SAN FRANCISCO (Diya TV) —  Greeting India on its 70th Independence Day was U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, who reaffirmed the country’s pledge to working towards ensuring freedom and justice for “all within our great democracies.”

“On behalf of President (Barack) Obama and the American people, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of India as you celebrate your Independence Day on August 15,” Kerry said.

Celebrations in New York including a special hoisting of the Indian flag.
Celebrations in New York including a special hoisting of the Indian flag.

 

“As India celebrates Independence Day, we recommit to working to ensure freedom and justice for all within our great democracies,” he said in a statement. “When Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the United States Congress this past June, he remarked that “the traits of freedom and liberty form a strong bond between our two democracies.” It is worth remembering this today as India celebrates its independence,” he said.

Multiple celebrations were held across the U.S. Monday, with the largest gatherings being reported in Fremont, Calif. and Edison, N.J. The celebrations came complete with marching bands and the large mass of cultural colors the nation is known for. Across the nation, spanning from Dallas to Houston to Orlando and Minneapolis, community organizations held events over the weekend to mark the independence. Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Arun K Singh held an event in Washington D.C., as well as other Indian diplomats in the cities of Chicago, Atlanta and San Francisco.

In New York, the Indian American community will gather on Sunday to watch the India Day Parade, giving recognition to the nation’s seven-decade span of independence. It will start on 26th St. and Madison Ave., and marchers will travel down Madison Ave. where there will be a review stand on 25th St. and Madison Ave.

Additionally, Minister of State for External Affairs M.J. Akbar was an honorary guest of the New York Stock Exchange, ringing the evening’s closing bell as part of the festivities.

At the United Nations, a photo exhibition is being held to commemorate the birth centenary of India’s Carnatic music legend Dr. M.S. Subbulakshmi through the 19. Incidentally, the U.N. are also celebrating its 70th anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his third Independence Speech Monday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his third Independence Speech Monday.

 

Back in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave his third annual speech from the iconic Red Fort in New Delhi. During his speech, Modi touched on a multitude of topics ranging from Kashmir and Baluchistan and thanked the people of the regions for their continued support.