GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): The Embassy of India in Guatemala celebrated the 77th Independence Day on August 15, 2023, with a fervent spirit of patriotism and unity with the participation of more than 200 Indian community and friends of India. The event commenced with Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra unfurling the tricolor Indian flag, a symbol of the nation’s freedom and resilience. The ceremony commenced with the soul-stirring rendition of the National Anthem, echoing through the embassy premises.

In a poignant homage to the occasion, Ambassador Dr. Mohapatra readout the speech delivered by the Hon’ble President of India on the eve of Independence Day. The highlights of the speech emphasized India’s continued commitment to progress, unity, and inclusiveness. The President’s address underlined the nation’s achievements while acknowledging the importance of fostering harmony and development for all citizens.

The Ambassador extended heartfelt gratitude to the Indian community for their unwavering support. He expressed his sincere appreciation for their active involvement in various Embassy events and initiatives. Additionally, he conveyed the exciting news of the commencement of Bollywood and Indian classical dance classes at the Embassy. This endeavor aims to celebrate the rich cultural traditions of India and provide a platform for community members to come together and immerse themselves in the joy of dance. The Ambassador’s message underscored the importance of community collaboration and highlighted the Embassy’s commitment to nurturing cultural bonds and fostering a sense of unity among the Indian community.

A notable highlight of the celebration was the symbolic administration of the “Panch Pran Pledge” by Ambassador Dr. Mohapatra. The “Panch Pran Pledge” urges individuals to channel their efforts into five pivotal resolutions aimed at shaping India’s trajectory over the next 25 years. These resolutions encompass making India a developed nation, eradicating remnants of subjugation, fostering pride in its cultural heritage, fortifying unity, and dutifully fulfilling civic responsibilities. This pledge signifies an ambitious commitment to steer India’s future through resolute dedication. It comprises five core promises, intended to be accomplished by 2047, mirroring the nation’s aspirations for comprehensive advancement. The first pledge ardently underscores the necessity of India’s transformation into a developed nation by 2047, signifying comprehensive growth across all sectors. The second pledge underscores the imperative of discarding all traces of subservience, spotlighting the essence of self-reliance and sovereignty, particularly by eliminating remnants of colonial thinking. The third pledge embraces an embrace of India’s cultural legacy, spotlighting the importance of safeguarding and cherishing its cultural roots. The fourth pledge champions unity’s strength, transcending diversities through harmonious coexistence, while also paying homage to those who safeguarded the nation. Lastly, the fifth pledge emphasizes diligent fulfilment of civic responsibilities, underscoring collective action as pivotal for societal advancement. The “Panch Pran Pledge” encapsulates India’s collective determination to propel the nation towards a future characterized by prosperity, self-esteem, unity, and conscientious citizenship.

The cultural mosaic of India came alive in the cultural program presented by the Indian community members. Enthusiastic participants showcased their talents through patriotic songs, evocative poems, and spirited dances, embodying the spirit of the nation. The atmosphere reverberated with a sense of pride and belonging, fostering a deep connection among attendees.

In line with the spirit of remembrance, an exhibition titled “Partition Horror Remembrance Day” was organized. This exhibition aimed to raise awareness about the tragic events of India’s partition and pay homage to the sacrifices made during that tumultuous period. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, harmony, and the pursuit of a peaceful coexistence. The impact of the “Partition Horror Remembrance Day” exhibition was profound, as it allowed attendees to reflect on the lessons learned from history. The exhibition underscored the significance of preserving peace and understanding among diverse communities and the dire consequences of division. It served as a call for unity and tolerance, transcending borders and generations.

The Embassy organized a prize distribution ceremony to honor the winners of the Yoga My Pride Photography Contest 2023. This contest invited individuals to capture the essence of yoga through their camera lenses, celebrating the beauty, serenity, and strength that yoga brings to our lives. The event aimed to promote artistic expression while highlighting the transformative power of yoga. The submitted photographs beautifully depicted moments of yoga practice, meditation, and harmony with nature. The contest not only encouraged creativity but also raised awareness about yoga’s numerous benefits for physical and mental well-being. A committee from the Embassy evaluated the diverse range of entries and selected the deserving winners, who were presented with trophies in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the contest.

The Embassy actively rallied the Indian community through its diverse social media channels, urging their participation in the noteworthy “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign initiated by the Government of India. This initiative holds paramount importance as it endeavors to foster a collective sense of national pride and unity. The campaign’s essence lies in urging each Indian household to unfurl the national flag, the Tiranga, a symbol that represents the unity and diversity of our nation. The Embassy extended its support to the Indian community by facilitating the provision of the tricolor flag, enabling households to be part of this movement.

The Flag Hoisting Celebrations at the Embassy of India, Guatemala, were a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s journey of freedom, resilience, and progress. The event not only rekindled the flames of patriotism but also reinforced the bonds between the Indian community and the host country, Guatemala, fostering an atmosphere of shared values and mutual respect.

(With inputs from the Embassy of India in Guatemala)