On August 13, 2025, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey issued a formal proclamation declaring August 15 as “India Day in the Commonwealth.” The proclamation followed the 4th International India Day Parade hosted on August 10 at Boston Harbor by the Foundation of Indian Americans – New England (FIA‑NE).
The parade wove together cultural heritage and civic celebration. Attended by representatives from more than 20 nations, the event featured Bollywood actor and filmmaker Jugal Hansraj as Grand Marshal, themed floats honoring figures such as George Washington and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, and a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary. Community leaders, including officials from the Boston Mayor’s office and Indian consulate, joined the ribbon-cutting and observance of India Day.
The governor’s proclamation emphasized the Indian American community’s cultural, economic, and civic contributions to Massachusetts. It elevated a grassroots celebration into an officially recognized state moment-an acknowledgment of the community’s growing presence and influence in the Commonwealth.
The parade balanced celebratory vibrancy with inclusive messaging. With the theme “United World, Shared Dream: Peace, Prosperity, and Progress,” FIA‑NE linked Indian independence values with American ideals. The event also featured scholarships awarded through the Parikh Foundation, public recognition of senior volunteers, and a Governor’s Special Citation honoring outstanding achievements.
State-level recognition like this matters for representation and visibility. As Indian Americans contribute broadly-from health care to small business-“India Day” provides a unifying focal point for cultural pride and civic belonging. It offers educators, community groups, and media an anchor for programming and storytelling, while giving young South Asian Americans a formal moment of recognition in their public landscape.
Moreover, the proclamation came at a moment of renewed attention to multicultural inclusion. Declaring August 15 as India Day aligns with broader efforts to celebrate immigrant communities and their heritage within American civic life.
Key Takeaways About the India Day Proclamation
- Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey proclaimed August 15 as “India Day in the Commonwealth” on August 13, 2025.
- The declaration followed the 4th International India Day Parade held August 10 at Boston Harbor by FIA‑NE.
- Parade featured tributes to George Washington, Netaji Bose, Sardar Patel, Bollywood Grand Marshal Jugal Hansraj, and cross-community floats.
- Event included scholarships, senior recognition, and civic honorees-highlighting cultural and public service intersections.
- The state proclamation enhances South Asian American visibility and affirms Massachusetts’ commitment to multicultural celebration.
