India House Celebrates India’s 67th Independence Day with Hoisting of Flags

HOUSTON: India’s 67th Independence Day was celebrated with fanfare in a festive Flag Hoisting ceremony on the grounds of India House on August 15. Over 100 people attended the ceremony and a special representative from Senator Rodney Ellis’s office presented an official State of Texas Certificate of Recognition to mark the occasion.

Independence Day is a day when Indian people pay homage to their leaders and those who fought for India’s freedom. The period leading up to Independence Day is a time when major government buildings and homes are illuminated with strings of tri-colored lights. Broadcast, print and online media may have special contests, programs, and articles to promote the day. The President delivers the “Address to the Nation” on the eve of Independence Day. India’s Prime Minister unfurls India’s flag and holds a speech at the Red Fort in Old Delhi as part of the celebration. Addressing the nation on the 67th Independence Day, President Pranab Mukherjee spoke on many topics, including government accountability and welfare needs. He stated, “At the dawn of our Independence, we lit the glowing lamp of modernity and equitable economic growth. To keep this lamp aflame, our highest priority has to be the elimination of poverty. Though a declining trend in the poverty rate is clearly visible, our fight against this scourge is far from over. India has the talent, ability, and the resources to overcome this challenge”.

Flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs are held in state capitals and often involve schools and organizations. Many people spend the day with family members or close friends. Kite flying is also a popular celebratory event.

Independence Day is a gazetted holiday in India on August 15 each year. National, state, and local government office, along with post offices and banks are closed on this day. The struggle for India’s independence began in 1857 with the Sepoy Mutiny in Meerut. Later in the 20th century, the Indian National Congress and other political organizations under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, launched a countrywide independence movement. As a result, colonial powers were transferred to India on August 15, 1947.

India House Houston is a 501(c) 3 organization located in Houston.India House is a non-religious, non-regional, non-political and non-profit organization. Its mission is to unite cultures, create bridges, and serve human needs by bringing resources, education, services and India’s culture to Houstonians.

For further information visit www.indiahouseinc.org or send email to britt@indiahouseinc.org.