AAPI Celebrates India’s 80th Independence Day, Leading the India Day Parade in New York City

New York City, August 2026 — The Indian tricolor fluttered proudly over Madison Avenue as tens of thousands gathered for the world’s largest India Day Parade. Among the most celebrated participants was the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), whose leaders from across the nation marched at the forefront, symbolizing the strength, service, and unity of the Indian American medical community.

Leading this year’s delegation was Dr. Meher Medavaram, President of AAPI, who extended warm greetings on the occasion of India’s Independence Day.

“On this auspicious occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend my warmest greetings to all members of AAPI,” Dr. Medavaram said as she led dozens of physicians along the parade route. “As we celebrate India’s independence, we are reminded of the sacrifices, struggles, and unwavering spirit that have shaped the world’s largest democracy.”

Addressing the crowds lining Madison Avenue, Dr. Medavaram added: “On behalf of AAPI’s leadership, I wish you and your families a joyous and reflective Independence Day. Let us honor our heritage by contributing to the betterment of society and the world.”

The AAPI float — decorated with vibrant colors, cultural motifs, and messages of health and well‑being — drew enthusiastic applause as it rolled through Manhattan. The bright sun broke through the clouds, illuminating the parade and the pride of the Indian diaspora.

AAPI’s 2026 Leadership Front and Center

AAPI’s current leadership marched in full strength, including: Dr. Meher Medavaram — President; Dr. Vijay Maurya — BOT Chair; Dr. Krishan Kumar, President-Elect; Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Chair, AAPI Global Foundation; Dr. Sunita Polepalle, Trustee; Dr Avinash C Gupta, Trustee; Dr. Uma Jonnalagadda, Trustee; Dr. Pratik Kothari, President of YPS; Dr. Priyanka Kolli, Immediate MSRF President; Several Senior leaders and past presidents; and Young physicians and MSRF members, energizing the parade.

Their presence underscored AAPI’s growing national influence and its role as a unifying force within the Indian American medical community.

The parade was organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), led by Dr. Avinash Gupta, Regional Director of AAPI, whose efforts helped bring together floats showcasing India’s heritage, culture, and global rise.

Leadership Reflections on the Day

Dr. Krishan Kumar, President‑Elect, highlighted the pride shared by Indian American physicians.

“On behalf of over 120,000 physicians of Indian origin in the United States, I convey our greetings to all people of Indian origin,” he said. “Indian Americans continue to make India proud. On this special day, we salute our beloved tricolor and honor the sacrifices of our freedom fighters.”

Dr. Vijay Maurya, BOT Chair, emphasized remembrance and gratitude. “Let us bow our heads in memory of all those brave Jawans and citizens who sacrificed their lives for unity, integrity, and progress,” he said. “AAPI is proud to salute India and its 1.4 billion people on this historic day.”

The Largest India Day Parade

The parade was organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), one of the largest and oldest Indian‑American community organizations on the East Coast. FIA’s leadership consistently included: Ankur Vaidya — Chairman, FIA; and Sreekanth Akkapalli — President, FIA. 

The 2026 India Day Parade in New York was attended by Governor Kathy Hochul, State Senator Jeremy Cooney, and Consul General Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, along with other distinguished guests and community leaders.

AAPI’s Mission and Growing Impact

Dr. Medavaram reminded the diaspora of India’s remarkable journey since 1947. “India’s journey has been one of resilience, progress, and immense pride. As members of the diaspora, we carry our motherland’s legacy in our hearts.”

She emphasized the outsized role of Indian American physicians: “Indian American physicians serve one in seven patients in the United States. Our contributions extend beyond clinical care to education, leadership, and advocacy.”

Dr. Medavaram called upon the community to uphold democratic values shared by India and the United States. “Let us reaffirm our commitment to democracy, freedom, and equality. 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.”

AAPI: A Pillar of the Diaspora

Since its founding in 1982, AAPI has grown into a powerhouse representing over 125,000 physicians of Indian origin. Members have shaped medical education, expanded emergency services in India, led free clinics, and influenced national healthcare policy in the United States.

Serving one in every seven patients, Indian American physicians continue to elevate Indo‑U.S. relations through innovation, leadership, and service. For more details, please visit: www.aapiusa.org