Indian 79th Independence Day celebrated with pride in Long Island, NY
New York: The Indian community of Long Island came together to celebrate the 79th Independence Day of India, organized by Navika Capital Group and Blue Sky Hospitality Solutions at the Marriott Long Island. Over 1000 community members, local leaders, and distinguished guests attended, including Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive, NY, and Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, India.
The celebration opened with the American and Indian national anthems, reflecting unity, respect, and the strong bond between the two nations. County Executive Bruce Blakeman addressed the gathering, highlighting the contributions of Indian-American residents to business, technology, and civic life. He acknowledged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nassau County, wished India a happy Independence Day, and officially declared Independence Day for India across Nassau County.
Mr. Sandhu, who traveled from India especially for the event, expressed heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the Indian-American community, saying he was “stunned” by their enthusiasm and patriotism and praised their efforts to keep Indian traditions alive abroad.
Community leader Harry Singh Bola underscored the importance of unity, saying, “Our efforts will be meaningful only when we put our differences aside, represent India as one country, one people, one person equals the whole community.”
Organizers and leadership reflected on the event’s significance. Naveen Shah, CEO, said, “I wanted to celebrate the birthday of India, our soil, our nation - this celebration shows the strength of our community, our culture, and our unity.”
Haridas Kotahwala, Chairman, added, “It is our honor to celebrate India’s Independence Day with such pride. Including Janmashtami made the occasion even more special, reminding us of our national heritage and spiritual traditions.”
The evening featured a vibrant cultural program that went beyond music and dance, presenting a theatrical storytelling of India’s independence struggle. The Nassau County Band added to the celebration by performing a parade around the Long Island Marriott, infusing the evening with energy and patriotism.
A citation recognizing impactful work for the community from Bruce Blakeman’s office was presented to Naveen Shah, Neha Bhansali, Madhu Pareek, Garry Sikka, and Harry Singh Bolla. Also, Governor Hochul’s Proclamation declaring August 15, India Independence Day in NYS, was presented by Varinder Bhalla to Naveen Shah.
Naveen Shah concluded the event with pride, unity, and a shared commitment to honor India’s independence while contributing positively to life in America.
