After a year's gap, the India Association of Greater Boston brought back the Independence Day celebrations to the Hatch Shell.  The celebration was held on Sunday, Aug 17 2014.  After the singing of the American National Anthem by Noura Khan and the Indian National Anthem by Kumkum Dilwali, Shraddha Agarwal, Pravin Chaturvedi, Raghu Saranathan and Sudha Rao, Dr. Anil Saigal, President of IAGB presented a welcome address. 

“The Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi in his speech quoted a famous Vedic Mantra which when translated says - We walk together, we move together, we think together, we resolve together and together we take things forward. It gives me great honor and pleasure to re-iterate those words as I stand here to welcome the great New England community – Indian Americans, Indians, and other Americans who joined together to ensure that the IAGB Independence Day can be celebrated in this prestigious Hatch Shell location” said Anil Saigal. 

Bringing India Day back to the Hatch Shell was no small feat. The unfortunate marathon bombings had forced the authorities to increase security costs and that made the event the unaffordable last year. The IAGB team set out to garner resources and also work with the city and the state to help reduce the cost of the event. The community rallied and IAGB was able to raise the required resources to run the event successfully. Personal donations raffle monies, sponsorship and advertisement helped IAGB raise the required funds. Air India gave two free round trip tickets to India to be used as a raffle. Celtics donated tickets to their games, which were also raffled. 

Many members from the Boston City and Massachusetts State government graced the occasion. Sunila Thomas, Comissioner MCAD was the Chief Guest. Thanks to the connection established via the South Asian Arts Council, Boston city and Massachusetts State governments had proclamations recognizing Aug 17 as India Day.

Fortunately the rain Gods were kind and it did not rain at the event. The talent showcase featuring a wide range of acts from different parts of India were delightful. Several vendors showcased their products.  For attendees it turned out to be a fun afternoon where all Indian Americans immaterial of their ethnic, linguistic and religious affiliations could gather to have a good time while celebrating the 67th anniversary of India’s Independence. Kudos to the IAGB team!