NYC Mayor Eric Adams celebrates India Independence Day

Adams described New York City as the "New Delhi of America" during the 78th Independence Day celebration.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams, Indian Consul General of New York Binayak Pradhan, Deputy Commissioner of NYC Mayor's Office for International Affairs Dilip Chauhan during India Flag Raising Ceremony. / Caroline Rubinstein-Willis- NYC Mayor Office

New York City Mayor Eric Adams celebrated India's 78th Independence Day in New York with the hoisting of the Indian tricolor, highlighting the country's rich cultural heritage and the strong bilateral ties between India and the U.S.

Adams described New York City as the "New Delhi of America" and reflected on his trip to India, where he paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi. Adams emphasized the responsibility to continue Gandhi's legacy of uplifting humanity and promoting diversity.

He praised the Indian community in New York, noting the significant presence of Indian and Indian-origin professionals, including business owners, healthcare workers, educators, and teachers. "You do us proud here in this city and in our entire country," Adams remarked, acknowledging their contributions to the city and the nation.

On the occasion, Consul General of New York Binayak Pradhan underlined the rise of the Indian-American partnership. "If President Biden says that this is the most consequential partnership of the 21st century, we in India echo that. We strongly endorse that and we strongly believe in that. We believe that it has reached a point of inflection where now the Indians and the United States are working on all sectors of human endeavour," he said.

Consul General of New York Binayak Pradhan. / Caroline Rubinstein-Willis- NYC Mayor Office

Pradhan remarked that the Independence Day commemoration not only honors India's independence but also celebrates the nation's rise and its remarkable growth story over the past 78 years.

Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs, informed members of the diaspora at the event that, for the first time in the city's history, schools will be closed on Diwali. He highlighted that this historic decision was the result of years of efforts and advocacy from the community.

"Diwali is going to teach love, unity and harmony among the students, who will be the future leaders," Chauhan said. He added that the decision to close schools on Nov. 1, for Diwali this year "reflects a deep respect for the rich culture that makes our community strong. Our diversity with language, religion, and traditions stands as a beacon of unity."

Chauhan, who leads Trade, Investment, and Innovation for New York City, emphasized that NYC is back in business. "Our hospitality industry is back. If you want to open your business or you wanted to expand your business, we are here to help you whether for local business or international business,” he said.

The flag-hoisting ceremony, organized by The Indian Cultural Association of North America, was brought to life with a vibrant performance that highlighted the diverse cultural tapestry of India. The event was filled with colors, music, and dances, creating an atmosphere of celebration and unity.