Indian diaspora in Houston celebrates 80th Independence Day with fervour

The Indian diaspora in Houston celebrated India's 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour, joining the Consulate General of India for a flag-hoisting ceremony. The Chancery premises were adorned with marigold garlands and tricolour bunting. Despite the heat, the crowd sang Vande Mataram in unison before Consul General D C Manjunath hoisted the national flag amid a shower of flower petals and a mass rendition of Jana Gana Mana.

Consul General Manjunath read out President Draupadi Murmu's address and urged active engagement in India's journey toward 'Viksit Bharat'. The event featured patriotic songs, an exhibition of paintings on the same theme, and felicitation of winners of the 'Bharat Ko Janiye' quiz. A delegation of elected officials, including University of Houston Chancellor Renu Khator and Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong, presented proclamations.

Later, Manjunath joined community leaders at the O P Jindal Center at India House Houston for an outdoor ceremony with a four-flag hoisting: the Indian tricolour, US flag, Texas state flag, and India House banner. The day ended with cultural presentations and a reception, marked by pride and unity across the Houston Indian-American community.