Federation of Indian Association (FIA) New England, imbued with great patriotic zeal and fervor, celebrated the 73rd Republic Day on January 25, 2022, at Grand Worcester Union Station, 2 Washington Sq., Worcester, MA 01604 with the Indo-American Community, and other partners. Due to Covid restrictions, the event was a combination of Zoom/YouTube/ Facebook live in front of the 75 invited guests, and more than 1000 online guests. The event commenced with the hoisting of the National flag by Senator, Michael O. Moore, State Representative Robert Lancia, Congressman Jim McGovern, State Representative Hannah Kane, Ex-congressman Joe Kennedy, Interim Chair Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Terrick Andey, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and a powerful welcome speech by Abhishek Singh, President of Federations of India Association (FIA) New England Chapter. The entire premise of Worcester Union Station was drenched in the hues of saffron, white, and green as the Indian tricolor was unfurled by dignitaries belonging to different caste, creed religion, and colors reflecting the joy of unity amidst diversity and to mark the 73rd anniversary of Republic Day. In his address, Abhishek Singh, President FIA New England Chapter lauded the valuable contribution of Indian nationals residing in New England in the strengthening of the India, American partnership. He also emphasized the relevance of January 26th, which is a day of pride and honor for all Indians, and the core values enshrined in the Indian Constitution which are Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. He also explained the importance of rights and duties. He said rights have real meaning only if individuals perform duties. A duty is something that someone is expected or required to do. In fact, rights and duties are two wheels on which the chariot of life moves forward smoothly. Life can become smoother if rights and duties go hand in hand and become complementary to each other. Rights are what we want others to do for us whereas duties are those acts which we should perform for others. Thus, a right comes with an obligation to show respect for the rights of others. The obligations that accompany rights are in the form of duties. If we have the right to enjoy public facilities like transport or health services, it becomes our duty to allow others to avail themselves the same. If we have the right to freedom, it becomes our duty not to misuse this and harm others. Consulate General of India, New York (USA), Randhir Kumar Jaiswal, and State Representative Hannah Kane conveyed messages to audiences supporting the Indian diaspora’s role in IndoAmerican relations and wished the Federation of Indian Associations, as well as the entirety of the Indian American community, a very happy 73rd anniversary of the Republic of India. “This day represents freedom from oppression as well as official adoption of the Indian Constitution, serving as a reminder of a long, hard battle fought by the Indian community. This special opportunity is also an opportunity throughout New England and honors the integral role and importance in our local town and cities” said Hannah Kane, State Representative. Republic Day celebrations witnessed mesmerizing and remarkable dance performances by the students of wellacclaimed choreographer and dancer Kalaimangai Anabalgan from Amudhasri Dance School. India’s diverse culture, beauty, power, cosmic power of Shakti Goddess and Lord Krishna were well depicted in the dance performances that mesmerized and spiritually elevated the appreciative audience. At the end of the event, dinner was served to nearly 75 guests, including dignitaries of different faiths and cultures as well as members of the Indian community from New England. Overall, more than 1000 people of Indian origin, and friends of India attended the event virtually and in person.

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FIA-New England celebrates 73rd Republic Day in Worcester, MA

FIA-New England celebrates 73rd Republic Day in Worcester, MA