The High Commission of India in New Zealand has created a new trend with the India@70 events that look forward to celebrating the Indian Independence Day on a massive scale every year.
Hosted on Friday, August 18, at Bharat Bhavan in Wellington and Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland on Sunday, August 20, the two events saw more than 3500 people attend the celebrations.
The event, an initiative of the Government of India relayed through the High Commission of India in New Zealand aimed to bring the Indian community together under one roof for a day of national celebration.
Two musical groups from India travelled to New Zealand to perform at the two events. The Dhwani Music and Dance Academy from New Delhi have travelled and performed in the US, Germany, Poland, Italy, Canada and gave their maiden New Zealand performance.
The Dhwani group performed a medley of classical music and dance performance that received a standing ovation from the crowd.
Dwi, the band of three from Bangalore elevated the ambience of the event with their soulful music and songs.
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff took to the stage and congratulated the audience.
“Today, on the 70th birthday of India, I would like to thank all of you for the contributions that you make to our country,” Mr Goff said.
Other cultural performances included Raunak Punjab Dee Bhangra show, Khottey Sikkay Dance Group and Arabian Belly Dance on the famous song from the film ‘Sholay’.
The High Commissioner of India in New Zealand, Sanjiv Kohli took pride in announcing the success of both the events that were hosted by event centres owned my Indian community organisations.
The event concluded with a high energy band performance by Dwi that took the audience on the dance floor finishing the event at 9.30 p.m.