EDISON, NJ (TIP):  Indian American community in New Jersey celebrated India’s Independence Day at the Oak Tree Road Parade with fervor and enthusiasm. According to the organizers, more than 40, 000 enthusiasts turned up at the 13^th annual India Day Parade, hosted by the Indian Business Association.  Bollywood star Riteish Deshmukh was the Grand Marshall.

“We had an amazing turnout, largest in the history of this event,” said Dhiren Amin, President of the Association.  “Hundreds of volunteers worked around the clock to organize this event. I am really proud of our team,” he added.

Present for the festivities were Phil Murphy and Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno, both candidates for Governor, along with their respective running mates. Also in attendance were several elected officials from both parties, including legislators, freeholders, and mayors.

Edison Mayor Tom Lankey administered the Oath of Office to IBA Vice President Mahesh Bhagia, who has been appointed as Special Assistant to the Mayor for Edison Township.  “It was a historic moment” said Manher Shah, who is a trustee for IBA.

The parade featured 19 floats, 2 marching bands, and a number of walking groups.  Over 100 organizations participated in the festivities. The Air India and JFK Hospital floats particularly drew the attention of the audience. Chandrakant Patel, Chairman for the organization thanked its sponsors. “Our sponsors are generous and supportive of the community. They should be commended.”

A cultural program featuring local artists followed the parade.  The parade runs through Oak Tree Road, from Edison to Woodbridge. It is the only parade that runs through two towns.