IAGB to Celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day with “Colors of India” at NARA Park on August 15
Greater Boston community celebration will mark India’s 79th Independence Day with cultural performances, community activities, cricket tournament, scholarship awards and appearances by regional dignitaries
ACTON, MA— The India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) will host India Day 2026, celebrating India’s 79th Independence Day, on Saturday, August 15, from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the NARA Park Amphitheater in Acton, Massachusetts.
The event, themed “Colors of India,” will bring together families and community members for an afternoon and evening featuring Indian cultural performances, music, food, community activities and other programs.
IAGB will welcome Chief Guest Raghuram S., Consul General of India, Boston, and Guest of Honor Anu Chitrapu, Senior Vice President & Technology Executive at Bank of America. Both will address attendees during the formal segment.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has also recognized India Day 2026. Governor Maura T. Healey issued a proclamation designating August 15, 2026, as India Day and recognizing India’s independence and the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
“August 15th, 2026 marks the 79th anniversary of India’s independence… India is a composite civilization… presenting an underlying unity.”
The Massachusetts State Senate, through Senator Jamie Eldridge, also issued a citation to IAGB India Day 2026:
“In recognition of the contributions of the Indian-American community in the Greater Boston area.”
Community Celebration and Cultural Program
The India Day program will feature more than 20 cultural performances by local artists and dance schools. Other activities include an interactive Flash Mob and Dance-Along led by Swasti Bhargava, a Grand Finale DJ Hour presented by Xtreme Productions, and more than 30 community booths, along with family activities and cultural showcases.
Attendees can also participate in raffle and trivia games. Admission and parking are free.
Nilesh Agrawal, President of IAGB, said: “India Day is more than a celebration — it is a reflection of our community’s unity, pride, and shared commitment to honoring India’s heritage here in Greater Boston. We are grateful to our dignitaries, partners, volunteers, and performers whose dedication brings this event to life. IAGB remains committed to creating spaces where culture, civic engagement, and community spirit come together.”
Deepak Garg, Vice President of IAGB, said: “India Day reflects the strength and unity of our community. It is inspiring to see families, performers, volunteers, and partners come together to celebrate India’s heritage with such pride and joy.”
Jharna Madan, Shital Bhammer and Arpita Das Pathak said: “India Day is a celebration built on collective effort and shared passion. We are grateful to our volunteers, choreographers, youth leaders, and community partners whose dedication brings this event to life year after year.”
Apna Bazar Farmers Market is the Grand Sponsor, and Craft Indian Kitchen is the Food Partner.
IAGB to Hold First Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament
Earlier on August 15, IAGB will host its first-ever Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament from 7 a.m. to noon at NARA Park Amphitheater and Macpherson Field in Acton.
The tournament will feature friendly competition and community participation, with awards for the Champion, Runner-Up, Best Batter and Best Bowler. All participants will receive a free T-shirt.
Senior Scholarship Awards
During the India Day formal program, IAGB will present two $500 Senior Scholarship Awards, supported by The Kapasi Family Foundation, to graduating high school seniors entering college in Fall 2026.
One scholarship will be awarded to a male student and one to a female student. Applicants submitted essays on the theme “Colors of India – Stories That Inspire.”
Event Details
IAGB India Day 2026 — “Colors of India”
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Time: 2:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Location: NARA Park Amphitheater, Acton, MA
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament: 7 a.m.–12 noon, NARA Park Amphitheater & Macpherson Field, Acton, MA.
Founded in 1962, IAGB is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Indian culture, fostering community engagement, and strengthening U.S.–India relations. The organization conducts flagship events including India Day and Republic Day, as well as year-round civic, cultural and educational initiatives.
For more information, visit www.iagb.org or contact iagb@iagb.org.
