The Consulate General of India in Sydney marked the 79th anniversary of India’s Independence with a reception and cultural evening at the Darling Harbour Theatre, International Convention Centre, on 15 August. The celebration brought together members of the Indian diaspora, business leaders, and friends of India for an evening filled with pride and festivity.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns attended as the chief guest, alongside Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper and Opposition Leader Mark Speakman. Their presence underscored the strong ties between India and Australia and highlighted the role of the Indian community in the state’s multicultural fabric.
The program featured a vibrant showcase of talent, beginning with performances by winners of a Talent Show competition. The Australian Indian Orchestra added a musical dimension to the evening with its stirring performance, while the Harishu Ishu Sapera Group (supported by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations), captivated audiences with an energetic display of traditional Rajasthani folk dance.
The event reflected both a celebration of India’s journey of independence and a reaffirmation of the bonds shared between the two nations. It was a moment of cultural pride and community spirit, embraced warmly by those in attendance.
Indian Independence Day was also marked with pride and colour in Sydney’s western suburbs, with Strathfield and Blacktown councils hosting special community events to honour the occasion.
The Indian tricolour was hoisted at Strathfield Council on 15 August as residents, community members and officials gathered to celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day. The morning ceremony, marked by the national anthem and moments of reflection, has become a proud tradition since Strathfield became the first Australian council to host such an event in 2022.
Former Councillor Raj Datta, who initiated the flag raising, said the celebration strengthens ties between India and Australia and fosters peace and prosperity in the region. With the Tiranga flying high, the ceremony symbolised both India’s independence and the deep friendship between the two nations.
Blacktown’s celebrations unfolded in a lively setting where the annual “Celebration of India” drew families from across the city. The afternoon program featured cultural performances, music, and dance, alongside food stalls and activities that captured the vibrancy of Indian traditions. The event reflected the diverse makeup of the Blacktown area, where Indian-Australian families form one of the largest multicultural groups.
For many in the diaspora, these occasions offered not only a chance to celebrate India’s independence but also an opportunity to affirm their place in Australia’s multicultural story.
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