The vibrant and patriotic spirit of India’s 76th Republic Day was on full display as the Bay Area’s Indian American community came together at the India Community Center in Milpitas, California on Sunday, January 26, 2025. The event, organized by the Association of Indo Americans, saw a diverse range of local community and language-based organizations participating in the festivities, with esteemed guests including Consul General Dr. Srikar Reddy, Congressman Ro Khanna, and Assemblymembers Ash Kalra and Alex Lee among others.
As the celebrations unfolded, attendees were treated to a plethora of performances that showcased the rich cultural heritage of India. From traditional dances to musical concerts, folk dances, and even game shows, there was no shortage of entertainment throughout the day. One particularly heartwarming moment came during a children’s dance performance, featuring young dancers from various Bay Area cities who had been trained by members of the Bay Area Telugu Association. The young performers delighted the audience with their renditions of popular film songs and patriotic tunes, paying homage to the significance of Republic Day.
During his speech, Congressman Ro Khanna highlighted the profound influence of Dr. Ambedkar and W. E. B. Du Bois in shaping the Indian Constitution, emphasizing the values of equality and diversity that are foundational to a thriving democracy. His words resonated with the audience, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of upholding these principles in a world marked by increasing parochialism and ethnic nationalism.
The festivities were further enriched by the presence of local officials, including Fremont’s first Indian-American elected Mayor, Raj Salwan, and Cupertino Mayor Liang Chao, who joined in the celebrations alongside Supervisor Otto Lee and Elisa Marquez, and Rinu Nair, the youngest-ever woman elected to the Fremont Unified School District board. Their participation underscored the strong sense of community and camaraderie that permeated the event, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds in a shared celebration of Indian culture and heritage.
As the day drew to a close, more than a thousand guests had attended or participated in the event, with support from Bay Area-based diaspora businesses such as realtor Nagaraj Anniah, Srini Goli Real Estate, and PNG Jewelers, among others. Their sponsorship and presence added a touch of local flavor to the festivities, further enhancing the sense of community and collective pride that defined the Republic Day celebrations at the India Community Center.
In the midst of music, dance, laughter, and heartfelt speeches, the spirit of unity and cultural richness shone brightly, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of India’s Republic Day. As attendees waved the Indian national flag with pride and joy, the echoes of celebration reverberated throughout the India Community Center, leaving a lasting impression of unity and diversity that captured the essence of the day in all its glory.
