The Indian community in Christchurch came together on Saturday, August 15, to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by community members, dignitaries, families and supporters.
Held at Richmond Club, the event was jointly organised by the Canterbury Ethnic Communities Development Trust and Bhartiya Samaj Canterbury. The celebration honoured India’s independence while highlighting the longstanding relationship between India and New Zealand and the contribution of the Indian community to Canterbury and the wider country.
Hitesh Sharma of the Canterbury Ethnic Communities Development Trust said the gathering was an opportunity to celebrate India’s independence while bringing the community closer together.
“It was wonderful to see so many people come together to mark this important occasion. The event was not only a celebration of India’s Independence Day, but also an opportunity to recognise the friendship between India and New Zealand and the strong community connections we continue to build here in Canterbury.”
Dr Surinder Tandon, Chairman of Bhartiya Samaj Canterbury, spoke about the enduring bond between members of the Indian diaspora and their homeland.
“Although we live thousands of kilometres away, we cannot take India out of us. We carry our culture, traditions, values and heritage with us.”
Tandon also highlighted the role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening relations between the two countries.
“We truly can be the living bridge between our two countries.”
He also pointed to the recently signed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, noting the opportunities it could create for businesses, entrepreneurs, professionals and communities in both countries.
The event was attended by Christchurch Deputy Mayor Victoria Henstock, University of Canterbury Vice-Chancellor Professor Cheryl de la Rey, local Members of Parliament and community representatives. Speakers reflected on the contributions of the Indian diaspora, the importance of multiculturalism and the need to continue strengthening connections between India and New Zealand.
The celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony and refreshments, providing an opportunity for attendees to connect and celebrate together.
Sakthi Priya Balaji Renganathan thanked the dignitaries, community representatives, volunteers, supporters and members of the public whose contributions helped make the event a success.
The gathering marked 80 years of India’s independence while celebrating the growing cultural, social and community ties connecting India, New Zealand and Canterbury.