Indian Embassy celebrates 76th Independence Day in Ankara

By Burak Dag

ANKARA (AA) – The Indian Embassy in Türkiye’s capital Ankara marked on Monday the country’s 76th Independence Day.

As the celebrations kicked off with a flag hoisting ceremony and the singing of India’s national anthem, the country’s Charge d’Affaires Gaurav Gandhi delivered the message of India’s President Droupadi Murmu.

In her message, the president said: "It is a cause of celebration not only for all of us but also for every advocate of democracy around the world."

She further underlined: "The great freedom struggle and its leaders like Mahatma Gandhi rediscovered our ancient values for modern times."

To mark the day, cultural events such as the singing of the Indian traditional song Ganesh Vandana, poem recitations, and a traditional dance ceremony were organized.

Indian Embassy’s program was a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (Grand Independence Celebration), an initiative of the government of India to celebrate 75 years of independence and the glorious history of its people, culture, and achievements. The campaign started on March 12, 2021, with a 75-week countdown to the 75th anniversary of independence, and will end on Aug. 15, 2023.

On Aug. 14, 1947, the Indian subcontinent was formally divided into two new dominions of India and Pakistan under the terms of the Indian Independence Act, adopted by the British Parliament.