A Colorful Celebration of South Asian Heritage, Culture and Community
By Husneara Choudhury , New York:
For the first time in New York, the South Asian Unity Parade 2026 was held on August 9 in Jackson Heights, bringing together South Asian communities in a vibrant celebration of culture, heritage, diversity and unity. Bangladesh received special recognition as the Host Country of the inaugural event.
The colorful parade took place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. along 37th Avenue between 69th Street and 87th Street in Jackson Heights. The streets came alive with national flags, traditional attire, music, cultural performances and enthusiastic participation from members of communities representing different South Asian countries.
The parade was led by Shah M. Nawaz, MBA, who served as the CIP and Grand Marshal. Among the distinguished guests and organizers were Attorney Moin Chowdhury, Chief Adviser Mohammad Kader, Cultural Affairs Chairperson Rano Amena Nawaz, Chief Coordinator Shah Shahidul Haque, Member Secretary Mohammad Alam Nomi, and organizer Shakil Mia.
Also in attendance were writer and journalist Shah J. Chowdhury, Jalalabad Association leaders Moynu Zaman Chowdhury and Nurul Azim, Bangladesh Society President Ataur Rahman Selim, General Secretary Mohammad Ali, Vice President Kamrul Islam, and other prominent community leaders.
Leaders and representatives from various South Asian communities associated with the South Asian Unity Parade also participated, along with representatives from different sectors of the Bangladeshi-American community.
Adding star power to the celebration were Bangladeshi film and television actresses Shirin Shila and Safa Kabir, along with renowned artists and cultural performers from the community. The program was hosted by Sonia.
The parade drew spontaneous participation from people of all ages, from children to seniors, creating a festive atmosphere throughout Jackson Heights. The energy, cultural performances and community spirit reflected the richness and diversity of South Asian heritage.
The inaugural South Asian Unity Parade 2026 ultimately became more than a cultural procession—it served as a powerful expression of unity, diversity, friendship and cultural pride, bringing South Asian communities together in the heart of New York City.
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