Nationhood, it is said, is part fiction and part reality. This is confirmed by the spirit and gusto with which expatriate American community, living in the City, is getting ready to celebrate the American Independence Day on July 4.
The sizeable American population in the City is all set to usher in another American Independence Day, in ways that are more American than can be done back home. Song, dance and of course, friends will be the staple of their celebrations in Bangalore.
The Indo-American Chamber of Commerce and various expat networks are all set to celebrate the independence day in true American style. And what's interesting is that they've invited their Indian friends to join in the celebrations, just to add a desi twist
to it.
For Elizabeth Bowden David, a hotelier, July 4 is a patriotic holiday and is all about summer time fun. Elizabeth points out that back in the United States, it's summer time and people love to be outside in the fresh air.
"A perfect celebration would be to grill outdoors with family and friends, enjoy an ice-cold beer, churn some homemade ice cream, and swim." Elizabeth is throwing a big bash for all her friends at her restaurant 'Habanero' in Whitefield on July 4.
"I always feel odd to send my children to school on July 4, as if it was just any other day. I try to make it special by making the breakfast table festive by using flag colours - red, white, and blue - and by talking to them a bit about the history of the American Revolution," she says and adds, "we'll be dressed in red, blue and white. On the menu will be traditional burgers, grilled meats and fish, and grilled veg entrees. There will be a live band playing only American music."
Ema Trinidad, who heads the Expat Entrepreneurs Circle, which has several American members, is not an American but has lived in America for a long time and she is organising a celebration for her American friends in the City.
"We get together quite often. Getting good meat to make authentic American food is a challenge for any expat. So when we have get togethers, we make sure there is everything an expat would love, from music, food to beverages," explains Ema, who's looking forward to jamming up with her friends on July 4.
Andrew Thomas is single and works for an IT company. He feels living away from home on American Independence Day isn't as much fun as it would have been back home.
"Fireworks, barbecue, road trips with friends and a get together with family typically mark all American Independence Day celebrations. Here, we have a holiday so I think I will just hang out with a couple of friends and indulge in some good food."
LeeAnn Deemer and Pete Deemer have been living in the City for a while now. LeeAnn says they usually spend the day together with family and friends.
"Barbecues, picnics and outdoor cookout of grilled meats and vegetables. Hotdogs, burgers, fresh corn on the cob, potato salad, and baked beans are the traditional July 4 picnic food. Homes and public spaces are decorated with American flags and red, white and blue bunting. Many people also get fireworks to set off on their own, in addition to the more elaborate professional display. No celebration is complete without fireworks," says LeeAnn.