IAGB’s India Day Celebration Draws Thousands to New Acton Venue
NARA Park hosted the Aug. 15 celebration as the Greater Boston Indian-American community marked India’s 80th Independence Day
ACTON, Mass. — The India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) moved its annual India Day celebration from Boston’s Hatch Shell to NARA Park in Acton this year, drawing a crowd of a few thousand people for a day of cultural performances, community activities and celebrations marking India’s 80th Independence Day.
Organizers said they were pleased with the turnout and the response to the new venue, citing easier parking and improved logistics for families, performers and participating organizations. IAGB said attendance reached approximately 4,000 during the day.
The main celebration, India Day 2026 — “Colors of India,” was held August 15 at the NARA Park Amphitheater. More than 200 performers took part in music, dance and other cultural presentations, while more than 40 New England organizations participated in the event.
IAGB President Nilesh Agrawal said the event was among the organization’s strongest community gatherings in recent years.
“The energy, the performances, the unity — it all reflects the strength of our community and the dedication of our volunteers and partners,” Agrawal said.
The event featured Raghuram S., Consul General of India in Boston, as chief guest and Anu Chitrapu, senior vice president and technology executive at Bank of America, as guest of honor. Both addressed attendees during the formal program.
New venue brings logistical changes
The move to NARA Park represented a significant change for IAGB, which has traditionally held its major India Day celebration at Boston’s Hatch Shell.
IAGB Vice President Deepak Garg said the new location provided additional parking and improved event logistics.
“The move to NARA Park proved to be a major success,” Garg said. “The improved logistics and parking convenience made a noticeable difference for attendees.”
The outdoor festival included community booths, food vendors, interactive games, Kahoot trivia and raffle drawings. A 35,000-watt sound system supported the day’s performances.
Apna Bazar Farmers Market served as grand sponsor, while Craft Indian Kitchen was the official food partner. The program ended with a DJ performance by Xtreme Productions and a flash mob led by Swasti Bhargava.
Cricket tournament added to celebration
IAGB also introduced a Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament on the morning of August 15 at NARA Park and Macpherson Field.
Teams competed for championship honors, with awards presented for champion, runner-up, best batter and best bowler. Participants also received commemorative T-shirts.
The organization incorporated youth recognition into the day’s formal program as well. Two graduating high school seniors received $500 Senior Scholarship Awards, supported by the Kapasi Family Foundation, for essays addressing the theme “Colors of India — Stories That Inspire.”
Massachusetts recognizes India Day
The 2026 celebration also received recognition from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Gov. Maura Healey issued a proclamation designating August 15, 2026, as India Day in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts State Senate also issued a citation through Sen. Jamie Eldridge recognizing IAGB and the Indian-American community for their contributions to the Greater Boston region.
The India Day festivities extended beyond the main event. During the month, IAGB organized flag-raising ceremonies in Westford, Burlington, Acton, Sharon and Andover, bringing together elected officials, community leaders and residents.
IAGB, founded in 1962, promotes Indian culture and community engagement through cultural, educational and civic programs and activities intended to strengthen ties between the Indian-American community and the broader region.
