New York Celebrates 78th Independence Day
Grand Event at Wall Street
On August 17, New York City celebrated the 78th Independence Day of the United States with a grand event at Wall Street. The celebration was organized by the Indian Cultural Association of North America and saw the presence of notable dignitaries including New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Indian Consulate General to New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan.
Mayor Eric Adams’ Speech
Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the significant contributions of Indian and Indian-origin professionals in various fields such as business, healthcare, and education. He stated, “This clearly exemplifies the strength of the Indian community. You bring pride not only to this city but to our entire nation.”
Referring to Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, Adams remarked, “This is a historic milestone, illustrating that in America, anything is possible. Let’s continue to support one another. After 78 years of independence, let’s remain interconnected as we advance.”
Kamala Harris’ Historic Milestone
Kamala Harris is the first black person of Indian heritage to serve as US Vice President and be the presidential nominee for a major political party. If she wins the upcoming polls, she will become the first woman and first person of Indian-origin to become the US President.
Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan’s Announcement
Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, announced that for the first time ever, schools in New York City would be closed for Diwali. He said, “Diwali will impart lessons of love, unity, and harmony among students, who are the leaders of tomorrow.”
Chauhan further explained that the decision to close schools on November 1 for Diwali this year “reflects a deep respect for the rich culture that fortifies our community; our diversity in language, religion, and traditions stands as a beacon of unity.”
Indian Consulate General Pradhan’s Remarks
Indian Consulate General Binaya Srikanta Pradhan emphasized the growing partnership between Indian-Americans. He stated, “When President Biden asserts that this is the most important partnership of the 21st century, we in India fully endorse that perspective. We believe we are at a crucial juncture where Indians and Americans are collaborating across every sector of human endeavour.”
Pradhan also highlighted India’s progress over the past 78 years, noting the significant contributions of Indian individuals to the nation-building of the United States.
India’s 78th Independence Day
India celebrated its 78th Independence Day, marking 77 years of freedom from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort in the national capital for the 11th consecutive time. The theme for this year’s Independence Day is ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047,’ aiming to transform India into a developed nation by 2047.
Doubts Revealed
New York -: New York is a big city in the United States, known for its tall buildings and famous places like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square.
78th Independence Day -: The 78th Independence Day means that the United States has been independent for 78 years. Independence Day is celebrated on July 4th every year.
Mayor Eric Adams -: Eric Adams is the person in charge of New York City, like a headmaster in a school but for the whole city.
Indian Consulate General Binaya Srikanta Pradhan -: Binaya Srikanta Pradhan is an important Indian official who helps Indian people in New York and works to make India and the United States friends.
Wall Street -: Wall Street is a famous street in New York City where many big financial companies and banks are located.
Indian Cultural Association of North America -: This is a group that helps Indian people in North America celebrate their culture and traditions.
Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan -: Dilip Chauhan is an important official in New York City who helps with community and cultural affairs.
Diwali -: Diwali is a big festival in India, also known as the Festival of Lights, where people light lamps and celebrate with sweets and fireworks.
Prime Minister Modi -: Narendra Modi is the leader of India, like a headmaster but for the whole country.
Red Fort -: The Red Fort is a famous historical building in Delhi, India, where the Prime Minister gives a speech on Independence Day.
