Thu Aug 21 03:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

San Jose, California, transformed into a vibrant celebration of Indian culture as the Association of Indo Americans (AIA) hosted “Swades 2025” in partnership with Bolly 92.3 to commemorate India’s 79th Independence Day. The event drew over 25,000 attendees and featured a grand parade showcasing Indian states’ cultural richness, a flag-hoisting ceremony led by actress Ameesha Patel and other dignitaries, performances, food stalls, and concluded with a fireworks display. The AIA also announced their upcoming Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka event.

**News Article:**

**Silicon Valley Celebrates India’s Independence Day with Massive ‘Swades 2025’ Festival**

*Washington, August 19, 2025* – San Jose, California, pulsated with Indian pride as the Association of Indo Americans (AIA), in collaboration with Bolly 92.3, hosted the spectacular “Swades 2025” festival celebrating India’s 79th Independence Day. The event, drawing an estimated 25,000 attendees, solidified its position as one of the largest Indian American gatherings in Silicon Valley.

The centerpiece of the day was the grand India Parade, featuring over 75 floats from more than 50 community organizations. Each float vibrantly represented the diverse cultures of India’s states, from classical dances to depictions of traditional epics.

The ceremonial flag-hoisting was a star-studded affair, led by Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel, Founder of Earth Cleanse Srikanth Bolla, and Deputy Consul General of India in San Francisco, Rakesh Adlakha. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan praised the AIA, recognizing the event as a growing tradition fostering cultural exchange and community spirit.

The celebrations continued late into the night with a cultural showcase, a live concert, and a Dhol-Tasha performance, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display over the San Jose skyline.

Attendees enjoyed regional delicacies, handicrafts, and traditional games throughout the day. The AIA used the opportunity to announce their next major event, the Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka, scheduled for October.

“Swades has become more than just a parade for the Bay Area’s Indian diaspora,” said an AIA spokesperson. “It’s a vibrant reminder of our roots, a platform for our youth to embrace their culture, and a bridge of friendship with the wider American community.”

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