Communities across Wales will join millions of people around the world on 15 August to celebrate the 80th anniversary of India's Independence Day.
India's Independence Day commemorates the country's independence in 1947 and is one of its most significant national holidays. The occasion is marked by flag raising ceremonies, cultural performances, music, dance and community gatherings, celebrating India's rich heritage and the contribution of Indian communities both at home and overseas.
The Indian community has long played an important role in Wales, enriching the country's cultural, economic and community life. Through festivals, events and community initiatives, strong connections continue to grow between Wales and India, bringing people together and celebrating shared values of diversity, culture and inclusion.
One of the main celebrations in Wales will take place at the India Centre in Cardiff on Saturday 15 August. The evening will begin with a flag raising ceremony, followed by the Indian and Welsh national anthems, cultural performances by children and a community dinner.
The India Centre is the oldest and largest Indian community centre in Wales. It hosts more than 100 cultural, spiritual and community events each year and is home to the only resident Hindu priest in Wales. The centre is also well known for its annual Diwali Mela, held in partnership with Amgueddfa Cymru at St Fagans National Museum of History, which attracts more than 4,000 visitors each year.
As India celebrates 80 years of independence, the anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise the achievements and contributions of Indian communities in Wales while celebrating the enduring friendship and growing relationship between Wales and India.