London, Aug 15 (PTI) — On Friday, hundreds of individuals of Indian heritage gathered at the High Commission of India in London to celebrate India's 79th Independence Day with music, dance, and patriotic slogans. Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, commenced the event by unfurling the Tricolour, followed by the National Anthem resonating throughout the India House courtyard in Aldwych. He read excerpts from President Droupadi Murmu’s traditional address to the nation, aligning with annual diaspora gatherings. "Independence Day offers the chance for both Indian citizens and friends of India within the diaspora to reconnect with the nation," Doraiswami explained to PTI.
He added, "We welcomed individuals from all communities, truly representing India’s diverse tapestry—from Kashmir to Kerala and Punjab to the North East. It’s a proud occasion for all to reconnect with India’s spirit and salute our flag." Reflecting on India-UK relations, Doraiswami highlighted the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) finalized earlier this year. He remarked that this agreement heralds optimistic prospects for bilateral relations across various sectors. "The FTA paves the way for a forward-looking future. While we respect our past, our focus remains on future strides," Doraiswami asserted.
Marking his visit to the UK, Ramdas Athawale, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, participated in this year’s celebrations. Athawale expressed his pleasure in engaging with overseas Indians making significant contributions across diverse sectors in the UK. "I’m eager to convey to Prime Minister Modi ji the depth of patriotic fervor and love Indian expatriates have for our country," Athawale shared in Hindi with PTI.
Notable honorees included Ananya Prasad, acknowledged as the first woman of color to row solo and unsupported across the Atlantic Ocean, and Yogesh Alekari, recognized for his extensive travel across Europe and Africa on an India-made motorcycle. Sukhjinder Kaur and her grandson Ashan Singh, descendants of the legendary freedom fighter Sardar Kartar Singh Sarabha, were also honored. Doraiswami recounted Sarabha’s valor, "Born in May 1896, he joined the Ghadar Party at 15 and was executed in November 1915, becoming a martyr in our freedom fight," in his closing nod to inspirational freedom fighters.
The celebrations culminated in a colorful cultural program featuring a violin recital alongside Kathak and Bharatanatyam performances to patriotic tunes like ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Bharat Humko Jaan Se Pyaara Hai’.
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