Santiago – Indian diplomatic missions across the globe marked the 79th Independence Day with vibrant celebrations that highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage, strong diaspora ties, and enduring global partnerships.
In Chile, the Embassy of India in Santiago celebrated the occasion with great enthusiasm. Indian Ambassador Abhilasha Joshi hoisted the national flag, read President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the nation, and shared highlights from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech delivered from the Red Fort, outlining India’s developmental strides, global role, and vision for a Viksit Bharat 2047.
“The atmosphere was filled with patriotic fervour as the Tricolour fluttered high and Jana Gana Mana echoed among the gathering,” the Indian Embassy said in a statement.
Over 300 members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India in Chile participated in the celebration, which featured cultural performances and a spread of traditional Indian cuisine, symbolising the deep-rooted connections of heritage, culture, and shared values.
The event reaffirmed the diaspora’s integral role in India’s growth story and its contributions to strengthening India–Chile relations.
In the United States, the Indian Consulate General in New York hosted a specially curated cultural programme themed Shakti – Divine Energy. The celebration featured classical dance forms such as Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Kathakali, as well as contemporary performances by acclaimed artists from both India and the U.S.
The Consulate also collaborated with the 44th Annual Battery Dance Festival, New York City’s longest-running public dance festival, further amplifying India’s cultural footprint in the global arts community.
In Houston, Indian Consul General D.C. Manjunath joined board members and local elected representatives at a large-scale celebration organised at India House, a prominent Indian-American community hub. The event witnessed strong participation from the local diaspora, reinforcing the community’s vibrant connection to their homeland.
In Guyana, the Indian High Commission in Georgetown, along with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, marked the day with a festive gathering attended by Indian nationals, students, businesspersons, and members of the Guyanese-Indian community.
Similarly, in Trinidad and Tobago, the High Commission of India in Port of Spain hosted a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation (MGICC). The event included the national anthem and cultural performances, with active participation from the Indian diaspora and friends of India.
Across continents, India’s Independence Day was marked not only by ceremonies and flag hoisting, but also by a celebration of cultural heritage, unity, and India’s growing global resonance. (Source: IANS)
