GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): The Embassy of India in Guatemala hosted the 79th Independence Day of India on 15th August 2025, celebrating the spirit of freedom, unity, and national pride. The event took place at the chancery premises and saw an enthusiastic turnout of nearly 250 members of the Indian community, along with local friends of India, reflecting the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Guatemala.

The ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the Indian National Flag by Shri Ravinder Kumar, Charge d’Affaires, who also read aloud the Hon’ble President of India’s Address to the Nation. This moment provided a solemn reminder of India’s struggle for independence, the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters, and the shared values of democracy, liberty, and unity that continue to guide the nation. The Charge d’Affaires highlighted the significance of the day and encouraged the Indian community and friends of India to participate actively in fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

A highlight of the celebration was the rich display of cultural performances. Members of the Indian community and local Guatemalans presented both solo and group renditions of patriotic songs, bringing alive the fervor and resilience of the nation. Children performed vibrant dance and poem recitals, capturing the audience’s imagination and underscoring the role of the younger generation in carrying forward India’s cultural heritage. Group songs presented by the Indian community members filled the atmosphere with a vibration of patriotism.

The Embassy also organized the popular “Selfie with Tiranga” initiative, where attendees captured photographs with the Tricolor, symbolizing personal pride and national identity. This activity encouraged community participation and strengthened the bonds between Indian expatriates and local Guatemalans, reflecting the shared respect for cultural heritage and the spirit of international friendship. The initiative was particularly well-received, with many attendees expressing their excitement and pride in being part of a collective celebration that transcended borders.

As part of the commemoration, the Embassy also curated a special exhibition on ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’, providing visitors with a poignant insight into one of the most tragic yet defining moments in India’s modern history. The exhibition featured photographs, narratives, and documented accounts of the immense suffering and resilience shown by millions during the Partition of 1947. The Embassy also organized a special exhibition on Tiranga to depict the history of the Indian National Flag. The Exhibition played crucial role in promoting the initiative of Har Ghar Tiranga. Visitors, including members of the Indian community and Guatemalan friends, showed great interest in learning about the journey of the Tiranga, which stands today as a powerful emblem of India’s unity and identity.

For the first time in Guatemala, two prominent landmarks—the head office of Banco Industrial (BI) and the historic Central Post Office Palace—were illuminated in the colors of the Indian Tricolor as part of the Independence Day celebrations. This gesture, a symbol of friendship and growing bonds between India and Guatemala, evoked immense pride among the Indian community and admiration from local citizens. The vibrant illumination of these iconic buildings not only showcased India’s rich heritage but also reflected the deepening goodwill between the two nations.

The celebration concluded with the serving of authentic Indian cuisines, offering guests a delightful culinary experience. The celebration of Independence Day at the Embassy of India in Guatemala successfully conveyed the essence of patriotism, unity, and cultural pride. By bringing together members of the Indian community and local friends of India, the event reinforced bilateral ties and showcased India’s values and traditions in a global context. It was not only a commemoration of India’s independence but also a celebration of the enduring friendship between India and Guatemala, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.

(Based on a press release issued by the Embassy of India in Guatemala)