It's that time of year again. India's Independence Day celebrations are taking place all over both India and America. The Empire State Building is showcasing the colors of India, and parades are taking place in Chicago, New Jersey, and New York.

I am a member of an organization called the India Foundation of Metropolitan Princeton. Members of this organization share Indian culture and traditions by singing at nursing homes and donating to many causes, such as creating schools or making it possible for less fortunate people to get eye treatments.

I feel lucky to be patriotic for both my nations, and it brings out the cheer in me every year before school starts. I feel rejuvenated and ready. The celebrations end with one of the largest celebrations outside of India in New York City.

Being Indian and growing up in America has been a great experience for me. There is a very rich cultural background that I can explore due to my Indian heritage. Independence Day is very important because it helped solidify India as its own nation.

Member Anon of the India Foundation of Metropolitan Princeton comments that "being an Indian that resides in America, it is important to have patriotism for the country for which you dedicate a majority of your culture and heritage to. While the experience and relation to culture is different for everybody, but retaining respect for India through knowledge of culture, religion, festivals and interactions with other Indians is important. Independence Day helps us realize that we have been able to do that."

The India Day Parade is a way for people to celebrate India and its independence. There are many things to expect at the parade. There could be floats and special performances about India. The floats show how different cultures come together to unite us as one country. They will tell us all the different cultures and how they make a difference in India. It’s not just a parade to celebrate India’s independence. The parade will celebrate all the diversity of cultures India has. The parade will be a day to remember for everyone.