Washington: India’s 74th Republic Day was celebrated in Washington D.C. Jan 26 with a flag-hoisting ceremony at India House. The ceremony was attended by friends of India from diverse fields, including the US Congress, business, media, students and members of the Indian diaspora.
Ambassador of India Taranjit Singh Sandhu unfurled the tricolor, which was followed by singing of the national anthem. The address by President of India Droupadi Murmu on the eve of Republic Day was screened during the ceremony.
Highlighting India’s Presidency of G-20 and other important initiatives at multilateral fora like the Voice of the Global South Summit held earlier this month, Ambassador Sandhu emphasized that India is looked upon not only as a strong pillar for the global economy but also as a country that can be counted upon for bringing stability and security on multiple counts during these uncertain and complex times.
He noted that India and the US, are benefiting from mutual exchanges, across domains including healthcare, clean energy, security, education, technology, translating the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Biden into action. He noted that Srinivas Varadan, an Indian American Mathematician and a distinguished diaspora member, has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the highest civilian awards by the Government of India.
Congressman Ro Khanna, Chair of the House Caucus on India and Indian Americans, recalled the sacrifices of his own family members during India’s freedom struggle and pointed out that countries across the globe drew inspiration from India’s freedom struggle.
Congressman Shri Thanedar highlighted that his being the fifth Indian origin Congressperson in the United States was a watershed moment for Indian Americans and that he, along with his colleagues in the Congress, would work to build a stronger India-United States relationship.
A cultural program featuring a tuneful rendition of patriotic songs by students of Gandharva School of Music, Richmond was presented during the ceremony.
