The diamond jubilee of India's republic Day was celebrated with much pomp and gaiety by the Indian community with two functions in Auckland and Manukau cities.
United Indianz organised the celebrations at the ASB Theatre in Aotea Centre in downtown Auckland together with a number of Indian organisations. The Indian flag was hoisted by the Indian High Commissioner Admiral (Retd) Sureesh Mehta. Prime Minister John Key and a number of other dignitaries addressed the gathering amid a variety of colourful cultural performances by a number of groups from all over the city.
Bhartiya Samaj in partnership with other Indian Culture based organisations celebrated the Indian Republic Day diamond jubilee at Telestra Clear Pacific Centre, Manukau on Sunday, January 24.
Over 3000 people attended. The function began with flag hoisting at the hands of Sir Barry Curtis, former Mayor of Manukau, Cultural programmes, parade and pageantry and an award ceremony marked the occasion. Food stalls served popular dishes from different parts of India.