"Many years ago we made a tryst with destiny, and now the time comes when we shall redeem our pledge, not wholly or in full measure, but very substantially."

"At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, then an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance. It is fitting that at this solemn moment we take the pledge of dedication to India and her People and to the still larger cause of humanity."

This statement by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru marked the beginning of a new and independent India on August 15, 1947, after over 300 years of British rule which started with the establishment of the British East India Company in 1600 A.D. Today, India comprises 25 states and 7 union territories and is the largest democracy in the world. The momentous day of independence is celebrated jubilantly not only in India, but also all over the world wherever people from India can be found. Chicago is no exception, boasting a Indo-Pak community of over 500,000, according to the latest census. The community in Chicago has been celebrating India's independence for many years, including parades and celebrations.

This year marks the 54th anniversary of India's independence, and not to disappoint, on August 18, 2001, the Chicago community came out in full force to celebrate this occasion. It culminated with the annual India Independence Day Parade on world famous Devon Avenue, organized by the Federation of Indian Associations. Though the day was overcast and ground wet, the spirits of the Indian community could not be dampened. Hundreds lined the street to watch as float after float passed, all decorated with the tri-color and representing the diversity and accomplishments of the community. Besides all the pomp and pageantry associated with the parade, the day was highlighted by the presence of celebrities, politicians, and key members of the community. Some of those present included, Indian film star Chunkey Pandey, Illinois governor candidate Paul Vallas, and representation from Alderman Berny Stone and Secretary of State Jesse White.

Here are some of the pictures from that day, showing just another way of how DevonAvenue.com is dedicated to Chicago's Indo-Pak community.