Canterbrians mark India’s Freedom Day

Shirish Paranjape –

Despite rain and cold weather, about 200 members of the Indian community in Christchurch got together to celebrate India’s 68^th Independence Day Anniversary.

National MP Nicky Wagner was the Chief Guest at the event held at the Latimer Square in Christchurch Central.

Nathu Rama, one of the senior-most members of the Indian community hoisted the Indian flag and the Square was filled with the Indian National Anthem sung by the gathering with full gusto.

Among the speakers at the gathering were Ms Wagner and this reporter.

A special cake was later cut by Christchurch Multicultural Council President Dr Surinder Tandon, Ms Wagner and Mr Rama.

In terms of number of people in attendance, this year’s India Independence Day celebrations witnessed the largest to date.

A separate celebration was held at the Fendalton Community Centre later in the evening. The programme included cultural items, a quiz and pot luck.

Shirish Paranjape is a Member of the Multicultural Council based in Christchurch.

Photo:

1. Members of the community after hoisting the Indian National Flag
2. National MP Nicky Wagner speaking at the event

(Pictures by Indian Social and Cultural Club)