Chicago’s Celebration of Indian Independence Day and American Freedom

Celebrations on Devon Avenue

Chicago’s Indian Independence Day celebration unfolded with vibrant displays and energetic performances. Motorcycles roared and drums resonated as marchers dressed in orange, white, and green embarked down Devon Avenue in West Ridge. The parade, now a fixture in its 46th year, commenced Sunday afternoon.

South Asian cultural groups participated, commemorating 80 years of Indian independence with music, dance, and floats adorned with Indian flags and streamers. This year’s parade was especially significant for Rakesh Malhotra, a trustee from the Federation of Indian Associations, which organized the event. He expressed joy in honoring both India and America’s milestones in freedom, highlighting their shared history of British colonial rule.

The world’s largest democracies are celebrating freedom.

Before the parade began, attendees unfurled a large Indian flag, singing both national anthems, “Jana Gana Mana” and “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Marchers also waved American flags during the half-mile procession from Western Avenue to California Avenue.

Cultural Performances and Community Engagement

The event concluded with traditional dance performances, including Bhangra and Garba. Bharat Barai, chair of the FIA board, emphasized the significance of fostering strong bonds between India and the United States. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that around 5.2 million Indians reside in the United States, with Chicago housing approximately 238,000.

Barai, reflecting on his own journey from India to Illinois for medical studies 51 years ago, emphasized the importance of maintaining connections between one’s homeland and adopted country.

You can’t forget either of the two.

Initially held on Michigan Avenue, the parade shifted to Devon Avenue in the 1990s. This location is recognized as Little India, known for its South Asian businesses.

Along the parade route, members of the West Ridge Community Alliance advocated for immigrant support and protested ICE activities, highlighting recent immigration challenges in the area.

Social Reflections and Community Contributions

Pooja Ravindran, an Indian American, expressed mixed feelings about the celebration, urging discussions on social issues in both India and the U.S. She emphasized the need for mutual support.

Over 40 local diaspora groups participated, according to Malhotra, including professional networks, nonprofits, and religious organizations. Santosh Kumar, waving from a flag-bedecked float, shared her story of emigrating to Chicago 42 years ago. As founder of Metropolitan Asian Family Services in West Ridge, Kumar focuses on support services for seniors and immigrants.

It feels like a home here.