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Querbes Avenue in Park Extension was the epicenter on Aug. 15 for a joyful celebration marking the 63rd anniversary of Indian independence. That’s when the India Canada Organization held its 8th annual India Unity Day Parade.
One of the big parades
On Aug. 15, 1947, after a long struggle to free itself of Britain, India gained independence. Less than three years later, the Republic of India was declared and a distinct constitution came into effect. In terms of celebratory marches held each year in Park Extension, the India Unity Day Parade must surely rank as one of the Big Two, along with the Greek Independence Day Parade.
While it’s often said of St. Patrick’s Day held in March that “everybody is Irish” for the occasion, you would have been hard-pressed to find anyone at all, regardless of nationality, taking in the India Unity Day Parade this year who wasn’t getting into the spirit of celebrating one of the world’s great emerging nations. In Park Ex, everybody is Indian when they take part in the India Independence Day Parade.
Six-block parade
The ICO takes great pride in the fact the India Unity Day Parade unites a vast diaspora of peoples from many regions in South Asia. Starting at the corner of Querbes and Ogilvy, colourful floats, exotic musicians and beautifully costumed dancers made their way six blocks northward to Howard Park, which was the gathering point for dignitaries’ speeches as well as singing and folk dancing on stage late into the evening.
The parade was launched in 2003, with former Liberal leader Paul Martin being one of the first patrons of honour. The list of dignitaries this year included Papineau Liberal MP Justin Trudeau, Park Extension city councillor Mary Deros and Villeray/St-Michel/Park Extension Borough Mayor Anie Samson.
Common cause: Deros
“This is one of the few communities where all the associations unite for this common cause,” said Mary. “They show strength and unity and I’m very proud of them all.” As India is the second-most populous country in the world with 1.18 billion citizens, it’s fitting that at least six community organizations in Park Extension represent the interests of people of Indian origin.
“This is always a big party and very peaceful at the same time,” said the borough mayor, who was riding in the back of an open convertible with young Mimi Das, who was dressed up for the role of Mother India, with Katy Adhikary acting as chaperone.
Justin and son
“There are a lot of people and lot of families here today and this is very positive that everyone can share these moments together.” Papineau Liberal MP Justin Trudeau was riding in another car with his young son, Xavier, and Outremont Liberal candidate Martin Cauchon. “It’s just a tremendous celebration of the richness and the energy of these citizens,” Justin told NPEN.
