Celebrating India's 79th Independence Day at Durban's India House
Consul-General of India in Durban Dr.Thelma John David delivering her address at India's 79th Independence Day celebrated in the city on Friday.
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media
India's 79th Independence Day and traditional flag-hoisting ceremony was celebrated on Friday at Durban's India House. The event was well-attended yet again and drew Indians, members of the diaspora, students, and friends of the Asian nation.
The ceremony commenced with the Consul General of India in Durban, Dr. Thelma John David, unfurling the tricolour, a moment that resonated with all present, which was followed by the singing of the Indian National Anthem.
Included in the ceremony were the delivery of some excerpts from the address delivered by Indian President, Droupadi Murmu, on the eve of the Independence Day celebrations.
Consul General of India in Durban, Dr. Thelma John David leading proceedings during India's 79th Independence Day and traditional flag-hoisting ceremony
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media
In her address, consul-general David reflected on the significance of this year's celebrations, highlighting it as a marker of India’s relentless journey towards progress and the strengthening of its partnership with South Africa.
She also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of South African Indians, emphasising the importance of preserving their rich stories and cultural heritage for generations to come.
Deputy National Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, alongside the Consul-General Of India Durban Dr. Thelma John David
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media
Deputy National Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, was also in attendance.
During his keynote address, he reaffirmed the deep and substantial relations between India and South Africa, pointing out the vast potential for collaboration and growth that lies ahead for both nations.
The event showcased the talents of young students and skilled practitioners from the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center at the Consulate General of India, who received certificates in recognition of their achievements in yoga, Hindi, and Kathak.
Also on the programme was Regan Nagan, who was congratulated for his impressive triumph in the Prathiba Sangam competition for Carnatic Vocals, which highlighted the rich tapestry of the Indian arts.
The many guests who celebrated India's 79th Independence Day in Durban on Friday
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media
Included in the cultural programme that followed were a collection of songs performed by students from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and members of the Indian diaspora, highlighting the essence of unity in diversity.
The festivities culminated with a lively street food festival, offering a glimpse of the culinary delights of India. Participants had the opportunity to experience the flavours of various regions, including Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
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