Theme: “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah” – May All Be Happy

NEW YORK (TIP): The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) will host the 43rd Annual India Day Parade in New York City on Sunday, August 17, 2025, starting at noon from Madison Avenue at 38th Street.

In an interview with The Indian Panorama, FIA President Saurin Parikh—originally from Gujarat and a licensed civil engineer—highlighted this year’s theme, “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah”, meaning “May All Be Happy”. The theme, he said, reflects a global call for unity, harmony, and universal well-being.

For the first time in FIA history, the parade will feature floats representing Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, and Jain communities, alongside a rich display of India’s cultural and regional diversity. In total, 35 floats and numerous marching groups will participate.

The grand marshals for this year’s parade are Bollywood star Rashmika Mandanna and South Indian cinema icon Vijay Deverakonda. New York City Mayor Eric Adams and several elected officials have confirmed their attendance.

Parade attractions will include cultural performances, a vibrant street fair with Indian and international cuisines, vendor booths, and—new this year—a cricket playing area organized by title sponsor CricMax.

• In addition to the parade, FIA will host:
• Empire State Building Lighting Ceremony in tricolor on August 15
• Flag Hoisting at Times Square on August 16 at 10:30 a.m.
• Sold-out Gala Dinner at Cipriani’s, Wall Street, on August 17 evening

Parikh acknowledged the efforts of 1,800 volunteers, the FIA Board of Trustees, and numerous sponsors, including CricMax, X-RAY Group, TEK Group, Wenzel Foundation, Mehta Foundation, ICICI Bank, State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, and Bank of India.

“This parade is the pride of the Indian diaspora,” said Parikh. “Join us on August 17 to celebrate India’s Independence Day in the heart of New York. It will be a moment you will never forget”.