MAYOR GIULIANI PROCLAIMS AUGUST 15th INDIA DAY IN NEW YORK CITY
Celebrates 50th Anniversary of India's Independence
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today presented a proclamation to the President of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), Kanu Chauhan, declaring August 15, 1997 India Day in New York City. The Consul General of India, Harsh K. Bhasin, also joined the Mayor at the City Hall ceremony which commemorated the 50th anniversary of India's Independence from British rule on August 15, 1947.
"Indian-Americans in New York City have contributed to the City in professions ranging from medicine to business to education," Mayor Giuliani said. "Their energy, vitality and love of freedom has made our City strong. The beautiful dance, music and art of Indian culture have enriched our lives and broadened our appreciation of the world. Indian-Americans in New York City maintain strong ties with Southeast Asia, passing their traditions and languages on to their children.
"India and the United States are both enormous, diverse democracies -- nations that the world once doubted would survive and thrive," the Mayor continued. "But the spirit of freedom out of which we were each born keeps us going. Like our American forefathers, Washington and Jefferson, Mahatma Gandhi helped the Indian people to harness their power in the name of independence, unity and justice.
"I want to thank the Federation of Indian Associations for all the work that they do not only for this celebration, but for the entire Indian community in New York City," the Mayor concluded.
FIA, established in 1970, represents over 300,000 Indian-Americans who live in the tri-state area. The organization is comprised of many cultural, social, religious and regional member associations and works to improve the quality of life of the Indian-American community. FIA also aims to spread the rich cultural and social heritage of India and Indian-Americans to a broader strata of society.
Since 1981, FIA has celebrated India's Independence Day with a parade down Madison Avenue, scheduled this year for Sunday, August 17th. Celebrations of India's Independence Day culminate with a street fair on 23rd Street, a concert by famed Indian artists and a banquet.
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