Thousands of Indians will celebrate the Independence Day of their Motherland at various locations in New Zealand this month.
India’s High Commissioner Avanindra Kumar Pandey will unfurl the country’s National Flag on August 15, 2012 at 10 am at the ‘India House’ in Lower Hutt and read out the message of the newly installed President Pranab Mukherjee. A number of residents of Wellington and neighbouring areas will attend the event.
Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust in Auckland will conduct its colourful annual event on August 12 in the ASB Theatre (Aotea Centre). The event will commence with a flag hoisting ceremony at 1030 am, followed by speeches and a cultural programme.
Trust chairman Jeet Suchdev said several Indian associations and organisations have come together to showcase India’s social and cultural heritage.
“The programme will begin with a flag-hoisting ceremony at the main entrance of Aotea Square, followed by cultural programmes staged by various organisations, dance and music schools and groups.
“Since New Zealand has a representation of most Indian states and cultures, the festival will feature dances and songs from different parts of India, highlighting the country’s unique traditional values.
“Our Independence Day celebrations will also demonstrate India’s unique concept of unity in diversity,” he said.
The Manukau Indian Association has also organised a similar programme at its premises in Papatoetoe (57 Hillside Road) on August 12 at 10 am.
