Digital-first float in the streets of New York, makes a larger than life statement by Times Network at FIA’s India Day Parade 2026
Times Network, India’s No.1 broadcast and digital network along with the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), a non-profit organisation representing the Indian-American community, celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day in New York. A vibrant showcase of India’s culture, heritage and traditions, the annual parade brought thousands together as colourful floats made their way through the streets of New York, creating a spectacular celebration of the Indian diaspora — with Times Network bringing its own distinctly digital presence to the occasion. The Network has been closely associated with FIA’s India Day Parade for over a decade. FIA’s Chairman Ankur Vaidya and President Sreekanth Akkapalli have played a pivotal role in strengthening and nurturing the organisation’s longstanding partnership with Times Network.
The 2026 celebration marked a historic milestone as FIA achieved its third Guinness World Record, with more than 1,300 U.S. flags framed by the Indian tricolour to form the number “250”, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States alongside India’s 80th Independence Day.
For Times Network, the parade has evolved into an important platform to deepen its engagement with the Indian diaspora and strengthen its growing presence in the U.S. Moving away from the traditional float, Times Network introduced a digital-first LED float, bringing the energy and visual language of Times Square to the streets of New York. The LED screens on the float became a showcase for the Network’s brands, promos, new launches and its expanding U.S. offerings, including Times Now, Times Now Navbharat, Zoom, ET NOW, Times Now World, Times Play, Pickleball Now and its digital properties under TimesNowNews.com. The parade represents a natural extension of its efforts to take its brands, content and offerings to Indian audiences beyond India. The combination of digital storytelling, live experiences, entertainment and community engagement reflects the Network’s evolving approach to connecting with audiences across geographies.
Started 43 years ago as a celebration of the Indian diaspora, today the celebration has evolved into a vibrant cultural extravaganza, with culture remaining at the heart of the parade and dance serving as one of its most powerful expressions. This year, the celebrations featured performances by dancers from Shivaay, one of the largest Indian dance schools in the U.S., led by Rohan Virdi, founder of Shivaay and a prominent digital creator. Rohan Virdi also delivered a special performance as part of the celebrations. Shivaay’s participation marks its fourth consecutive year of association with Times Network.
With a historic Guinness World Record, a spectacular showcase of Indian culture and a distinctly digital Times Network presence, the 2026 FIA India Day Parade was more than a celebration. It was a powerful reflection of the cultural influence of the Indian diaspora and Times Network’s growing role in connecting its brands, content and experiences with audiences across the globe.