Chicago, August 24, 2025: Our flyers carried the tagline *‘NOTHING BUT PATRIOTIC FESTIVITIES.’* With the Tiranga Car Rally, Patriotic Gala, and today’s grand finale parade, I believe we lived up to it. Our goal was to ignite nationalistic pride—I believe we did, though the true judgment rests with the community, not us.
Many said this was one of the best parades in years—floats overflowing with nationalism, cheering crowds along the walkways, and for the first time in FIA history, businesses, politicians, and organizations proudly walking with their banners. Despite the Indian population shifting to the western suburbs, the turnout was impressive. Thirteen beautifully decorated floats, five classic cars and trucks, sixteen walking groups, and two lively bands made the parade spectacular. The American and Bharatiya flags waved everywhere, while FIA executives and trustees stood proud in tri-color jackets like a national uniform. Local businesses joined too—distributing juices, freebies, and dressing in patriotic colors. Chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai!” and “Long Live America!” filled the air.
I saw a social media post saying, ‘The streets of Devon Avenue came alive with vibrant colors, music, and the spirit of community.’ Some even said, ‘The old FIA spirit is back!’ If true, it was achieved without a Bollywood celebrity—proof that people come for the nation also! If Bollywood is required to draw crowds, it defeats the purpose of nationalism. The continuation of such successful parades and events depends on the community and FIA leadership who believe in country first. If we keep the nation at the center—not our names, photos, egos, certificates, medals, publicity, or expectations in return for help—community support is guaranteed. The country must always come first, not ourselves. If we truly serve the nation or community, our expectations—or asking recognition—for ourselves should be low.
Highlights included a dedicated float honoring Ironman Sardar Patel on his 150th birth anniversary with a 6-foot portrait, and a 15-foot banner declaring “WE ARE ONE.” The parade was not just for enjoyment—it was meant to stir patriotic emotion, honor millions of freedom fighters who gave us independence, remembering our heroes, and spread messages of unity and social awareness.
The event unfolded exactly as we envisioned—a true success born of nationalistic passion, teamwork, and the dedication of our volunteers, executives, trustees, and community leaders, all with a nation-first attitude!
Flag was led by Dr. Santosh Kumar, alongside trustees, executives, and community leaders—placing the community, not individuals, at the center. Trustee Sanhita Agnihotri and I (Hemant Patel) served as announcers, greeting floats, introducing participants, and expressing gratitude. Honorable Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India, addressed the gathering with inspiring words.
The parade began at Devon & Western and concluded at Devon & California with Garba (Gujarati religious dance).
As President of FIA, I extend heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, media partners, local businesses, the Consul General, community leaders, over 60 member organizations, and all our volunteers. I am especially grateful to the stage owner, who fulfilled his duty despite the tragic loss of his younger brother last night. My friend and today’s DJ, Chirag Patel, stepped in during the emergency and saved us from the embarrassment of being left without a stage.
Thanks to all participating organizations and businesses—Federation of Indian Associations – Chicago, MMC – Maharashtra Mandal Dhol Tasa team, 750 year Jayanti celebration Palkhi of Maharashtra’s favorite Santh Dyaneshwar, CK Motors, Surbhi Grocery Store, VT Patel for Hummer Pickup Truck, Sardar Patel Foundation, Shree Jalaram Mandir, CHMG, MAFS & UMAS, Karni Sena with Truck, Umiya Maa Sansthan Chicago Midwest, Ekal, Hanuman Mandir of Greater Chicago, Brahma Samaj, Care for Soul, Harsumiran Mandir, ISKCON – Chicago, Regal Jewels, Ganesh Temple, Seva International, Bharatbhai Shah for Classic Car, Patel Brothers, Air Tours, United Senior Pariwar, Indian Community of Niles Township (ICNT), Devon Merchant Community, Devil Hindu Pariwar, UTCC, Art of Living, VHPA, Hindu Vivaah, Dynasty Home Care, Flextron Circuit Assembly, Joyalukkas Jewellery, Bruce Leon for Congress, State Bank of India (SBI), Joy (Dipen) Shah for Classic Car, and Neil for Congress.
Parade highlights: https://youtu.be/jJM5xIV0Gtw
YouTube Live: https://www.youtube.com/live/
FIA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
Thank you,
-Hemant Patel
President, FIA-Chicago
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