Colombo, August 15 (newsin.asia): Seventy-five years of India’s Independence was celebrated with great fervor in different parts of Sri Lanka on August 15.
The celebrations this year were part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ initiative, a global campaign to commemorate 75 years of a progressive and self-reliant India through numerous activities and events.
The main event in Colombo was held at ‘India House’, the official residence of the High Commissioner of India, Gopal Baglay. High Commissioner Baglay hoisted India’s national flag, the Tricolor, and inspected a Guard of Honour. He also read excerpts from the President of India’s message on the occasion.
Several cultural events added flavour to the milestone celebrations. The Sri Lankan Navy Band played melodious tunes, symbolic of valor and patriotism. Students of the Guru Sadara Supathum performed a dance to the music of ‘Bharat ko Salaam’. There was a ‘Garba’ dance performance in honor of Goddess Durga, who epitomizes strength, protection and the motherhood. The event was telecast live and was attended virtually by friends of India and members of the Indian community in Sri Lanka.
The High Commissioner and officers of the High Commission of India also paid homage at those in the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) who had laid down their lives to preserve the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka between 1987 and 1990.
Special events were organized by the Assistant High Commission in Kandy, Consulates General in Jaffna and Hambantota on the momentous occasion.
It needs to be emphasized that the celebrations in Jaffna were held at the iconic Jaffna Cultural Center, a state-of-the-art and one-of-its-kind in the city which was built with grant assistance from the Government of India.
A highlight of this year’s celebrations was the enthusiastic participation of members of the Indian community in the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign wherein they showcased their love and respect for the Indian tri-color in various innovative ways.
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