A proud moment for India on the global stage! On August 17, 2025, Telugu superstars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna were honored as the Grand Marshals at the 43rd India Day Parade in New York City, celebrating Indian culture and independence with immense style and grace. The duo’s rising global influence was on full display as they led the festivities, igniting excitement among the Indian diaspora and fans worldwide.
Vijay, a consistent presence on Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list since 2018, and Rashmika, who earned a spot in the prestigious 30 Under 30 list in 2024, perfectly embody the new wave of Indian cinema stars gaining international recognition. Their chemistry, both on and off screen, especially since the blockbuster Geetha Govindam (2018), only added to their appeal and made them ideal choices for this cultural celebration.
The India Day Parade, organized by the Federation of Indian Associations, marks a vibrant occasion to honor India’s heritage and its 78th Independence Day. By appointing two of Telugu cinema’s brightest stars as Grand Marshals, the event highlighted the power of celebrity in amplifying cultural pride and drawing attention on a global platform.
Studies have shown that having high-profile ambassadors like Vijay and Rashmika can increase event attendance by 15-20%, and this parade was no exception. Their presence energized the crowd and garnered widespread media coverage, making the celebration even more memorable.
As India’s cultural footprint expands worldwide, stars like Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna are leading the way—showing that Indian cinema’s charm and spirit continue to captivate audiences far beyond its borders.