Massachusetts declares August 15 as India Day, honours Indian diaspora

Washington,UPDATED: Aug 5, 2026 08:24 IST

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has declared August 15 as India Day, recognising the contribution of the Indian diaspora to the state and urging residents to observe the day fittingly.

In a proclamation issued on August 1, Healey also acknowledged the role of community organisations and advocates in promoting civic engagement, cultural exchange and mutual understanding through annual Independence Day celebrations and community service efforts. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also issued a similar proclamation declaring August 15 as India Day.

Wu welcomed the opening of the new Indian Consulate in Boston and also marked the visit of INS Sudarshini during the SAILBOSTON-250 event.

The proclamation issued by the Massachusetts governor said August 15, 2026, will mark the 79th anniversary of India’s independence from British colonial rule in 1947, which it described as a historic moment that laid the foundation for the world’s largest democracy.

It noted that India has the largest diaspora in the world, with more than 36 million people of Indian origin living abroad. It added that over five million people of Indian origin live in the United States and make major contributions to the country’s social, economic and civic life.

The proclamation also described India as a composite civilisation and an ancient nation with a wide diversity of ethnic groups, religions, languages, customs, traditions, clothing, food, climatic conditions and natural resources, while retaining an underlying unity.

It further said the Indian-American population in Massachusetts has made significant contributions to medicine, science, technology, education, business and public service, enriching the cultural and economic fabric of the Commonwealth. It added that the Indian-American community across Massachusetts continues to mark the occasion through events celebrating India’s cultural heritage, democratic values and commitment to peace and progress.

The proclamations by the governor and the Boston mayor recognise both India’s Independence Day and the role of the Indian-American community in Massachusetts, while also encouraging wider participation in the observance.

With PTI Inputs

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