New York, August 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Indian-American community in New York marked India’s 80th Independence Day with flag-hoisting ceremonies at Times Square, the Indian Mission to the United Nations and the Consulate General, as the city prepared for its annual India Day Parade.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul proclaimed August 15 as India Independence Day, recognising India’s democratic heritage and the economic, cultural and civic contributions of the Indian-American community to the state.
The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), organiser of Sunday’s parade, held a flag-hoisting ceremony at Times Square, one of New York’s most prominent landmarks.
India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, P. Harish, unfurled the Tricolour at the Indian Mission to the UN and read out President Droupadi Murmu’s Independence Day address to the nation.
At the Indian Consulate, Binaya Pradhan hoisted the national flag before a large gathering of community members. The ceremony was followed by a cultural programme showcasing India’s heritage.
The celebrations will culminate on Sunday with the 44th Annual India Day Parade along Madison Avenue. Organisers describe it as the world’s biggest India Day parade, attracting nearly 200,000 participants and spectators each year.
The FIA-organised parade will feature actors Pooja Hegde and Adivi Sesh as chief guests. Dozens of floats representing cultural organisations and businesses are expected to travel along Madison Avenue, while around 50 contingents of Indian-American groups will participate in the march, with several presenting dances and cultural performances.
State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar also joined Independence Day celebrations in Queens, where members of Indian communities representing different religions and linguistic backgrounds took part.
Rajkumar said she was proud to stand with the Indian-American community across New York State and to help “elevate our voices and help shape the future of New York.”
US Congressman Mike Lawler extended greetings to people in India and the Indian-American community across the US, celebrating India’s history and culture and the enduring friendship between India and the United States.
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