the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Praket Nigam, a Senior at Ridgewood High School who performed the national anthem A cappella at the Ridgewood 113th annual Fourth of July parade this year, marking his third consecutive performance at this event. Praket also has had the honor of singing the national anthem at the Indian Cultural Society of Rockland’s August 15th India Independence Day parade event for the past two years, a testament to his talent and commitment to cultural harmony.
The honor of performing the national anthem holds special significance. His parents are immigrants themselves, and take immense pride in witnessing their son embrace and honor the culture of their adopted homeland while simultaneously cherishing his roots. This year, he performed in front of the village hall, a repeat of his very first performance back in 2021. In 2022, he offered a stirring rendition at the train station, each time proving his commitment to serving the community through his musical talent.
Praket’s talents are not confined to his melodious renditions of the national anthem. In 8th grade, he was chosen as the best male Bollywood singer in the Tri-State area, a testament to his ability to bridge cultures through music. He was also part of the esteemed Maroon Men and chamber choir of Ridgewood High School, further honing his skills and contributing to the musical tapestry of our community.
Beyond music, Praket is a committed member of the Ridgewood High School Applied Engineering Club’s FireGone team, which has won multiple awards. Their achievements include second place in the Thomas Edison Pitch contest in 2022 and recently the third prize at the NJSTEAM Tank event. These accolades underscore Praket’s diverse set of talents and his passion for innovation.
His dedication to the community was recognized with the NJ Governor’s Youth in Action award for his numerous volunteer initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic. His willingness to lend a hand during these challenging times speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the community.
The Ridgewood blog believes Praket’s story is one of inspiration and hope. It is a testament to the beautiful harmony that arises when cultures blend, and it showcases the potential within our youth to be leaders and ambassadors of such integration.
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Magnificent!
Great. Lucky parents. Much success in the future.
One thing I want to note though is that vast majority of Indian immigrants in RW are very woke inclined. I hope they let the kid develop his own opinions. Kids should be kept away from politics and BS.
Not sure if it’s true but why do you think that is..?
Indians tend to be more conservative (relatively) in this area relative to other ethnic groups…lots of woke whites who think July 4th isn’t worth celebrating…such a Shame.
An unnecessary, inaccurate, biased and political remark that brought division-politics into a celebration of our Diversity & Unity.
Right. It’s about Integration & Diversity & Community & Inclusion & Independence & Freedom.
So now, American Independence Day is all about Cultural Integration.
Got it.
An unnecessary, inaccurate, biased and political remark that brought division-politics into a celebration of our Diversity & Unity.