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Former Miss World Diana Hayden to lead Boston's India Day Parade

The helicopter display and the highly anticipated Ram Temple float will serve as the parade's highlights.

Former Miss World Diana Hayden. / Wikipedia

On Saturday, August 10, 2024, the Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England will host the third International India Day Parade at the historic Boston Harbor, near India Street. The location is deeply rooted in history as the birthplace of the United States' own fight for freedom, which subsequently inspired India's struggle for independence.

The event, celebrating the 78th anniversary of India’s independence, will feature a parade, that includes a Ram Temple float and multiple helicopters flying both the U.S. and Indian tricolor flags, serving as the showstoppers. Former Miss World , Diana Hayden, will serve as the Grand Marshal, of the parade.

Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, the Consul General of India in New York, will serve as the chief guest, alongside a distinguished lineup of special guests, including Grand Marshal Manoj Tiwari, a renowned actor, singer, and Member of Parliament, and Hollywood actress Neetu Chandra. Additional guests of honor include Arjuna Award recipient Ajay Reddy, esteemed community leader Ram Gupta, and Geoff Deihl.

With over 25 floats showcasing different elements of Indian heritage, the parade will highlight the country's rich cultural diversity. “The international float and the helicopter display, featuring both the U.S. and Indian flags, symbolize the deep-rooted cultural pride and the spirit of freedom shared by our two great nations,” said Abhishek Singh, president of FIA New England. “These showstoppers will be a tribute to the enduring bonds between India and the USA.”

The parade will commence at 11:00 a.m. (local time), followed by a flag hoisting ceremony, cultural performances, and a recognition ceremony honoring veterans, law enforcement officials, seniors, and children. 

“The main purpose of this celebration is to honor the freedom fighters who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure the freedom of both India and the United States,” said Sandeep Asija, a member of the FIA Board of Trustees. “It’s a tribute to the enduring spirit of liberty and the shared values between our nations.”

In addition to the parade, billboards across the Boston area are showcasing and extending the best wishes for Independence Day, adding to the city-wide celebration of this significant event.

 

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