Indian American Seniors hold flag hoisting ceremony in Clifton City Hall, NJ

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More than 250 community members attended India’s 78th Independence Day celebration at Clifton City Hall, which falls on August 15. It was hosted by Indo-American Seniors Association of Clifton, NJ., IASAC

The program began with ShantiPath by Young Balika Aria Patel of BAPS, followed by Hiral Patel who spoke on the Concept of India’s Independence Day, a press release from IASAC said.

President Of the Indo American Seniors Association Bharat Rana welcomed invited dignitaries including Consul of the Community Affairs of Indian Consulate General of India Brijendra Kumar.

In his speech Mayor Ray Grabowski praised Indian American Community, for contributing their part toward Clifton City development, with academic, economic and social support.

The tricolor Indian flag was raised by the Consul Kumar with Mayor and community leaders. The American national anthem was played followed by the Indian anthem.

Also present were Kim Parra, liaison Of Congressman Josh Gottheimer of Bergen County, who presented a Recognition Citation to Rana and IASAC executive committee  for the outstanding leadership and invaluable service to the Community.

New Jersey State Assemblywoman Rosy Bagoli said the Indian community is part of her family because her cousin is married to an Indian American husband. She also said that She is always there to support the community and praised its contributions to New Jersey.

Consul Brijender Kumar said the Consulate General’s office will always happy to support any immigration issues or if there are any needs connected to OCI or Indian Visa or passport applications assistance.

Councilman Bill Gibson said he had been attending the Indian American flag-raising ceremony for the last 14 years and never missed one. He also said he enjoyed the event because it is always colorful, and people come in huge numbers.
A representative from Congressman Bill Pascrell’s office brought good wishes from the Congressman, who he said was not well enough to attend.

“Today we’re all gathered as a proud people of Indian origin to show our patriotism and to display our rich culture. We are not only celebrating India’s independence but also strengthening the cultural and social bonds between the two greatest and largest democracies,” Rana said in his speech.

Other high profile guests at the gathering included Allan Paris , president of the Board of Education, Commissioner John Bartlet, BOE Commissioner Joe Siano, Councilman Chris D’Amato, BOE Commissioner Anthony Santiago, CEO and the Owner of the Faith Home Health care provider, and entrepreneur Geeta Fofandi.

Indian food was served with Coffee and donuts at the event.