On Sunday, August 4, Acton Town Hall was abuzz with celebration as the community gathered for the flag-raising ceremony commemorating India’s Independence Day. Hosted by Acton Indian Americans and the India Association of Greater Boston, this marked the fifth consecutive year of residents proudly raising the Indian flag alongside the U.S. flag, celebrating India’s liberation from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947.
Acton Select Board members Dean Charter and Fran Arsenault attended the event, as well as Senator Jamie Eldridge, State Representative Simon Cataldo, and Candidate for Governor’s Council Mara Dolan.
On a social media post, Senator Eldridge appreciated Purohit for her organizing and said that the event celebrated “[not only] India’s historic non-violent resistance to British colonization, but the contributions of Indian-Americans in all aspects of Massachusetts society, including industry, healthcare, culture, art and music, government, social justice, the sciences, academia, and climate action…”
Devika Sonavane delivered a moving rendition of the U.S. national anthem and a group of young singers captivated the audience with their performance of the Indian national anthem and a patriotic song.
Acton-Boxborough students Aadya Goel and Dia Prakash emceed the event. Chakra Bokissam managed the sound system, and Acton TV and ABRHS student Mira Moghe captured the event’s highlights. Robbins Mill residents lent canopies which ensured the event would remain joyful and stress-free regardless of the weather.
Sahana Purohit is an Acton resident and involved in many local community boards and committees. She is currently the chair of the Acton Democratic Town Committee, Commissioner on Acton Housing Authority, and on the Discovery Museum Board of Directors. Ms. Purohit organizes the event each year. She said, “As we reflect on the significance of India’s independence, it’s a reminder of the largest democracy’s enduring spirit of freedom and democracy. This celebration not only honors our heritage but also connects the next generation of Indian Americans to their roots, reinforcing a shared legacy of liberty and democracy.”