Two events commemorate India's 72nd Republic Day celebrations in Wellington

The High Commission of India in Wellington hosted two events on the occasion of India's 72 Republic Day, on Tuesday, January 26.

The early morning event was held at India House in Lower Hutt where the Indian tricolour was unfurled and hoisted by High Commissioner of India in New Zealand Muktesh Pardeshi amongst over 200 community members, leaders and guests.

Post flag hoisting and singing the Indian national anthem, Mr Pardeshi gave a heart-rendering speech at the event recalling India's freedom struggle, and lauding community members to have kept the flame of patriotism alive even in New Zealand. While addressing the gathering, he also read out the speech of Hon'ble President of India Ram Nath Kovind on Indian Republic Day.

The event also presented live singing of several patriotic songs by different artists and groups before dispersing for breakfast.

A grand official reception was also held later in the evening at the India House Hall on occasion attended by dignitaries, local and national government officials and guests from all around New Zealand.

Present at the event were former Governor-General Sir Anand Satyanand, Minister of Transport Michael Wood, first Indian origin Minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan, MPs Dr Gaurav Sharma, Greg O'Connor, Paul Eagle, Ibrahim Omer, Chris Bishop, Mayor of Wellington Andy Foster, Mayor of Palmerston North Grant Smith, Councillor Shazly Rasheed representing Mayor of Hutt City, Andrew Needs from MFAT; Commissioner of Police Andrew Coster, Hon Consul of India in Auckland Bhav Dhillon and representatives business, culture, media and Indian community.

The event showcased cultural performances from Natraj School of Dance, Shivam Dance Academy and NZ Community of Youth Ambassadors presenting Indian classical and fusion dance items (Bharatanatyam and Maori Kapa Haka).

The High Commission of India also felicitated Priyanca Radhakrishnan on conferment of Pravasiya Bharatiya Samman Award 2021 from the Government of India for her contribution to public life.

The event concluded with cultural performances, speeches by guests and dinner for the attendees.