HB Tamrakar,New York City, May 21, 2025 — A historic moment unfolded in the heart of Manhattan as the New York Police Department (NYPD) raised the Nepalese national flag for the first time in American history during the 7th Nepal Day Parade, a vibrant celebration of Nepalese culture and unity.
The annual parade, held in New York City since 2016, was organized by the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), New York Chapter, in collaboration with numerous local Nepali organizations. The 2025 edition marked a milestone not only for the diaspora but also in the annals of NYPD history.
The event was inaugurated by New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, alongside other local elected officials and dignitaries. The streets of New York came alive with the rhythmic beats of Nepali music, the energy of traditional dances, and the vivid colors of ethnic costumes proudly worn by participants representing communities from Mechi to Mahakali.
Among the parade highlights was the participation of Guinness World Record-holding athlete Dinesh Sunar (Parkour), who joined other prominent Nepali artists, musicians, and athletes in showcasing the cultural richness of Nepal.
However, the most defining moment of the celebration came when the NYPD joined the parade, not only with its Color Guard and police vehicle but also by raising the Nepalese national flag—a gesture of profound respect and recognition. Founded on May 23, 1845, the NYPD’s participation in this year’s parade marked the first time in its 180-year history that it officially embraced the Nepali flag during a public event.
This unprecedented inclusion was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Sonam Ghising Lama, President of the Nepalese Law Enforcement Association, and Neil Narayan, President of the NYPD Desi Society. Their collaboration ensured this event would go down as a milestone in the story of Nepali-American relations and representation in the United States.
The Nepal Day Parade saw a significant turnout of Nepalis and Americans of Nepali descent from all 50 U.S. states. Participants carried banners of various community organizations, danced in the streets, and celebrated their shared identity and culture. The parade served as a platform to promote unity, patriotism, and national pride, as well as to encourage tourism to Nepal by highlighting its breathtaking destinations and unique cultural heritage.
This year, the event was led by Convener Manita Gurung, while Tshering Sherpa Thakthok served as President of the organizing committee. Their leadership, along with the support of numerous volunteers, helped ensure the success of this symbolic event.
The Nepal Day Parade continues to be a cornerstone for the Nepalese diaspora, serving as a vibrant tribute to Nepal’s history, diversity, and the growing influence of Nepali heritage on the global stage. With the inclusion of the NYPD and growing mainstream recognition, 2025’s edition will be remembered as a turning point in Nepal-America cultural diplomacy and diaspora engagement.
