4 weeks ago
Last Updated: August 19, 2024, 09:08 IST
New York, United States of America (USA)
The parade, organised by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), also included over 40 floats. (Screengrab)
The India Day Parade in New York featured a grand Ram Mandir float and lively celebrations with patriotic music, cultural performances, and over 40 floats
Thousands of people participated in the India Day Parade held in New York City on August 18, celebrating India’s independence with vibrant displays of culture and heritage.
The parade featured a prominent float depicting Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir, consecrated in January this year. The float, measuring 18 feet long, 9 feet wide, and 8 feet high, was crafted primarily in India and flown in by air cargo, news agency ANI reported.
It was adorned with flowers and showcased the architectural beauty of the temple. The float drew attention as it moved down Madison Avenue, accompanied by patriotic and religious songs, while participants waved Indian flags, danced, and played traditional dhol drums.
The parade, organised by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), also included over 40 floats, more than 50 marching groups, and 30 marching bands, along with Bollywood guests Sonakshi Sinha and Pankaj Tripathi. The event featured a festival atmosphere with a stage for cultural performances and numerous food vendors.
However, the inclusion of the Ram Mandir float sparked controversy. A group representing Indian American Muslims withdrew their float from the parade, citing concerns that the Ram Mandir float promotes anti-Muslim sentiment. In response to the backlash, the FIA defended the float as a celebration of a significant Hindu landmark, emphasising the parade’s representation of India’s diverse cultures.
Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj, who attended the event, expressed pride in the cultural showcases. “I have come to New York to participate in the India Day Parade at the invitation of the Indian-American community. People are enthusiastic as they participate in the India Day Parade. Different tableaus featuring India’s divine culture, our Kalajayi, Mrityunjaya, and Sanatan culture, and its values are seen here. All tableaus are very wonderful here,” he told ANI.
