ATLANTA, GA (TIP): In his first Independence Day address since beginning his third term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated a vision for a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047, drawing inspiration from the nation’s freedom struggle in a stirring speech delivered from the historic Red Fort on August 15, 2024. Underlining the power of collective determination during the freedom struggle, he noted how 40 crore people managed to overthrow colonial rule and expressed confidence that today’s citizens could achieve much more. “This is the golden period of Bharat. Viksit Bharat 2047 awaits us,” he declared, underscoring the significant efforts underway to meet this goal. The speech served as a clarion call for national pride and collective effort toward advancing India’s technological and industrial capabilities on the global stage.

His vision resonated across the globe. Tricolors flew beyond seven seas at the grand 28th Annual Festival of India celebrations hosted by the India American Cultural Association (IACA) at the Gas South Center. From spectacular cultural performances that showcased India’s rich tapestry of traditional dance forms to the awe-inspiring headless dance by Indian performing artist Robo Ganesan, the festival, with its bazaar, fanfare, pageantry, a movie trailer release, and seminars, attracted over 6,000 attendees and 60 diverse vendors. The festival echoed the honor and rich heritage of India across borders. “Festival of India was a grand success, with more attendance than in recent years. The festival witnessed celebrity guest Jayaprada and Attorney General Chris Carr,” said Kaushal Tripathi, President of IACA.

“As a member of the FOI founding team since 1997, it is heartening to see FOI grow over the years and help us celebrate India’s Independence Day every year joyfully. During the preparation and on the event day, we touch the lives of so many kids, performers, families, and volunteers and get a chance to meet many of our community friends and exchange pleasantries,” noted Ani Agnihotri, BOD, IACA.
The 300 ft flag march, accompanied by the energetic Dhol Tasha by Nadtal Atlanta, enhanced the patriotic fervor! The Health Fair on-site featured over 16 different specialties, 22 physicians, and a blood drive. The Health Fair was organized by Dr. Lalitha Medepalli, Dr. Indira Devu, and Dr. Indira Menon.
Cultural performances highlighting diverse dance forms of India kept the audience enthralled throughout the day. “One of the main attractions of the Festival of India is the cultural program stage. It is always a challenge to stage over 40 performances involving over 300 artists, VIPs, and awardees. The cultural team worked overtime to meet the challenge, and it showed.
Several competitions, catering to various interests including art, chess, dance, and public speaking, provided a platform for participants to showcase their talents in their chosen fields.
“Festival of India celebrated its 28th anniversary with two new initiatives: the Women’s Forum and the Youth Forum. And we are very excited about both,” said Chand Akkineni, Chairman, BOD, IACA, who also conceptualized the idea of FOI in 1997.
Art competition hosted by Shashikala Foundation, Public Speaking organized by Area G71- Youth Leadership coordinators Ranjitha Veena Kadam & Lina Surianto, IACA Mohar Chess Tournament, organized by Mohua Maity owner of Mohar chess with Anna Baumstark, Joseph Couvillion, Viral Shah. With Dr. Fun Fong, President of GCA, who sponsored all the chess sets, clocks, attracted kids and young adults alike, drawing large participants in each of the activities. The winners were awarded at the event. The Dance competition held earlier in the day was coordinated by Geetanjali Talukdar, BOD, IACA.
Public Speaking competition was organized by-Area G71 Toastmaster Youth Leadership Co-ordinators-Ranjithaveena Pol & Lina Surianto. Winners included 1st place- Kashvi Anantharam, 2nd place- Agasthya Tutukuri, 3rd place – Jerrick Jayasarathi in Middle School Category, 1st place – Gitanjali Nair in High School category and 1st place – Shourya Tutukuri, 2nd place – Thiru Sowrirajan in Table topics.
Food from 5 well known restaurants and shopping aplenty completed the wholesome experience.
“Months of dedicated efforts by volunteers and organizers bring this festival alive. Sincere and heartfelt thanks to each of them who contributed wholeheartedly,” the board members said in a joint statement.