The Indian Independence Day parade, held on August 18, 2024, was a vibrant celebration of India’s 77th year of independence. Also known as the FOG India Day Parade, this annual event held in Fremont, CA(Silicon Valley) brings together thousands of Indian Americans and supporters from across the Bay Area, reflecting the rich cultural diversity and strong community ties in the region.
This parade, one of the largest of its kind in the United States, showcased a colorful array of floats, cultural performances, as well as traditional dances and music. Participants wore vibrant attire representing various states of India, creating a mosaic of the country’s diverse heritage. The event was organized by the Federation of Indo-Americans of Northern California (FIA) and featured prominent celebrities like Bollywood Superstar Manisha Koirala, Actor Prashant Gupta, famous singer Manhar Udash, Consul General of India Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, and many other community leaders, local politicians, and dignitaries who joined in the celebration.
For FOG’s Odisha chapter, this event was a special way to highlight the rich culture of Odisha and its temples. This year’s Odisha Float showcased a famous UNESCO World Heritage site: the Konark Sun Temple. Meticulously designed and constructed by the dedicated Odia volunteers, this year’s float was especially memorable for the Odia community, as the float won the prestigious “Best Design” award at the celebration. The famous Sun Temple, including the iconic Konark wheel, was in full display, winning the hearts of all, notably from special guest Manisha Koiralaji, who showered praise on the float.
Beyond the state-specific floats, this year’s parade also highlighted the achievements and contributions of Indian Americans in various fields. The theme, “Unity in Diversity,” emphasized the importance of inclusivity and the shared values between India and the United States.
The parade concluded with a grand finale of cultural performances, leaving attendees with a deep sense of pride and connection with their roots. Every year, the Indian Independence Day Parade in the Bay Area continues to be a significant annual event, fostering cultural exchange and strengthening the bond between the Indian diaspora and the wider American community.