PARSIPPANY — Parsippany recently hosted its largest-ever celebration of India’s Independence Day, held alongside a celebration of the United States’ founding, at Smith Field Park. The event was held with the support of Mayor Pulkit Desai and First Lady Sangita Desai, and was hosted by Hemil Kapadia and Khushi Prajapati of Switch Beats Entertainment.
The celebration ran for four hours and included a wide range of programming, including the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, a symbol of peace, wisdom and prosperity. Lighting a diya is an Indian tradition, but organizers noted that light belongs to every culture, every faith and every generation, representing hope, wisdom and a brighter tomorrow across generations past, present and future.
The event was attended by many dignitaries, including Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai, First Lady Sangita Desai, New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell, U.S. Congresswoman Analilia Mejia, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Judy Hernandez, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, Morristown Councilman Chris Russo, Randolph Councilman Joe Hataway and former Parsippany Councilman Justin Musella.
The program also featured the National Anthem of the United States and the Pledge of Allegiance, performed solo by Sonia Dadheech, followed by the Indian flag hoisting, carried out by Indian Navy veteran Hari Kundaram, Indian Air Force veteran John Parekunnel, and U.S. Marine veteran and Mayor Pulkit Desai.
Fifteen children, ranging in age from three to fifteen, performed a live group singing of the Indian National Anthem.
The event also included a classical cultural showcase featuring Bharatanatyam by Kalashri School of Arts, a Kathak dance performance by Matra – The Beat Performing Arts Academy, a patriotic singing performance by Maanvit Gandhi, a patriotic dance performance by AUM Dance Creations, a yoga dance by Satvik Breath Yoga Studio, Garba and Bhangra by Shakti Performing Arts Collective, and a Zumba performance led by instructors Kiruba and Roshini.
Organizers said a large number of talented performers and community members turned out to Smith Field Park to show their patriotism for both India and the United States, and said they hope to make next year’s celebration even bigger.
