The 75th Independence Day was celebrated with fervour and enthusiasm by the Consulate General of India, Sydney (CGI, Sydney). In view of prevailing strict restrictions and public health concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the celebrations were held in a virtual format with live streaming of the program. The flag hoisting ceremony was organized with limited staff members.
To reflect these aspirations on the occasion of 75th Independence Day of India Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), Consulate General of India (CGI), Sydney have arranged various activities to showcasing the vibrancy of India in its true from. A competition on ‘Share your memories with Indian Monument’ and Painting competition on ‘Reflecting Growth of India’ and ‘Freedom Movement of India’ have been organised, which received good response from the community.
A culinary series ‘Swad- a Culinary expression of India’ was launched as a part of celebrations. Renowned Manipuri dance artist Padma Sri recipient Darshana Jhaveri, Pung Cholom artist Y. Bhumeshwar Singh and Kuchipudi dance artist Ashrita Keshav have recorded their performances exclusively for CGI Sydney and the recorded performances were released on the social media platforms of Consulate.
‘Mile Sur Mera Tumhara’- “Celebrating Diversity of Indian Australian Community” a medley of expressions from Indian community representing our true diversity in Australia, was screened during the flag hoisting ceremony. Indian music, which has carved out a special place on global scale and is very popular in Australia. The very warm response received from the various music activities facilitated by Consulate General of India, Sydney stands testimonial to it.
On this special occasion, Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Federal leader of Opposition Anthony Albanese, Julian Leeser, Chair of India Australia Parliamentary Friendship Group, NSW Premier and Leader of Opposition, South Australia Premier, Sydney Lord Mayor Cr. Clover Moore, State and Federal MPs, Mayors of City Councils have extended their Greetings to the Indian Australian community which have been shared through our social media platforms. Parramatta City Council, one of the preferred residential areas of the Indian Australian community, also hoisted the Indian tricolor on the riverbank. Various diaspora organizations and Student organisations have celebrated Independence Day in a virtual format in various suburbs and universities in Sydney with participation of the Consulate, local MPs and Councillors.