WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Thousands of Indian Americans gathered at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington on July 25 to celebrate the United States’ upcoming 250th anniversary. The bipartisan event also encouraged greater civic engagement and called on the community to take a stronger role in American politics.
The celebration, titled “America 250th: An Indian American Commemoration,” brought together lawmakers, business leaders, physicians, diplomats, faith leaders and community members. Organizers said the event honored the community’s contributions while celebrating the shared values of democracy, freedom and opportunity. At the same time, speakers stressed the importance of unity as the nation prepares for its semiquincentennial in 2026.
The Indian American Committee organized the event with support from several national organizations, including the U.S. India Security Leadership Council, Indian American Impact, the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, the Asian American Hotel Owners Association, TiE, the American India Foundation and the Hindu American Foundation. Together, the groups highlighted the growing influence of Indian Americans across the country.
Several prominent Indian American leaders addressed the audience during the program. U.S. Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois and Shri Thanedar of Michigan urged more members of the community to enter public service. They encouraged Indian Americans to run for local, state and federal office so their voices can play a larger role in shaping public policy.
Thanedar said the country needs more Indian Americans in elected office at every level of government. He also condemned anti-immigrant rhetoric and called for greater recognition of immigrants’ contributions to the United States. According to him, communities should reject hate and continue to strengthen the nation’s democratic values.
Meanwhile, Krishnamoorthi shared a personal experience about facing calls for his deportation. However, he said such attacks would not silence the Indian American community. He said Indian Americans remain an important part of the nation’s social and economic fabric. He also pledged to continue speaking against anti-India, anti-Hindu and anti-immigrant sentiment.
In addition, Krishnamoorthi highlighted the community’s economic impact. He said Indian Americans make up about 10% of physicians in the United States and own nearly 60% of the nation’s hotels and motels. Therefore, he argued that stronger political representation should match the community’s growing influence.
The event also featured several distinguished guests. Arjun Mody, deputy commissioner of the U.S. Social Security Administration, and Ashok Pinto, former assistant secretary for global markets at the Department of Commerce, addressed attendees. Former deputy counsel to President Donald Trump Uttam Dhillon also participated in the program.
Moreover, spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar delivered recorded remarks, while former American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty joined the event. Grammy Award-winning singer Falguni Shah added a cultural element to the celebration. Their participation reflected the diversity and achievements of the Indian American community.
Ramesh V. Kapur, co-chair of the America 250 Indian American Commemorative Celebration and president of the U.S. India Security Leadership Council, said the event focused on bringing people together instead of promoting political divisions. He said the nation’s 250th anniversary belongs to every American regardless of political affiliation. He added that Indian Americans remain grateful for the freedoms and opportunities they enjoy in the United States.
Furthermore, organizers said the celebration recognized Indian Americans for their contributions to business, medicine, education, technology, entrepreneurship and public service. They noted that the community continues to expand its role in civic life while strengthening its connection with broader American society.
Community leaders also said greater political participation has become increasingly important as the Indian American population continues to grow. They argued that stronger representation can help address issues such as immigration policy, civil rights and religious freedom. In addition, they encouraged younger generations to become more involved in public service and community leadership.
As the United States moves closer to its 250th anniversary, organizers said they hope similar events will inspire communities across the nation. They believe such celebrations can promote unity, encourage civic engagement and recognize the achievements of Americans from every background. For many attendees, the Washington gathering celebrated both the country’s history and the shared values that continue to shape its future.
