New Delhi: Wearing patriotism on their faces, scores of denizens sported the national colours on Tuesday as they celebrated India’s 71st Independence Day. While children were seen wearing T-shirts soaked in the colours of India’s flag, the parents were seen carrying the national flag and singing patriotic songs like Vande Matram. Groups of youngsters were seen dancing on the streets heading towards the Mughal fort.
People across the national capital attended the I-Day ceremony at the historical Red Fort to celebrate the country’s freedom. From flags painted on cheeks and printed on T-shirts to Tricolour caps and suits, the message of sacrifice, peace, and prosperity that went into the achievement of the nation’s freedom could be felt in every direction.
Adding colour and fervor to the celebrations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cavalcade reached the Lahore Gate where he was received by defence minister Arun Jaitley, minister of state for defence Subhash Bhamre, and defence secretary Sanjay Mitra.
Wearing a beige half-sleeved kurta, tight fit white pyjamas, and a red and saffron turban, the PM kept up with the spirit of the crowd. His entry filled the audience with immense enthusiasm with children standing on their toes to catch a glimpse of their cherished Prime Minister.
The general officer commanding (GOC) of Delhi area then conducted the PM to the saluting base where a combined Inter-Services and Police Guard presented him with the general salute. Thereafter, he strode to inspect the Guard of Honour contingent, which consisted of one officer and 24 men each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Delhi police.
The unfurling of the national flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort synchronised with the resonant sound of the ceremonial 21 Gun Salute fired by the gunners of the elite 2281 Field Regiment. The Army band played the national anthem.
A strong Odisha contingent also participated in the 70th Independence Day flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort. A state-wise representation during the ceremony at the Lal Quila was the first of its kind.
About 50 members of three socio-cultural organisations (Intellect, Odia Mahamanch, and Utkalini) took part in the ceremony and were present in a designated enclosure at the Red Fort. Members of the contingent presented themselves in traditional Odia attire. Office of the chief resident commissioner made all the arrangements for the Odisha contingent for enabling their participation in the ceremony.
