The vibrant colors, enchanting music, and spirited dances of Nepal filled the streets of Manhattan today as the Nepali community gathered to celebrate their annual Nepal Day Parade. Held on Sunday, May 19th, this year’s event marked a continuation of a tradition that began in 2016, showcasing the rich tapestry of Nepali heritage.
The parade commenced at the intersection of 38th Street and Madison Avenue, winding its way through the heart of New York City and concluding with a festive program at 24th Street. Organized by the NRNA New York Chapter, the parade received support from the Consulate General of Nepal in New York and NRNA USA, alongside collaborations with various local Nepali organizations.
Majority Leader Senator Chuck Schumer, who participated in the parade, praised the Nepali community in the USA. Schumer said, “You are the American dream. You came here from far away to make a better life for yourself and your children. The Nepalese people are hardworking. The Nepalese people are law -abiding. The Nepalese people start little businesses and employ Americans and other Nepalese people. You respect your elders. You want a better life for your children. What could be a better community than that?”
He continued, “Not only are you all of these great American values, hardworking people, but you are the nicest people I’ve ever met. The Nepalese are a gentle people, a kind people, a caring people, a loving people. So you combine all these great things, hard work, success, caring about the parents, caring about the children, but you’re always doing it with a smile. So I love you as you remember when you needed TPS, so many people were hurt in the destruction, in the earthquake. Who got you TPS? Chuck Schumer! Who is trying to make the immigration laws law -abiding immigration laws so we can have more Nepalese in this country legally? (Crowd cheers, “Chuck Schumer!”) And who believes in you? (Crowd cheers, “Chuck Schumer!”) So thank you very much. It is great to be here and I wish this community the very best.”
Senator Schumer also spoke a few words in Nepali langauge.
NYC Mayor Eric Adams expressed his excitement for the future of the city and the Nepali community. Mayor Adams said, “It’s great to be here, great to march with the Nepali community. I’m excited about the future of the city and the future of this great community.”
NY Assemblymember Steven Raga, who represents the growing Nepali population in his area, announced the inaugural celebration of Nepali Community Day in Albany, a testament to the community’s expanding influence. He said, “We have such a growing, larger, and exciting Nepali community. I am proud to represent the Nepali community. You are such a diverse group, proud of your culture. It’s so great to come here and support Nepal Day and the growing Nepali community. I am proud and honored to represent you.”
Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams joined the Nepali American community for a moment of unity and celebration at the Nepal Day Parade in New York City. Photo credit: Office of the Public Advocate.
Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams of the City of New York said, ‘It was amazing to extend greetings of peace, blessings, love, and light to the Nepali American community during the annual Nepal Day Parade. Celebrating the vibrancy and diversity within New York City not only strengthens our communities but also brings us together in meaningful ways.’
Nabaraj KC, a member of the Asian Affairs Advisory Council for the Mayor of New York City, highlighted the parade’s significance as a symbol of pride.
Consul Ms. Bishnu Kumari Adhikari and Vice Consul Sangita Neupane represented the Consulate General of Nepal – New York, USA. Dr. Arjun Banjade, President of NRNA USA, along with General Secretary Ramhari Adhikari, Former President of NRNA USA Khagendra GC, NRNA New York Chapter President Hemanth Malla, NRNA New York Chapter Vice President Tshiring Sherpa, NRNA New York Chapter Woman Vice President Laxmi Thapa, NRNA New York Chapter Secretary Raju Tamang, and NRNA New York Chapter Former President Ang Tshiring Sherpa, emphasized the parade’s role in revitalizing the Nepali language and culture for future generations. The increased participation since the parade’s inception was celebrated as a milestone for the community’s visibility and unity.
They said, “This Nepal Day Parade is a historic moment for the Nepali community and a matter of great pride. The increased participation since 2016 signifies the best opportunity for the revival of the Nepali language and culture, allowing us to teach and transfer it to the new generation. The Nepal Day Parade is a matter of national pride and self-respect for all Nepalis living outside the country.”
Deepak Pariyar
View More PostsJournalist Deepak Pariyar is the editor of Khasokhas, a publication amplifying the voices of the Nepali diaspora in the USA since 2012. A champion against discrimination, he has held leadership roles in journalist organizations.
