The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin–Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT) marked India Day with a major community celebration in Stamford, receiving recognition from Connecticut state and city leaders for its cultural outreach and charitable work.
The Connecticut General Assembly issued a formal citation honoring GOPIO-CT’s celebration of India’s Independence and its efforts to promote Indian culture, traditions and the achievements of Indian Americans. The citation was initiated by Senator Patricia Billie Miller and supported by nine additional state lawmakers. It was signed by General Assembly Pro Tempore Marten M. Looney, House Speaker Matt Ritter and Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas.
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons also issued a proclamation recognizing India’s Independence Day and GOPIO-CT’s contributions to the city. Mayor’s representative Janeene Freeman, Stamford’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, presented the proclamation during the event.
The recognition highlighted GOPIO-CT’s two decades of community service. The organization has supported numerous charitable and civic groups across Connecticut, including organizations focused on education, mentoring, food assistance, refugee services, healthcare and youth development.
The program brought together community leaders, elected officials, representatives of the Indian Consulate and members of the Indian-American community. GOPIO-CT Secretary Mirat Joshi served as master of ceremonies and emphasized the community’s growing role in American science, business, education, arts and public service.
Speakers also highlighted the close people-to-people connection between India and the United States. Joshi described the Indian diaspora as an important bridge between the two democracies, emphasizing connections in business, innovation, culture and education.
GOPIO-CT President Mahesh Jhangiani reflected on India’s independence and described India Day as an opportunity to celebrate Indian-American heritage while recognizing the importance of community service. GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham discussed India’s journey since independence and its development across economic, scientific and social sectors.
The event also highlighted growing Indian-American representation in Connecticut politics. Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, the state’s first Indian-American and first South Asian woman senator, spoke about greater representation in public life. She also pointed to developments such as Connecticut’s recognition of Diwali and the establishment of a Connecticut-India Trade Commission.
The organization presented its 2026 Liberty Award to Prachi Narayan for her longstanding volunteer service and community leadership. Narayan was also recognized for founding Kaashi, a company supporting artisans and weavers from her hometown of Banaras in India.
The celebration continued at Stamford’s Mill River Park with an India Day Festival featuring more than 40 performers. Visitors enjoyed Indian classical and folk dances, Bollywood performances, music, food, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, and kite flying.
GOPIO-CT also recognized high school graduates from Fairfield County, celebrating the next generation of Indian Americans.
Now marking two decades of activity, GOPIO-CT continues to operate as a nonpartisan civic and community organization focused on cultural awareness, youth engagement, charitable service and stronger relationships between Indian Americans and the wider Connecticut community.
