Happy Birthday America! Favorite Indian-American Entertainers

*And yes, if you were wondering we posted this on “America time” :)

4th of July Fireworks (photo credit: livingston4thofjuly.com)

Something that India and the United States will always have in common is winning their independence from England. This day, 236 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was signed, ending English rule over the American colonies.

Since that day the U.S. has become a nation of immigrants, and is home to some 3 million NRIs. So in lieu of fireworks, lake parties, and Bud Light, today I’ll celebrate by giving a shout out to my favorite Indian-American entertainers!

Aziz Ansari

From his role on Parks and Recreation, to his stand-up I think he’s one of the funniest comedians on the scene. I love the clip below where he blasts his chubby cousin Harris.

Kal Penn

In contrast to his hilarious Harold & Kumar stoner roles, Kalpesh is currently working on a graduate certificate from Stanford, and was named Associate Director of White House Public Engagement by President Obama.

Kal Penn (photo credit: fanpix.net)

Norah Jones

Her father, Ravi Shankar, must be proud considering she has won 9 Grammy Awards and sold over 40 million records.

Mindy Kaling

Everyone knows her as the ditsy Kelly Kapoor from The Office, but she’s also an executive producer and writer for the popular show.

Mindy Kaling (photo credit: allmoviephoto.com)

M. Night Shyamalan

Director of The Sixth Sense, The Village, Unbreakable, Signs, and recipient of the Padma Shri honor by the Indian Government.

M. Night Shayamalan (photo credit: nationalpost.com)

Dr. Apu Nahasapeemapetilon

Okay so he’s not a real person, and he may have perpetuated some negative stereotypes over the years, but you still gotta love him.

Apu from The Simpsons (photo credit: gearheads.org)

And there’s even an episode where he becomes a naturalized American citizen! You can see the full episode below.

Aasif Mandvi

My current favorite correspondent from The Daily Show. Check out this hilarious interview with a clueless, gun-toting State Congresswoman below.

Nicki Minaj

This outspoken hip hop star is 1/4 Indian from her father’s side. Since her first album went platinum in less then 1 month she’s broken all sorts of Billboard chart records.

Nicki Minaj (photo credit: fashcraze.blogspot.com)