Independence Day, India-style

Three generations with roots in India celebrated that country's 59th year of independence Sunday with music, performances and food.

Children danced on a large stage to traditional Indian music and performed plays from Indian literature at the Omni Auditorium on Broward Community College's north campus. At least 2,000 people showed up as dozens of Indian groups staffed booths with information on India's heritage, business and religions.

"This is one of the few events all Indians celebrate, regardless of religion or background," said Lakshmi Subrahmanian, past president of the Association of Indians in America's South Florida chapter. "This unites us. Everybody's wearing the colors of the flag. You show your spirit."

The celebration also showcased India's religious diversity.

Zoroastrians, for example, celebrated their new year Sunday. Under their 3,000-year-old calendar, Sunday marked the year 1376 since the last Zoroastrian king of Iran.

The Sikh Society of South Florida and the Jago Sikh Young Professionals also had a booth with information about their religion. Sheena Wadhwa said both groups are trying to better educate the public about Sikhism.

"In France, there's a ban on the turbans, all religious head coverings," Wadhwa said. "It comes from a lack of understanding."

The most popular booths at the celebration featured food. The smells coming from outside the auditorium snared even the most health-conscious.

"Health-wise, I would rather not eat fried food," said Boca Raton resident Niru Chauhan, laughing. She had just finished chole bhautra, a dish consisting of garbanzo beans, potatoes and gravy served with deep-fried bread. "But it's so good, you just can't go without."

For Shailesh Shah, the best part of Sunday's celebration was seeing the children so involved.

"There are so many youth groups showing Indian culture," said Shah, of Palm Beach Gardens. "We want our youth to learn Indian culture and Western culture and get the best of both."