DULUTH, Ga. (Diya TV) — Thousands of Indian Americans and Georgia residents gathered Sunday at the Gas South Center in Duluth for the 29th Annual Festival of India. The event, organized by the India American Cultural Association (IACA), marked India’s Independence Day and highlighted the growing influence of the Indian community in Georgia.
Governor Brian Kemp sent a video message praising Indian Americans for their contributions to the state. “Georgia’s Indian American community has made great contributions to our state, strengthening our social, economic, and cultural fabric,” he said. “As we mark this occasion, we also celebrate the relationship between our nation and the ties we share with India.”
The day-long festival attracted more than 4,000 attendees. The program combined cultural performances, educational contests, and community service initiatives. For the first time, the event included a flower show, adding beauty and color to the celebration.
Festival-goers participated in a variety of competitions, including chess, drawing, and public speaking. Scholarships were awarded to students for academic achievement and community service. A health fair, a key feature of the festival, offered free screenings and consultations to more than 200 participants.
“The IACA Health Fair 2025 was remarkable, not just for the medical care it provided but for the dedication and compassion of the volunteers,” said Sooryakumar Aparna Thoppan, lead coordinator of the event.
Several Georgia officials attended the festival, recognizing the Indian community’s impact on the state. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger spoke about shared democratic values between the United States and India, emphasizing the community’s role in Georgia’s future. Senator Blake Tillery acknowledged Indian Americans’ contributions while calling for responsible immigration policies.
Local leaders also expressed their support. Alfred John, chairman of the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners, said, “This festival is a time to celebrate all that is India and all that it means to be Indian and of Indian origin.” Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson commended IACA for its “unwavering commitment to our community.”
The cultural program featured over 70 performances, ranging from classical Bharatanatyam and Kathak to Bollywood medleys and folk traditions. Dr. Raktim Sen, the festival’s cultural director, described the event as “an unforgettable celebration of Indian heritage” that brought together music, dance, and art.
Festival attendees also enjoyed food stalls offering regional Indian cuisine and vendors selling clothing, jewelry, and traditional crafts. The flower show, coordinated by Neeta Shenvi, “brought color, vibrancy, and natural beauty to FOI, enhancing the overall atmosphere,” organizers said.
The Festival of India not only celebrated culture but also fostered a sense of inclusion and connection. Attendees said the event provided a chance to learn about Indian traditions and share them with the wider community. By combining entertainment, education, and service, the festival highlighted the multifaceted contributions of Indian Americans in Georgia.
The IACA’s annual festival has grown into a major event in the state, reflecting both the cultural richness of India and the growing presence of its community in Georgia. Organizers hope that future festivals will continue to strengthen ties between residents and Indian Americans while promoting cultural awareness and community service.
