The flag-raising ceremony to commemorate India’s 77th Independence Day was arranged by the Association of Indians in America, which has been around since 1967. Hundreds of people came to the occasion to take in the lovely flag hoisting and lively cultural events. At the center of the city’s Daley Plaza, the national anthems of the US and India were played before the event began. The speeches of the dignitaries, including the chief guest Maria Pappas (Cook County Treasurer), AIA President Lion India’s 77th Independence Day , Chairman Salil Mishra, AIA national Vice President Santhosh Pandey, and Prem Mehrotra, were then delivered. A proclamation was given to AIA president Hina Trivedi by Maria Pappas (Cook County Treasurer, Illinois).wishing a happy Independence Day to India and to the entire Indian American community. Nilabh Dubey, Shabana Rahman, and Santosh Pandey flawlessly anchored the stage while Nilabh Dubey and Shabana Rahman served as the other anchor. Prem Mehrotra received the AIA Lifetime Leadership Award for his 30 years of dedication to this prestigious company. He recognized Dr. Pandey’s contribution to instilling AIA principles in the following generation. President Lion Hina Trivedi urged the community to continue supporting women’s empowerment and children’s overall development.
She praised the parents for introducing their children to Indian culture and for bringing them to the auspicious event to perform. Children of all ages eagerly took part in the cultural event, singing patriotic songs with their families and friends in attendance. Since August 20, 1967, AIA has been one of the oldest organizations in the US promoting Indian culture and heritage. The grassroots, nationwide AIA organization was founded on the “One Member, One Vote” democratic tenet and represents Asian immigrants in the United States. The organization’s mission is to increase promoting an inclusive environment for both Indian and non-Indian community members helps bring the community together. President Hina Trivedi thanked everyone for participating in her speech.