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Dunedin Indians celebrate Independence Day with first community event in two decades

Dunedin Indians celebrate Independence Day with first community event in two decades

Dunedin Indian Community with the support of Arasan NZ trust celebrated 76th Indian Independence day on 15 August 2022 at the Union Hall of Otago University Dunedin.

According to Dr. Lux Selvanesan, chairperson of Arasan NZ Trust, this is the first time in the last 24 years that an event celebrating the Indian independence day was organized. it was Narindervir Singh (NV), Depot Manager Go Bus Transport Dunedin and Lucky Singh & Sandeep Kaur- CEO's of L.S Jewels & Outfits Dunedin who came up with the idea of celebrations.

Ceremony started with a speech by Singh thanking the sponsor and also a short description on the importance of Azadi for Indians. 

Tushar Robins- member of Dunedin ethnic community, Labor MP Rachel Brooking and Local Councillor Steve Walker were the chief guests at the event and hosted the Indian flag.

National Anthem Jana Gana Mana was sung after flag hosting and the whole hall roared with Jai Hind and Bharat Mata Ki Jai. A ceremonial lamp with prayers for the well-being of the Indian community was also lighted by Tushar Robins, Rachel Brooking, Steve Walker, Jatinder Kaur ji, Dr. Selvanesan and Singh. An emotional connection with India was evident in the cultural performances like traditional dances, songs, and a few speeches from the community members.

Tushar Robins, MP Rachel Brooking and Steve Walker said they were really honored to be part of this great event and shared their views. As a way of acknowledging the Chief guests, Dr. Selvanesan presented them with gifts at the end of the event.

Dr. Selvanesan also shared that efforts were underway for forming the Dunedin Indian Community Association under the guidance and support from the Indian High Commission, Honorary Consulate Bhav Dhillon and Mr Durga Das from the Indian High Commission office. The vision for the organisation is to have representatives from all parts of India.

The Independence Day was attended by more than 150 people and they all were served with light refreshments which includes Ladoo, samosas, matthi and soft drinks.

In the Closing speech Dr. Selvanesan, Lucky Singh and NV Singh thanked Mr. Kishor Kumar- Arasan NZ Trust Secretary for the help, ISA members of Otago University, Daljeet Singh, Shine Singh for volunteering and supporting the event.

Dunedin Indian Community with the support of Arasan NZ trust celebrated 76th Indian Independence day on 15 August 2022 at the Union Hall of Otago University Dunedin.

According to Dr. Lux Selvanesan, chairperson of Arasan NZ Trust, this is the first time in the last 24 years that an event celebrating the Indian independence day was organized. it was Narindervir Singh (NV), Depot Manager Go Bus Transport Dunedin and Lucky Singh & Sandeep Kaur- CEO's of L.S Jewels & Outfits Dunedin who came up with the idea of celebrations.

Ceremony started with a speech by Singh thanking the sponsor and also...

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