On Sunday, August 21, 2022, the Federation of Indian Association (FIA) organized a parade in New York to celebrate India’s Independence Day. Over 500 BAPS devotees took part in the program along with thousands of other Indian Americans from various organizations.
A special part of the program included a Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centennial celebration. In the parade, a float representing the Hindu sentiments of, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbhakam,” (the world is one family) carried children through the major streets of the city. At the end of the parade, there was a short program in which shlokas and kirtans were sung in unison to spread the guru’s glory. The devotees from nearby mandirs also took part in the FIA’s program of setting the Guiness World Record for the most people playing the damaru (hand-drum) and most different flags flown simultaneously - both in honor of the 75th anniversary of India’s independence.
At the end of the celebrations, BAPS provided food to the participants from every organization. Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj’s wish to, “expand the circle of unity throughout the world,” was manifested this afternoon through the celebrations.