Delaware Governor Matthew Meyer has signed a proclamation to formally recognise August 15 as ‘India Day’. The milestone comes just days ahead of the upcoming 80th Independence Day in India.
Matthew Meyer’s Statement
Delaware has officially become the fourth US state to recognise August 15 as ‘India Day’. A proclamation regarding the same was signed by state governor Matthew Meyer today.
“Delawareans of Indian heritage have enriched our State through their work, leadership, and service in communities across Delaware, contributing to our shared prosperity and creating opportunities for future generations”, the proclamation stated.
It then added that “India’s history is rooted in a remarkable diversity of languages, traditions, faiths, and customs, and generations of Indian Americans have carried these traditions forward while building lives and communities in the United States”. Meyer has urged all residents of Delaware to honour the enduring ties between our communities and the people of India.
August 15 is also marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies at the Indian Embassy in Washington, as well as at consulates and the Indian mission to the UN, parades, cultural performances, and special events. Indian Americans have been instrumental to the growth of industries like healthcare, technology, higher education in the US.
What is India Day?
India Day will be a cultural celebration held on August in states like Delaware, New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Some activities planned for the occasion include parades & floats, flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural festivals with performances featuring traditional Indian arts. Some public places will turn into open markets serving diverse regional Indian cuisines alongside stalls selling traditional clothing (sarees, kurtas) and handcrafted items. Some popular events include the Busse Woods in Schaumburg, Illinois, (live patriotic concerts, traditional dances, and open-air food courts) and the one from India’s embassy in Washington DC (traditional music, Odissi dance showcases, speeches).
Other US States with India Day Celebrations
Apart from Delaware, these 3 US states also mark August 15 as ‘India Day’:
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New York
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New Jersey
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Massachusetts
Prominent events also take place in states like Michigan, Illinois, Washington and California, as the Indian diaspora is quite notable there.
Delaware’s ‘India Day’ Occasion: Significance
Delaware’s decision to commemorate August 15 as India Day is quite significant. It honors the contribution of the state’s Indian diaspora and establishes it as a progressive and welcoming place for immigrants from India.
