Thousands of Indian Americans participated in the India Day Parade in Edison

Thousands of Indian Americans participated in the India Day Parade in Edison - also called Little India - in New Jersey this weekend. Celebrated Bollywood actress, model and television presenter, Mandira Bedi wad leading the mile-long parade along the Oak Tree Road, which over the past one decade has emerged as the hub of Indian American community in New Jersey.

Now a permanent feature of New Jersey cultural milieu, the parade is held every year by Indian Business Association in association with scores of other Indian American organisations, to celebrate India's Independence Day. Normally it is held over the weekend around August 15 so as to facilitate maximum attendance. Last year, the State Governor Jon Corzine and his Republican challenger Chris Christie made surprise visit and appearance during the parade in an effort to woo the Indian American community in their favour.

The Indian American community in New Jersey has been a traditional supporter of the Democratic Party. Founded in 1990s, the Indian Business Association is the oldest and largest Indo-American Association serving the Edison and Woodbridge area of New Jersey. The Association hosts the annual Official New Jersey India Day Parade each August. The association is also responsible for public projects and credited with major political reforms in Edison and Woodbridge areas.