India Celebrates 75 years of independence

75 years of India’s Independence was celebrated with great fervour in different parts of Sri Lanka on 15 August 2022. The celebrations this year are a 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. A press release by the Indian High Commission said

     The main event in Colombo was held at ‘India House, the official residence of the High Commissioner of India. High Commissioner Gopal Baglay hoisted India’s national flag and inspected the guard of honour. He also read excerpts of the President of India’s message on the occasion.

    Several cultural events added flavour to the milestone celebrations. Sri Lanka Navy Band played melodious tunes, symbolic of valour and patriotism. Students of Guru Sadara Supathum performed a dance to the music of ‘Bharat ko Salaam’. There was another ‘Garba’ dance performance in honour of Goddess Durga, who epitomizes strength, protection and motherhood. The event was telecast live and was attended virtually by friends of India and members of the Indian community in Sri Lanka.

   High Commissioner and officers of the High Commission of India also paid homage at the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial to the memory of the Indian soldiers of IPKF who made the supreme sacrifice defending the peace and unity of Sri Lanka.