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

January 27, 2022

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The Federation of Indian Associations-New England, celebrated India’s Republic Days Jan. 25, 2022, at Grand Worcester Union Station, in Worcester, Mass. Seen in picture is the unfurling of the Indian flag by elected officials at the national and state level. Photo: courtesy FIA-New England

The Federation of Indian Association (FIA)-New England, celebrated the 73rd Republic Day of India on January 25, 2022, at Grand Worcester Union Station, Worcester, Massachusetts.

It was attended by members of the Indian-American community, and others.

Because of Covid restrictions, the event was a combination of Zoom/YouTube/Facebook live in front of the 75 invited guests, and more than 1,000 online guests, according to a press release from the organization.

Worcester Union Station was decorated in the hues of saffron, white, and green as the Indian tricolor was unfurled by dignitaries belonging to different castes, creeds, religions, and colors, reflecting the joy of unity amidst diversity and to mark the 73rd anniversary of Republic Day of India, organizers noted.

Among those who participated in unfurling the flag were Massachusetts State Senator Michael O. Moore, State Representative Robert Lancia, U.S. Congressman Jim McGovern, State Representative Hannah Kane, Ex-congressman Joe Kennedy, Interim Chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Terrick Andey.

This was followed by the singing of the Indian national anthem.

About 75 invites attended the Jan. 25, 2022 Republic Day of India celebrations held in Worcester, Mass. Another 1,000 watched online, organizers said. Photo: courtesy FIA-New England

Abhishek Singh, president of Federation of India Association (FIA) New England Chapter, delivered a moving speech lauding the valuable contribution of Indian nationals residing in New England and the strengthening of the India-U.S. 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.

Attendees pose for a photo at the Jan. 25, 2022 Republic Day of India celebrations held in Worcester. Photo: courtesy FIA-New England

He also dwelt on the importance of rights and duties and how one informed the other.

Consul General of India, New York Randhir Jaiswal, and State Representative Hannah Kane conveyed their messages to the audience and wished the FIA and 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,” Hannah Kane is quoted saying in the press release. “This special opportunity is also an opportunity throughout New England and honors the integral role and importance in our local town and cities,” she added.

The program included dance performances by the students of acclaimed choreographer and dancer Kalaimangai Anabalgan from Amudhasri Dance School. The dance depicted India’s diverse culture, beauty, power, cosmic power of Shakti Goddess and Lord Krishna, the press release said.