INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION - 2023
The 77th Independence Day of India was joyously commemorated on August 15, 2023, at the Consulate General of India, Guangzhou through a solemn flag-hoisting ceremony. The event was attended by over 200 members of the Indian community along with Consulate officials, signifying a strong spirit of unity and patriotism.
Consul General Shambhu Hakki hoisted the tricolor, a moment that resonated deeply with everyone present. Following the flag hoisting, the gathering united in singing the National Anthem.
During the ceremony, Consul General Shambhu Hakki conveyed the Address by the Hon'ble President of India on the eve of Independence Day and also took the opportunity to personally address the attendees, highlighting the significance of the occasion. He also administered the Panch Pran Pledge, fostering a sense of commitment and camaraderie among the Indian community members present.
In a notable stride towards the "Digital India" initiative, Shri Hakki inaugurated a Point of Sale (POS) terminal payment system at the Consular Centre. This progressive move allows visa applicants the convenience of online payments through various digital platforms, obviating the need for carrying physical currency.
Shri Hakki shed light on the diverse cultural and consular initiatives undertaken by the Consulate in recent months, such as the enriching Manch cultural initiative, melodious singing classes, rejuvenating yoga events, and impactful consular camps. He also underscored India's remarkable economic accomplishments and its burgeoning stature on the global stage.
The celebrations reverberated with the enthusiastic participation of the Indian diaspora and local Chinese artists who jointly presented a vibrant array of cultural performances. The younger generation added a touch of patriotic fervor through spirited dance performances and eloquent poem recitations. The event also showcased the grace of classical Kathak dances and the resonance of classical Indian music, complemented by the stirring rendition of patriotic melodies by members of the Indian diaspora.
The festivities culminated with a ceremony to honor the winners of the Poster Making Competition, organized by the Consulate for the children of the Indian Diaspora on the theme 'India at 75'. Consul General Shambhu Hakki took the pleasure of awarding the winners and performers with cash prizes and certificates, underlining the Consulate's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering community bonds.