India Day Parade in New York Features Ram Mandir Float and Bollywood Stars
New York [US], August 19: A large number of people participated in the India Day Parade held in New York. The parade included a carnival float featuring the Ram Mandir, a grand pink sandstone temple built for Lord Ram in Ayodhya. The float, made of wood and decorated with flowers, was shipped from India.
Patriotic and religious songs played as people carried Indian flags, played dhols, and danced. The parade marched down Madison Avenue from East 38th Street to East 27th Street. In addition to the parade, there was a festival with cultural performances, over 45 booths, and food vendors.
The Federation of Indian Associations organized the event, featuring more than 40 floats, over 50 marching groups, and over 30 marching bands. Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha was the grand marshal, and guests of honor included Indian actor Pankaj Tripathi and Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari.
Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, who attended the parade, praised the event for showcasing India’s culture and values. However, a group representing Indian American Muslims withdrew its float, citing concerns over the inclusion of the Ram Mandir float.
Ankur Vaidya, Chairman of the Federation of Indian Associations, emphasized that the parade represents India’s diversity and promotes harmony and peace. He urged participants to remain calm, peaceful, and happy.
The India Day Parade in NYC has been an annual event for over four decades, celebrating India’s independence. This year marked the 42nd parade, the oldest and largest India Day parade in the US.
Doubts Revealed
India Day Parade -: The India Day Parade is a big celebration that happens in New York to honor India’s Independence Day. People come together to show their love for India with floats, music, and dances.
Ram Mandir -: The Ram Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Ram, a major deity in Hinduism. A float of the Ram Mandir means a decorated vehicle that looks like the temple.
Bollywood Stars -: Bollywood stars are famous actors and actresses from Bollywood, which is India’s film industry. They are like the movie stars you see in Indian films.
Federation of Indian Associations -: The Federation of Indian Associations is a group that organizes events for Indian people living in the United States. They help bring the community together.
Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj -: Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj is a respected spiritual leader in India. He guides people in their spiritual journeys and often speaks at important events.
Indian American Muslims -: Indian American Muslims are people who follow Islam and have roots in India but live in America. They are part of the diverse Indian community in the U.S.
Chairman Ankur Vaidya -: Ankur Vaidya is the leader of the Federation of Indian Associations. As Chairman, he helps organize events like the India Day Parade.
