The India Association of Rhode Island celebrated the 70th Indian Independence Day on Sunday, August 14th 2016, at the South Lawn of the Rhode Island State House. It was a moment of pride and joy to see the Indian Flag hoisted upon the State House, which could be seen flapping away in the breeze even from a distance, serving a reminder of turmoil and challenges faced by the pioneers of the Indian Freedom movement.

Children and adults alike celebrated the event with great gusto and fanfare by participating in the various dance and singing programs, braving the record high temperatures of the season. The day witnessed a good turnout, with Congressman David Cicilline and State Representative Robert B. Lancia in attendance. While addressing the audience, Congressmen Cicilline, lauded the efforts of IARI in bringing together the highly diverse Indian community and stressed on the importance of strengthening Indo – American cultural and business ties. 

The day began with the National Day parade that ended at the State House, where the festivities began, first by the rendition of the American and Indian anthems, marking an auspicious start to the rest of the day. One could see the audience, swaying and singing along to the classical and contemporary music played by Din Check – New England’s one of a kind, Bollywood band, showcasing songs from various eras and genres. This was followed the dance segment of the event, where the audience watched mesmerized, various forms of classical dances, traditional folk dances and modern contemporary dance forms by several members of the Indian community and dance groups, truly demonstrating the real beauty, diversity and amalgamation of cultures of the Indian Nation. It was a real treat to watch young children enthusiastically participating in the fashion parade, smiling to the cameras and bowing to the audience. The evening of the program was brought to an end by the grand finale lively music played live by DJ Arish.

Any program will be incomplete without delectable food, and that was in abundance, with food stalls by various well-known Indian restaurants from the Rhode Island and Massachusetts area, serving a variety of Indian food and desserts. The day was also host to henna, jewelry, Indian clothes, yoga and wellness stalls as well as a kid’s stall, for the children to have a great and memorable time.

Overall, the day was a resounding success, with the IARI volunteers putting in their hours and efforts in order to bring about and seize the day. Through their energies and support, IARI will continue to organize and endorse various such events and programs, aimed to building a strengthening platform.