Embassy of India

Embassy of India

Thimphu

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Press Release

Celebrations of the 77^th Independence Day of India in Bhutan

The 77^th Independence Day of India was celebrated with patriotic fervour at a ceremony held in the morning of 15 August 2023 at the Embassy of India, Thimphu. Ambassador of India to Bhutan Sudhakar Dalela led the Indian community to unfurl the tricolour at the India House followed by singing of the National Anthem. Ambassador read out the President’s Address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day, which focused on developmental strides made by India, and presented a vision for all round progress of India in the ‘Amrit Kaal' and making India an inclusive and developed nation by the year 2047.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Dalela shared that India and Bhutan enjoy long-standing close and unique ties of friendship and cooperation, which are anchored in spiritual and cultural linkages, mutual trust and understanding, and cemented by strong people to people connect. He emphasized that India is committed to working together with the Government and people of Bhutan to harnessing the full potential of our partnership, and exploring newer avenues of cooperation that align with the vision of His Majesty, The King of Bhutan and the priorities of Royal Government.   

From the Royal Government of Bhutan, Dasho Ugyen K Namgyel, Gyalpoi Zimpon to His Majesty, the King of Bhutan along with the Cabinet Secretary Aum Kesang Deki, Foreign Secetary Aum Pema Choden and the Chief of Protocol Ugen Chuzom participated in the ceremony.

The ceremony was followed by a melodious rendition of patriotic songs by Bhutanese and Indian artists from the Nehru-Wangchuck Culture Center. An ICCR dance troupe led by Utpal Jyoti Borah performed Bihu and Sattriya - folk and classical dance forms from the State of Assam. The cultural performances witnessed enthusiastic participation by the members of the Indian community and friends of India in Bhutan.

To mark the year 2023 as the ‘International Year of Millets’, a variety of Indian millet products were displayed at a special stall.

The ceremony was attended by over 800 members of the Indian community, and friends of India.

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Thimphu

15 August 2023