AAPI Members March in New York City India Day Parade Celebrating India’s 80th Independence Day
Indian American physicians joined community organizations and officials along Madison Avenue for the annual celebration
NEW YORK — Leaders and members of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) participated in New York City’s India Day Parade this month, joining thousands of people along Madison Avenue to mark India’s 80th Independence Day.
AAPI President Dr. Meher Medavaram led the organization’s delegation, joined by current officers, trustees, young physicians and other members.
In remarks marking the occasion, Medavaram encouraged Indian Americans to honor India’s history while continuing to contribute to their communities in the United States.
“As we celebrate India’s independence, we are reminded of the sacrifices, struggles, and unwavering spirit that have shaped the world’s largest democracy,” Medavaram said. She also urged members of the diaspora to contribute to society and uphold the values of democracy, freedom and equality.
The AAPI delegation included Dr. Vijay Maurya, chair of the Board of Trustees; Dr. Krishan Kumar, president-elect; Dr. Jagdish Gupta, chair of the AAPI Global Foundation; trustees Dr. Sunita Polepalle, Dr. Avinash C. Gupta and Dr. Uma Jonnalagadda; Dr. Pratik Kothari, president of the Young Physicians Section; and Dr. Priyanka Kolli, immediate past president of the Medical Student and Residents Forum, along with senior leaders, past presidents and young physicians.
The annual parade was organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) and featured floats and performances celebrating Indian culture and heritage. FIA leadership included Chairman Ankur Vaidya and President Sreekanth Akkapalli.
Among the public officials and dignitaries attending the 2026 parade were New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, State Sen. Jeremy Cooney and Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan.
Physicians highlight community role
AAPI President-elect Dr. Krishan Kumar said the parade provided an opportunity for Indian American physicians to celebrate their heritage and recognize the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
“Indian Americans continue to make India proud,” Kumar said, while also remembering those who fought for India’s independence.
Dr. Vijay Maurya similarly called attention to those who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence and subsequent development.
AAPI was founded in 1982 and represents physicians of Indian origin in the United States. The organization says its members are involved in medical education, healthcare delivery, advocacy and charitable initiatives in both the United States and India.
Medavaram said Indian American physicians’ contributions extend beyond clinical practice to education, leadership and healthcare advocacy.
“As AAPI continues to grow, we must remain united in promoting excellence in healthcare and strengthening ties between the medical communities of India and the U.S.,” she said.
The New York City India Day Parade is held annually around India’s August 15 Independence Day and brings together Indian American organizations, cultural groups, businesses and community members from across the region.
