iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
India celebrated its 75th Independence Day yesterday on August 15. Indians across the world had marked the celebration on their own by hoisting the tricolor and honoring the fight behind freedom. In the United States especially, people celebrated the special day in fervor nationwide.
In Washington DC, India’s Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu hoisted the Indian Flag and followed by National Anthem.
Sandhu highlighted that it was an occasion to rededicate oneself to transform the dreams and aspirations of 1.3 billion Indian people into reality.
He also noted that the relationship between India and the US have come a long way, however, there is a lot for the two countries to build and the opportunity to meet the true potential is huge.
He expressed keenness to connect the youth of both countries, including through education and knowledge partnership.
The message from Hon. President Ram Nath Kovind was played during the event, followed by a cultural program. The celebrations were attended by representatives from the community in-person in accordance with health guidelines, while many Indians, members of Indian – American community and friends of India joined virtually.
Besides this, the US President Joe Biden delivered a special speech where he extended his wishes and said that New Delhi and Washington must show the world that the “two great and diverse democracies” can deliver for people everywhere.
In a statement, Biden said: “I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day”.
“On Aug 15, 1947, India achieved its long journey towards independence, guided by Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth & non-violence. Over decades, ties b/w our people, including a vibrant community of over 4 million Indian-Americans, have strengthened our partnership,” he added.
He also said, “This past year, our nations have come together in new ways as we tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, including working in partnership with Japan and Australia–through the Quad–to expand global manufacturing of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and to strengthen our ”last-mile” coordination to reach people throughout the Indo-Pacific,” he said.
In addition to the president’s address, leaders from the US including senior members of Senate and House, State Administrations and legislators and dignitaries from diverse fields such as business, arts, sports, science, etc. conveyed their greetings.
Prominent members of the Indo-American community including representatives of various socio-cultural organizations, members of the business community and others also expressed their felicitations.
The consulates across the US conducted flag hoisting ceremonies. Events were held in iconic and historic locations including Times Square in New York, Gadar Memorial and City Halls in San Francisco and State Capitol Building in Providence and Rhode Island.
Several events including India Day parades, India festivals, lectures, Battery Dance etc. were organized across the US by diverse community organizations as well as local administration to mark the occasion. Special receptions are being held in Houston, Atlanta and Chicago, with the participation of dignitaries from US.
India is celebrating ”Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav”, marking the 75th year of Independence. A series of events are being organized across the country to mark the occasion.
