Indians from India and other parts of the world will get together in Auckland’s Central Business District on Sunday, August 18 to take part in Independence Day celebrations, which actually begin with a flag-hoisting ceremony at ‘India House’ in Lower Hutt on August 15.
Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust is organising the annual programme at the Civic Auditorium located at the corner of Queen & Wellesley Streets, with the participation of a number of community groups, clubs and associations.
Profound reflection
Bhartiya Samaj Chairman Jeet Suchdev said that the Organisation endeavours to reflect upon the day of freedom achieved by India on August 15, 1947.
“India’s Independence Day is an occasion to rejoice not only the dawn of freedom but also the rise of a new era. We dedicate this great occasion in honour and memory of our brave leaders and common people, who sacrificed their lives to give us an opportunity to breathe this air of freedom,” he said.
The Civic Stadium is one of the few remaining Atmospheric Theatres in the world, he said and added that the structure, built in 1929 is of Rococo design, with Indian-inspired motifs in the public foyer including seated statutes of Buddha, twisted columns and domed ceilings.
“Several Indian and South Asian organisations will present a wide range of cultural performances reflecting on the rich and vibrant flavours of India and South Asia. We will create an atmosphere of a diverse Indian funfair. The event will begin at 1030 am with a flag-hoisting ceremony, followed by a parade and cultural performances reflecting the diverse culture of the Indian sub-continent,” Mr Suchdev said.
