The beautiful Deepika Padukone would be leading as a Grand Marshal at 28th India Day Parade in New York to celebrate India's 61st Independence Day on 17th August.
Organised by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), the parade begins from Madison Avenue in Manhattan, culminating at a venue where cultural and entertainment programmes are held.
The parade, biggest celebration of India's independence outside India, attracts around 50,000 people.
FIA President Yash Paul Soi said at a kick-off meeting Tuesday at the Indian consulate in New York that former president APJ Abdul Kalam has also been invited.
Last year, it was Priyanka Chopra , who had the honour of leading the parade while Indian American astronaut Sunita Williams was the Guest of Honour.
Set up in 1981, FIA is a large, influential umbrella organisation of the Indian American community in the Tri-State area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. The parade is organized to project Indian Americans' progress and unity with other communities.
With Deepika leading the parade, there would be many joining it not just for patriotic reasons but also to see the gorgeous beauty sashaying down the Madison Avenue.
The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut is one of the largest and most powerful umbrella organizations in the Indian community. It represents over 300,000 strong and vibrant Asian-Indians who provides significant grass root support. Established in the year 1970 the FTA has blossomed into a commendable organization that has become an effective mouthpiece and mobilizer for the community.
The FIA represents various issues that concern a growing Asian-Indian community at the local, state, and national levels. Over the years, it has also tried to project a truthful and real image of India to the mainstream community and also further the interests of Indians residing in the United States. It is in this spirit that, since 1981, the annual India Day Parade is held in New York City to present our progress and unity to the many diversified ethnic communities in this area.
The ethereal Tribute in Light memorial was designed to help lessen the aching loss felt across the country since 9/11. It is a profound symbol of strength, hope and resiliency.
The New Yankee Stadium
New Yankee Stadium is the working title for a new stadium for the New York Yankees, currently under construction. It will open in 2009, replacing the third-oldest stadium in the Major Leagues.
The Bronx
In popular culture 'The Bronx' has often symbolized violence, decay, and urban ruin. In fact, there are guidebooks that say you must never go to the Bronx! Sheer ignorance, that is all we have to say! Interactive Bronx map
August 17, 2008 
Interactive Bronx map
