From Maharashtra to New York: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy Takes Centre Stage at India Day Parade

New York, 18th August 2026: A grand tableau showcasing the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was presented by the Chhatrapati Foundation during the India Day Parade held on Madison Avenue in New York on August 16 to mark India’s Independence Day.

The Keertirath, featuring depictions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Jijau, Bal Shivaji and the Mavalas, became a major attraction during the parade. More than 100 participants from across the United States took part in presenting Maharashtra’s history, culture and folk traditions to the large gathering.

Children, women and young people portrayed historical characters through traditional costumes and performances, bringing scenes from Maharashtra’s history to life. The presentation also featured traditional folk arts, music, dance and the energetic beats of dhol-tasha.

More than 50 members of the Jallosh Dhol-Tasha Pathak accompanied the Keertirath, filling the streets of New York with traditional Maharashtrian rhythms. Members of the internationally known Rudra Dance Group performed several folk dances, while young women from Livingston’s Raja Group presented a lezim performance that drew appreciation from spectators gathered along Madison Avenue.

The event was supported by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and the International Marathi Forum under the Marathi Language Department of the Maharashtra government.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul was the Grand Marshal of the India Day Parade. During the event, she highlighted the contribution of the Indian-American community to New York’s development.

US Congressman Shri Thanedar from Michigan was present throughout the parade as a special guest on the Keertirath. He greeted the large crowd gathered on both sides of the road and later watched the parade from the main stage.

Reflecting on his participation, Thanedar said he had also attended the parade last year and was deeply moved by the display of Indian culture and history and the enthusiastic participation of younger generations. He said he had particularly looked forward to attending the parade again this year.

Thanedar described Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as an outstanding strategist and said his qualities, sense of justice and entrepreneurial spirit remain relevant and inspiring. He encouraged young people to learn from Shivaji Maharaj’s life and praised the Chhatrapati Foundation for working to promote these values.

New Hampshire State Representative Santosh Salvi was also present as a special guest.

India’s Deputy Consul General in New York, Vishal Harsh, and Consul Rajlaxmi Kadam expressed their hope of further strengthening their cooperation with the Chhatrapati Foundation, according to the foundation.

The parade also witnessed participation from a large number of local Americans and people from different countries, alongside members of the Indian community. Spectators congratulated participants on India’s Independence Day and appreciated the dhol-tasha performances, music, traditional attire, dances and historical presentation.

Industry and Career Discussion
A separate industry and career discussion was organised with the participation of around 20 founders, CEOs and CTOs from hospitality and IT companies associated with the Chhatrapati Foundation. Congressman Thanedar and Representative Santosh Salvi also participated in the discussion.

Both representatives shared their experiences of starting their journeys in Maharashtra, moving to the United States and eventually establishing businesses there. They congratulated members of the Chhatrapati Foundation whose companies have created hundreds of employment opportunities.

Thanedar and Salvi also expressed their willingness to contribute their time and resources to support young people seeking opportunities in entrepreneurship, according to the foundation.

The discussion also focused on concerns faced by Marathi and Indian professionals and students in the US, particularly changes in visa policies and the impact of artificial intelligence on employment. Members highlighted concerns among students who have taken educational loans and are uncertain about their future employment prospects. IT industry leaders participating in the discussion offered guidance and discussed possible avenues of support.

With thousands of Indian and American citizens participating in the celebrations, Madison Avenue witnessed a vibrant display of Indian and particularly Maharashtrian culture.

The Chhatrapati Foundation, New York, has been organising cultural initiatives in the city for the past 15 years, largely led by students and young people. Its activities include celebrations of Shiv Jayanti, Jijau Jayanti, Ahilyadevi Jayanti and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti. Earlier this year, the foundation also organised a Shiv Jayanti programme at the Indian Consulate in New York.

The annual India Day Parade is organised by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA). According to the Chhatrapati Foundation, members from 10 states worked extensively to organise and present its Keertirath at this year’s parade.