Ambassador Doraiswamy leads flag hoisting as India celebrates 80 years of freedom in China

The Indian Embassy in Beijing observed the 80th Independence Day on 15 August with a formal flag‑hoisting ceremony headed by Ambassador Vikram Doraiswamy. The event attracted diplomats, a sizable Indian expatriate community, Chinese nationals and guests from several other countries.

Following the flag raising, a group of Indian women performed "Vande Mataram" while the national anthem resonated throughout the compound. The ambassador then entered the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre auditorium to read key passages from President Droupadi Murmu’s address, underscoring that true freedom lies in providing every citizen the opportunity to fulfil their dreams and the ambition to position India as the world’s largest nation.

The address also paid homage to the bicentenary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, a pioneer of social justice, education and women’s empowerment. Children from the Indian community later sang a selection of patriotic songs, receiving certificates from the ambassador for their contributions.

Winners of recent competitions – the ICCR Hindustani instrumental talent contest, a "Know India" quiz, and the "Developed India" photo‑video challenge – were honoured with certificates.

Even a sudden downpour could not curtail the festivities; attendees savoured Indian snacks and tea, while the tricolour and balloons added a festive ambience. Across the globe, similar celebrations were held, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi.