alongside India’s tri-color flag to celebrate the 244th birthday of the United States.
Thus the Indian Americans from the largest democracy celebrated the birthday of the oldest democracy in the World. Included in the celebrations were hoisting of the flags; singing the National Anthems, pledging allegiance to the flag of the United States, followed by speeches and snacks. The entire program was coordinated by Geeta Chandran, Director for Cultural Activities at SN and Secretary of the Condo Owners Association. On this occasion residents spoke about the special celebration of the birthday of US.
Among the speakers who traced the history, sacrifices made and accomplishments made by the most powerful Nation in World were: Kedar Verma, Ram Chandran, Ashwin Pandya, Rasila Shah, Dick Sharad, Shantilal Goradia, and Girish Parikh. Rajeshwar Prasad, President of the Association in his brief remarks added that USA got Independence on July 2, 1776 but the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Congress on July 4, 1776.
Shantiniketan is the first Indian American Retirement complex in the United States of America operating since 2009. There are three Shantiniketans within 6 miles and when fully completed will have provision for about 300 condos. Already about condos have been completed and occupied
