India Day CGI Toronto: CGI Preeti Saran hoists the India Tricolour, cuts cake to celebrate the 67th Independence Day of India
News East West
TORONTO: Indians in Canada celebrated the country’s 67th Independence Day by flag-hoisting, cake-cutting and cultural functions.
In Toronto, a large number of people gathered at the Indian Consulate General in downtown to join in the festivities as Consul General Preeti Saran unfurled the Tricolour amid cheers. This was followed by the singing of the Indian national anthem.
Then the Consul General read President Pranab Mukherjee’s message to the Indians all over the world.
The gathering then joined in the singing of patriotic song Ae Merer Watan Ke Logo in memory of those who laid down their lives during India’s freedom struggle.
Cake-cutting by the Consul General was followed by rounds clapping and cheers.
Similar India Day functions were held at the Indian missions in Ottawa and Vancouver.
Congratulating Indians, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, in his message, said, “On behalf of all Canadians, I am pleased to extend my very best wishes to all those celebrating the 66th anniversary of India’s independence today.
Harper said, “Since gaining independence in 1947, India has risen to become one of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies thanks to the remarkable work ethic of its people. Even in the midst of the worst global recession in half a century, India remained a beacon of hope.
“Thanks to our strong trade relationship and to the millions of Canadians of Indian heritage who continue to enrich our communities, the friendship between our countries grows stronger each and every day.
“Once again, I offer my sincere congratulations to all those honouring this important milestone of India’s history as an independent nation.”
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