Amit Shah hails Boston India Day as Massachusetts issues India Day proclamation

Newyork,UPDATED: Aug 15, 2026 06:10 IST

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has praised diaspora organisation Foundation of Indian Americans New England for its commemoration of India's Independence Day in Boston, where Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has issued a special proclamation declaring August 15, 2026, as 'India Day' in the state.

The Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England, led by president Abhishek Singh, hosted the India Day Parade and Freedom Festival at historic Boston Harbor on August 9 for the fifth consecutive year. Singh said a major highlight of the celebrations for the 80th anniversary of India's Independence will be the illumination of Boston's Prudential Center in the colours of the Indian tricolour for the first time, “transforming the Boston skyline into a powerful symbol of the growing multilateral US-India partnership”.

In a personal message to the organisation dated July 30, Shah said the commemoration by FIA New England was a celebration of Indian culture, democratic values and the strong friendship between India and the US. He said it was also an important way to connect the Indian community living across the world with its cultural heritage. Shah said India's cultural heritage, democratic traditions and the ideal of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' continue to send a message of unity, peace and harmony to the world.

In his Hindi message, Shah said the Indian community living abroad was enhancing India's stature through its dedication, talent and values, while also strengthening cultural, economic and social ties between the two countries. He said such initiatives play an important role in connecting young people with Indian heritage, culture and national values. Shah added that India today is building a new identity on the global stage through its rich cultural heritage, democratic values and global engagement, and described the diaspora as an ambassador of India's cultural identity as well as a strong representative of its economic progress, innovation, investment and global standing.

On Friday, Singh said the celebration received a “significant boost” from Shah's special message. He also thanked Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu for recognising the contributions of the Indian-American community in the Boston area and for issuing an official proclamation declaring August 15, 2026, as India Day in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the fifth consecutive year. The August 9 parade was flagged off by Consul General of India in Boston Raghuram S. Leading the procession as 'Grand Marshals' were Colonel Inder Preet Singh, Yudh Seva Medal (Veteran), and US Navy Intelligence Specialist Maggie Lehman, who was recognised for her dedicated service and commitment to the nation.

According to the organisation, the parade showcased the cultural diversity of the Indian-American community through colourful floats representing India's heritage and the shared values of the US and India. It also featured tableaux and a cultural programme, with participation from community organisations, veterans, first responders and thousands of people from across New England. Among the highlights were an American Veterans' band and a Marathi 'Dhol-Tasha' band.

Singh said one of the most meaningful parts of the parade was its route through historic India Street, which recalls Boston's early maritime trade links with India. “The historic Boston Harbor location carries special significance with the story of the Boston Tea Party, an event that became a defining moment in America's struggle for independence. The India Day celebration highlighted how trade, people, ideas, and history have helped connect the two nations across centuries,” he said.

The Freedom Festival brought together Indian-Americans from across New England, along with elected officials, diplomats, veterans, community leaders and other diaspora members, to celebrate India's independence and the “enduring bonds” between the world's largest and oldest democracies. Together, the parade, festival and official proclamation marked the fifth straight year of India Day recognition in Massachusetts.

With PTI Inputs

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