Thousands of attendees gathered at the Birmingham High school in Lake Balboa, Los Angeles to celebrate the 72nd Independence of India on August 25, 2018. The India Association of Los Angeles (IALA) had made a grand mela on the school grounds with booths around the stage which showcased various classical, modern and fusion Indian dances.
The IALA executive committee and board of directors welcomed Rep. Brad Sherman R-Sherman Oaks and Sri Lanka Consul General Hon. Swarna Gunaratne during the formal program.
“Independence day serves as a reminder of the great sacrifices made by many freedom fighters, It is a day to remember who fought for freedom and who gave up their lives to free India from British rule” said Gunaratna “India and Sri Lanka share common values and traditions, similar trajectory in International trade and common commitments to democracy ” she went on to say.
Congressman Sherman meanwhile thanked the Indian American community for their contributions to the United States and said “The alliance between the United States and India is an alliance between the world’s largest democracy and the world’s largest democracy together we can bring democracy to the entire world.
Everyone enjoyed a day of Indian dance, culture, and delicious cuisine.
