MINEOLA, NY (TIP): The Curtain Raiser of the 15th India Day Parade USA 2026 was held at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive & Legislative Building before a packed audience of more than 250 attendees, reflecting the tremendous enthusiasm and support of the Indian American community.
The event officially launched preparations for the 15th India Day Parade USA, which will commemorate the 80th Anniversary of India’s Independence and celebrate the rich heritage, diversity, and contributions of the Indian American community.
The evening commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Pradeep Tandon, General Secretary, India Day Parade USA, who thanked the distinguished guests, community leaders, sponsors, media partners, and volunteers for their support and stated that the India Day Parade has become one of the region’s most significant celebrations of Indian heritage, bringing together people from all backgrounds to honor the values of freedom, unity, diversity, and community service. He also recognized the dedicated leadership of President Deepak Bansal and President Vimal Goyal for their tireless efforts over the past three years in making the parade bigger, stronger, and more impactful each year.
The event was graced by the presence of distinguished public officials and dignitaries, including Hon. Steven D. Rhoads, New York State Senator, 5th Senate District; Hon. Jennifer DeSena, Supervisor, Town of North Hempstead; Hon. Jake Blumencranz, Member of the New York State Assembly, 15th Assembly District; Hon. Elaine Phillips, Nassau County Comptroller; and Shri Tsewang Gyaltson, Consul (Community Affairs), Consulate General of India, New York. Their presence underscored the significance of the India Day Parade USA as one of Long Island’s premier multicultural celebrations and their continued support for the Indian American community.
President Vimal Goyal highlighted the significance of the India Day Parade as a celebration that unites people of all backgrounds in the spirit of friendship, inclusion, and service and called upon community organizations, businesses, and families to participate wholeheartedly and make the 15th India Day Parade USA the biggest and most successful parade in its history.
Founder Mr. Bobby Kalote reflected on the inspiring journey of the India Day Parade and expressed appreciation to all volunteers, sponsors, and community leaders whose dedication and hard work have transformed the parade into one of Long Island’s premier cultural celebrations.
President Mr. Deepak Bansal thanked the community for its continued support and emphasized that the India Day Parade has become a symbol of pride and identity for Indian Americans. He encouraged everyone to work together to preserve cultural traditions, engage younger generations, and showcase the beauty and diversity of India.
President Mr. Vimal Goyal paid special tribute to Mr. Venus Bhasin, stating, “I would like to recognize Mr. Venus Bhasin, who has not received the due appreciation and recognition he deserves in the past. He has been a great supporter of India Day Parade USA for several years, bringing numerous sponsors and helping raise substantial funds for the organization. He is truly a devoted son of Mother India.” The audience responded with a warm round of applause in appreciation of his longstanding service and dedication.
President Mr. Deepak Bansal emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals who have selflessly served the community and stated that India Day Parade USA is proud to honor community leaders whose contributions have strengthened and enriched the Indian American community.
Special recognition was also accorded to distinguished community leaders including Dr. Tarun Wasil, Mr. Shashi Malik, Mr. Dincil George of the Queens Parade, and Acharya Ji of Arya Samaj for their exemplary leadership, community service, and continued support of India Day Parade USA.
India Day Parade USA takes great pride in recognizing and honoring these exceptional individuals and organizations whose dedication, generosity, and commitment to community service have inspired others and strengthened the bonds of our vibrant Indian American community.
Honorees included Somendar Gautam, Rupal Patel, Venus Bhasin, Bina Sabapathy, Sach Law Firm, Gaurav Grover, Anamika Grover, Nilima Madan, Anil Bansal, Apna Bazaar, Ankit Gera, Gurwinder Singh, Philip L. Maltaghati.
The evening featured inspiring performances by talented young artists Vaishavi Randev and Arshdeep Kaur, showcasing the vibrancy of Indian culture. The patriotic spirit of the evening was elevated by singer Anil Dua, who rendered stirring patriotic songs. Acclaimed singer Khuda Baksh, a finalist of Indian Idol Season 9, further energized the audience with his melodious patriotic performances that had attendees singing along and dancing with great enthusiasm.
Guests enjoyed appetizers before the program and a delicious dinner following the event, providing an opportunity for fellowship and networking among community leaders, elected officials, sponsors, media representatives, and attendees.
The Curtain Raiser concluded on a high note with patriotic fervor, enthusiastic audience participation, and a renewed commitment from community members and organizations to make the 15th India Day Parade USA, to be held on Sunday, August 23, 2026, in Hicksville, New York, a grand and memorable celebration of India’s Independence and the enduring spirit of the Indian-American community.
(Based on a Press Release issued by Pradeep Tandon, General Secretary, India Day Parade USA. He can be reached at Phone: 718-564-3092 and Email: prprprus@gmail.com)
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