India today celebrated its 79th Independence anniversary with much pomp and ceremony. The nation gained independence on August 15, 1947, after 200 years of British rule.
The celebrations began hours before Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort and delivered his longest address to date, announcing new initiatives, including a major job creation scheme. Cities and villages were adorned with tricolour lights, cultural performances, and patriotic rallies, while Indian communities abroad marked the day with equal fervour. Landmarks across the country, from Kanpur to Kolkata, glowed in saffron, white, and green.
Here in Guyana, the Indian High Commission in Georgetown hosted festivities on the lawns of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre. The occasion featured dances and other vibrant presentations showcasing India’s rich and diverse culture. A highlight of the event came when India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang, hoisted the Indian flag and read a message from the President of India, Droupadi Murmu.
“After regaining our freedom, we also became a democracy with universal adult franchise. In other words, we the people of India put the power to shape our destiny in the hands of each and us, without any restriction of gender, religion and other factors that barred many people from voting in other democracies,” the message read.
It added: “In spite of the many challenges, the people of India made a successful transition to democracy. The transition was a natural reflection of our ancient democratic ethos. India had the oldest republics in the word. It is rightly acknowledged as the mother of democracy.”
President Dr Irfaan Ali also joined world leaders in extending congratulations to India on this momentous occasion. He said the milestone stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and vision of the Indian people, whose remarkable journey since independence has inspired the world. Guyana and India share enduring bonds of friendship, rooted in deep historical, cultural, and people-to-people ties.
The President concluded his message by wishing the people of India continued peace, prosperity, and progress.
