News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026) August 28, 2026 12 Community T he Federation of Indian Associations (FIA–Chi- cago), established in 1980 and one of the Mid- west’s longstanding Indian-American community organizations, marked a historic weekend of cel- ebrations August 15 and 16, 2026, to mark India’s 80th Independence Day and the 250th anniversary of American independence. A Tiranga Car Rally on August 15 was followed by a patriotic celebration on August 16. Organizers saw it as a “powerful tribute to two na- tions that occupy a special place in the hearts of Indian Americans: India, their Janmabhoomi — the land of their birth, civilization and cultural heritage — and the United States, their Karmabhoomi — the land of oppor- tunity, achievement and their adopted home.” The colorful Tiranga Car Rally filled the streets with the Indian tricolors of orange white and green, and the American Stars and Stripes adorning the vehicles. The air resonated with enthusiastic chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” “Vande Mataram,” “God Bless America,” and “Long Live America.” Cultural, religious, service and community organiza- tions participated, reflecting the diversity of Chicago- land’s Indian-American population. It also showed and FIA Chicago’s important role in the community, over the last more than 45 years of observing India’s Indepen- dence Day and Republic Day events, as well as chari- table activities and civic initiatives. On Sunday, August 16, some 200 community mem- bers, dignitaries, veterans, FIA leaders, families, youth and supporters gathered for the special program. The venue displayed the Indian and American flags and portraits honoring national heroes, and the speech by FIA Chicago (1980) President Hemant Patel dwelt on how freedom was a concept to be remembered, preserved and passed on the next generation; that the celebrations should go beyond entertainment and provide opportunities to educate younger generations about patriotism, sacrifice, national service and respon- sible citizenship. “Wishing you all a very Happy India Independence Day, and at the same time, we wish everyone in America a very happy 250th anniversary of American indepen- dence,” Patel told the community. “Freedom Is Not Free” was the overarching message of the day – that behind the independence enjoyed by citizens today are generations of courageous men and women who made extraordinary sacrifices in defense of their nations and democratic ideals; that independence carries an obligation to protect liberty, democracy and human dignity for future generations. The presence of veterans and distinguished guests gave this message added significance. Lt. Gen. K.J.S. Dhillon’s presence and the launch of his book, “Opera- tion Sindoor: The Untold Story of India’s Deep Strikes Inside Pakistan,” added to the moment. Chief Guest, outgoing Consul General of India Som- nath Ghosh addressed the gathering dwelling on the significance of the day and the shared democratic values that strengthen the growing partnership between India and the United States. He also praised the Indian-Ameri- can community for serving as a vital bridge between the two great nations and for its remarkable contributions to American society. Speakers highlighted India’s progress in education, technology, infrastructure, defense, innovation and eco- nomic growth, and its place on the global stage. The audience honored India’s national song,“Vande Mataram,” and adults and children presented other patriotic songs and cultural performances. The celebration simultaneously paid tribute to the United States during the historic 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. FIA trustees and executives, veterans, community leaders, elected and public officials, cultural represen- tatives and prominent members of Chicago’s diverse communities participated in the celebration. Among those recognized was former Congresswom- an of Illinois Melissa Bean, who is running for elections. She greeted the Indian-American community and praised the spirit of jointly commemorating the inde- pendence milestones of India and the United States. Those present recognized how the FIA Chicago (1980)’s celebration captured the historic connection between the two seminal events. N EWYORK — Indian American Muslims made a vibrant and visible showing at New York City’s India Day Parade as members and supporters of the Indian American Muslims of North America, or IAMNA, joined thousands of participants in celebrating India’s independence, heritage and cultural diversity. Men, women and children marched along the parade route waving Indian tricolor flags, wearing traditional attire and carrying placards honoring prominent Indian Muslim freedom fighters, leaders, scholars and national figures who contributed to India’s independence move- ment and nation-building. IAMNA’s colorful float carried a strong message of inclusion and patriotism, with a large display declaring, “Muslims Are an Integral Part of India.” The float also highlighted the theme, “Celebrating Our Past, Building Our Tomorrow,” reflecting the organization’s effort to recognize the contributions of Indian Muslims while encouraging younger generations to remain connected to their heritage. Participants carried portraits and placards featur- ing figures including Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Tipu Sultan, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Abdul Hafiz Mohamed Barakatullah, Rafi Ahmed Kidwai, Maulana Shaukat Ali, Ashfaqulla Khan and former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Another prominent message displayed during the parade was the patriotic line, “Saare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara,” reinforcing the group’s message of love for India and unity across religious and cultural backgrounds. The float was filled with participants waving Indian flags as it traveled through the streets of Manhattan, while IAMNA members walking alongside it interacted with spectators and proudly displayed symbols of both their Indian heritage and their lives as Indian Ameri- cans. IAMNA representatives said the participation was intended to demonstrate that patriotism transcends differences of faith and that Indian Muslims remain an important part of India’s history, culture and democratic fabric. IAMNA founder and chairman Ilayas Quraishi led the organization’s participation along with colleagues Ahmed Shakir and Mukbul Mansuri. The group has participated in the India Day Parade for several years as part of its effort to provide greater visibility to the Indian Muslim community within the broader Indian American diaspora. “It was an honor to lead the IAMNA float alongside my dedicated colleagues, Ahmed Shakir and Mukbul Mansuri,” Quraishi said. “Together, we proudly repre- sented Indian American Muslims, celebrated our heri- tage and expressed our deep love for our motherland.” He thanked community members, families and supporters who participated in the parade and helped organize the float. “Each year, our enthusiasm grows stronger as we work to make our participation more meaningful and impactful,” Quraishi said. The presence of families and younger participants was particularly significant for IAMNA, whose organiz- ers have emphasized the importance of helping second- and third-generation Indian Americans understand their cultural roots while embracing their identity in the United States. Throughout the parade, the organization empha- sized the spirit of “unity in diversity,” a principle reflect- ed in the different communities, languages, religions and traditions represented in the annual celebration. For IAMNA participants, the parade was not only an Independence Day celebration but also an opportunity to recognize the generations of Indians from different backgrounds who contributed to the country’s freedom struggle and development. Against the backdrop of Manhattan streets lined with spectators, Indian flags and cultural displays, IAMNA’s float delivered a simple message: Indian Muslims are proud of their roots, proud of their contributions and proud to celebrate India’s pluralistic heritage as part of the Indian American community.communities partici- pated in the celebration. Among those recognized was former Congresswom- an of Illinois Melissa Bean, who is running for elections. She greeted the Indian-American community and praised the spirit of jointly commemorating the inde- pendence milestones of India and the United States. Those present recognized how the FIA Chicago (1980)’s celebration captured the historic connection between the two seminal events. By Bhailal M. Patel FIA Chicago (1980) held two days of celebrations to observe India’s Independence Day and America’s 250th birthday, August 15 and 16, 2026. Indian American Muslims Celebrate Heritage, Patriotism at NYC India Day Parade FIA Chicago (1980) Marks India’s 80th Independence Day and America’s 250th Anniversary With Two Days Of Celebrations By a StaffWriter