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Jesna Chenthattel, 14, performs a traditional dance during India’s Independence Day celebrations in New Plymouth.
Nearly 300 members of Taranaki’s Indian community gathered on Saturday night to celebrate 75 years of Indian independence.
The event was held at St John Baptist Hall in New Plymouth and began with the raising of the flag, said Ashwani Kumar, president of the New Plymouth Indian Community.
And then there were cultural activities, including dancing.
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Isabelle Shinoj (11 years) in the back and Ashi Kumar (11 years) took part in the cultural activities.
And the kids performed. We had a community award that we give out every year. This year we wanted to make it special and honor the ladies who have helped the Indian community over the past maybe 20 years.”
Indian Independence Day is very important to the Indian community, especially this year as it marked the 75th, he said.
“It’s great to remember and celebrate.”
The evening ended with a meal, he said.
“A lot of curries. Everyone had a good party.”
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Ashwani Kumar, president of the new Plymouth Indian Community, was pleased with the turnout at the celebrations.
The Indian community in Taranaki has really grown, Kumar said.
“A few years ago we had a very small number, but a lot of migrants come from abroad and from Auckland and other regions, so the Indian community is growing. It’s about 1500 plus.”