Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square Bursts with Colour and Culture at India Day 2025 Parade & Festival
TORONTO, ONTARIO – August 20, 2025 — The heart of downtown Toronto was transformed into a vibrant mosaic of sights, sounds, and flavours this past weekend as thousands gathered at Nathan Phillips Square for Panorama India’s signature India Day 2025 Parade & Festival. Despite forecasts of thunderstorms, the skies could not dampen the spirit of the crowds who came together to celebrate India’s 78th Independence Day and honour the theme of “Unity in Diversity.”
The festivities began with a powerful opening ceremony that saw the unfurling of the largest Indian flag in Canada. This was followed by a moving joint rendition of the Canadian and Indian national anthems, performed by a choir of 150 children. In a moment that resonated deeply with the theme, the children also debuted an original Unity in Diversity song, specially composed by Panorama India for the occasion.
The event was graced by a distinguished roster of guests, including the Acting Consul General of India in Toronto, Mr. Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow. They were joined by MPP Deepak Anand and representatives from the OPP, Toronto Police, and the veterans’ community. Leaders highlighted the deep and enduring friendship between Canada and India, underscoring shared values of democracy, multiculturalism, and the significant contributions of the Indo-Canadian community.
The grand parade was the centerpiece of the festival and a spectacle of cultural splendor. Leading the procession were the illustrious Parade Marshals: Bollywood and Hindustani classical singer Sharayu Date, along with international beauty titleholders including Mrs. Globe Curve, Mrs. Earth 2025, Mrs. Canada World 1st Runner-Up, and Ms. North America World Universal. Their presence added glamour and energy to the dazzling floats that followed.
Each of the 28 states of India was represented by a unique float, each a testament to the nation’s diverse heritage, brimming with traditional music, dance, and artistry. Marching alongside them, Indo-Canadian organizations carried banners, flags, and chants of “Unity in Diversity,” filling the downtown streets with pride and celebration. Attendees enjoyed a full day of live cultural performances, diverse food stalls, and interactive activities that celebrated India’s rich heritage while beautifully showcasing Toronto’s multicultural spirit.
“Panorama India is proud to unite the community on a cultural platform where our heritage, art, and traditions shine,” said Ms. Vaidehi Raut, Chairperson of Panorama India. “India Day 2025 proved once again that unity in diversity is more than just a theme—it’s a lived reality in Toronto, and our diversity is our strength.”
This year’s festival was made possible through the generous support of the Consulate General of India in Toronto, the City of Toronto, and the Toronto Police. TD Canada Trust served as the premium sponsor, with pivotal support also provided by corporate partners including SBI Canada, ICICI Bank, MTR, and Maharaja Bhog.
Founded in 1999, Panorama India continues to serve as a not-for-profit umbrella organization that brings together Indo-Canadian groups to celebrate culture, strengthen community bonds, and foster stronger Canada–India relations.
Jai Hind!
For photos, videos, and highlights, visit: www.panoramaindia.org
Photo by Nisarg Media Productions
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