Shirish Paranjape
Christchurch, August 16, 2020
The Indian community was joined by many others in marking the 74th Independence Day of India, yesterday (Saturday, August 15, 2020) braving the sub-zero temperature in Christchurch.
About 60 persons, including women and children were present at the flag-hoisting ceremony, exchanging greetings, singing the National Anthem of India and other patriotic songs.
The event was organised by Hitesh Sharma at the car park of an Indian grocery store.
Maori blessing, Unity song
Sally Pitama of Ngai Tahu blessed the Ceremony with a Maori ritual, while community leaders including Christchurch Central Labour MP Dr Duncan Webb and Christchurch Multicultural Council President Dr Surinder Tandon were among the participants.
It was great to see families including children participate with fervour. Among the others who attended the event were Retired army personnel Navjeet Dhillon and his wife Raminder, who arrived in New Zealand before the Covid-19 pandemic began to spread in New Zealand.
Radio Sadeaala and Jalsa Fiji Radio covered the Independence Day Celebration and Natu Rama filmed the proceedings for Indian Social & Cultural Club.
Shirish Paranjape is Indian Newslink Correspondent based in Christchurch.
