New Jersey-based Indo-American Seniors Association hosts flag-raising ceremony
NEW JERSEY:- Indo-American Seniors Association celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony at Clifton City Hall.
The event, held on Sunday, August 23, 2026, began with prayers and a peace recitation by the BAPS ‘Balika Group’ (girls’ group), followed by a speech on the significance of India’s independence delivered by 12-year-old Khushi Patel. Additionally, Kritik and Chris from the ‘Unnati Dance Academy’ performed a patriotic ‘fusion’ dance.
According to the organizers, community members gathered dressed in saffron, white, and green, carrying small tricolors; the single slogan echoing in their hearts was “Vande Mataram!”
Distinguished guests and officials present included Clifton Mayor Ray Grabowski and outgoing Mayor James Anzaldi. The event saw a large turnout of elected officials and community leaders, a presence described as a symbol of the close bond between the Indian-American community and the city of Clifton.
The event was attended by Passaic County Deputy Director Orlando Cruz; County Commissioner Nick Valente; Surrogate Judge Zoila S. Casanova; City Council members Tony Latona, Chris D’Amato, and Rosie Pino; Board of Education President Judy Bassford; Board of Education Commissioners Joe Canova and Richard ‘Richie’ Mejia; and Abigail Rojas, representing Congresswoman Nellie Pou.
(A cultural performance during the Indo American Seniors Association of Clifton, NJ flag-raising ceremony to celebrate India’s independence, held August 23, 2026, along with America;s 250th. ALL PHOTOS: Indo-American Seniors of Clifton, NJ.)
Speaking at the flag-hoisting ceremony addressed by several elected representatives, the organization’s president, Bharat Rana, said, “Your presence on this beautiful morning proves that our love for the ‘Tiranga’ (Indian flag) is stronger than any clouds or weather. We are proud to be Americans. And, we are most proud to be Indo-Americans—where the best aspects of these two great democracies reside in our hearts!”
The participants chanted slogans such as “Bharat Mata Ki Jai! Vande Mataram! Jai Hind! God bless America!”
