THE Canadian Hindu Foundation celebrated the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence Day with great enthusiasm in Surrey and Burnaby and held a “Tiranga” car rally on Sunday, August 21, in which several hundred people representing 28 diverse states of India participated.
More than 230 cars decorated with Indian flags made their way from Surrey to the Burnaby Hindu Temple where the Indian flag was hoisted by Indian Consul General Manish.
People of Indian origin celebrated the occasion by singing the Indian National Anthem and “Vande Matram,” the Indian national song. There were cultural performances.
Manish spoke about the rapid development of India and its new achievements. A band played Indian patriotic songs.
The initiative was organized by Canadian Hindu Foundation, a non-profit organization, that also organized three limousines that were used exclusively for seniors, especially women, who rarely step outside their homes. The thrilled seniors warmly thanked the organizers for their thoughtful gesture.
At the beginning of the celebration at the Laxmi Narayan Temple Surrey, folk songs of Kashmir, the Garba dance of Gujarat, the Ghoomar dance of Rajasthan, and the Kathak dance of Uttar Pradesh were performed to reflect the rich variety of Indian culture. There were many stalls that showcased the Indian culture and traditional food, which was distributed free to everyone.
Many diplomats and leaders from the community, including former premier Christy Clark, also participated in the celebration.
(Information contributed)
