India’s 62nd Independence Day was celebrated with a two-hour function at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland today. Organised by the Auckland Indian Association, the proceedings began with the flag hoisting ceremony  – an indoor affair this year because of rains.

The morning began with a short welcome and address by association president Shri Harshad Patel. He said that amidst the economic gloom that had gripped the world, India had weathered the recession well and was poised to lead the global business environment out of the downturn because of its rapid rate of growth.

Senior association member Shri Kantibhai Bhika unfurled the flag escorted and helped by association secretary Dr Lingappa Kalburgi.

Addressing the gathering after the national anthem was sung, Shri Bhika paid homage to those who had laid down their lives for India’s independence and outlined the recent successes of Indians all over the world as well as in New Zealand.

As well as a number of prominent citizens of Indian origin, several National and Labour Party politicians also attended. Ethnic Affairs Minister Pansy Wong, National MP Cam Calder, Labour Party leader and MP Phil Goff and Labour MPs Chris Carter and Rajen Prasad were present.

Ms Wong said that this was the sevent year she was attending Indian I-Day celebrations. She said she was looking forward to the Indian festive season in the coming months saying, “Bollywood will rule again in the month of October,” referring to the highly successful Divali celebrations that have had Bollywood dances as their highpoints over the past few years.

Dr Prasad referred to points from President of India Dr Pratibha Patil’s national address touching upon points of social justice and the need for the benefits of India’s economic success to trickle down to the lower levels of society.

Mr Goff said among his few heroes was Mahatma Gandhi, who he praised for his humility, selflessness, courage and belief in social justice. He said Gandhiji was one of last century’s most inspirational leaders.

He also expressed satisfaction at recent reports that New Zealand had now doubled its exports to India and said he was happy that talks on a free trade agreement between the two countries were under way.

Two justices from India, Smt Hema Kohli and Shri S.K. Misra, visiting New Zealand for a conference beginning in Christchurch next week also attended. In her brief speech, Justice Kohli, who had landed only last night said there was much for India to learn from New Zealand on environmental matters.

A variety entertainment programme regaled the audience after the customary speeches. A series of dances from all over India choreographed by Auckland’s leading dance academy, Rachna Natyalaya, and the highly popular Indianz dance group performed superbly to lusty rounds of applause.

A Koli dance from Maharashtra and the final Bhangra presented by the Punjabi Association were also equally appreciated.

Those present were treated to a sumptuous meal after the ceremonies concluded. Despite the Janmashtami celebrations extending into the wee hours of the morning, a fairly large audience turned out for this morning's proceedings – a fact that was noted by Ethnic Affairs Minister Pansy Wong.