Downtown San Jose Into Colorful Celebration Of Indian Culture

India-West Staff Reporter

SAN JOSE, CA — Downtown San Jose turned into a vibrant sea of colors, music, and patriotism as the Association of Indo Americans (AIA), in collaboration with Bolly 92.3, hosted ‘Swades’ to mark India’s 79th Independence Day.

The centerpiece of the celebration was AIA’s historic India Parade, featuring more than 75 decorated floats and drawing over 25,000 people throughout the day. Streets were alive with traditional music, spirited dancing, and the sights and sounds of India’s diverse culture.

A key mission of ‘Swades’ was to showcase Indian art and heritage. Over 100 children performed classical and Bollywood dances, while attendees enjoyed games such as carrom, chess, and other sports.

The day began with a flag-hoisting ceremony led by Grand Marshal and Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel, Guest of Honor Srikanth Bolla — founder of Earth Cleanse — and Rakesh Adlakha, Deputy Consul General of India in San Francisco. Together, they raised the Indian tricolor and greeted the crowd. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan hoisted the U.S. flag, praising the event as a growing cultural attraction for the city.

More than 50 elected officials from across Silicon Valley attended, including Assemblymember Ash Kalra, Fremont Mayor Raj Salwan, Santa Clara Councilmember Raj Chahal, and Saratoga Councilmember Tina Walia.

The parade featured floats representing the culture and heritage of India’s states, with participants dancing and singing along the route. Patriotic songs echoed through the streets until the festivities concluded at 10:30 p.m. with “Vijay Bharat” — a cultural showcase of state dances, classical performances, live music by Jhoom Productions, karaoke by BATA/AIA singers, and a fireworks finale.

AIA thanked its sponsors and volunteers for their support in making the event a success.

The Association of Indo Americans is a nonprofit organization that serves as a platform for celebrating and preserving the heritage of the Indian American community in the United States.