Press Release

Celebration of the 80th Independence Day of India at the Netherlands

The 80th Independence Day of India was celebrated with patriotic fervour at India House on Saturday, 15 August 2026. 

The programme commenced with the singing of Vande Mataram, national song of India.  H.E. Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr. Kumar Tuhin, hoisted the Indian Flag as part of the ‘Suryapath Tiranga’ campaign, a first-of-its-kind global relay of ceremonial flag-hoisting across 54 Indian Missions around the world including the Embassy of India in The Hague. As the Tiranga travelled from East to West, it carried the spirit of India across borders, bringing Indians worldwide together through shared symbol of unity, pride and national identity. 

This was followed by the rendition of the National Anthem and a reading of the address to the nation by the Hon’ble President of India on the occasion of Independence Day. 

A vibrant cultural programme celebrating India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage was also organised, featuring classical, folk and contemporary performances, including Kuchipudi, Bollywood and Bhangra, along with patriotic songs performed by local artists. 

      The Embassy of India organized various competitions in the run up to the Independence Day.  Winners of these competitions were also felicitated during the event. These included: 

1. Indian Traditional Attire for Women
2. Painting Competition for Children on a Patriotic Theme, organised at various locations across the Netherlands

• My India, My Story

1. Indian Festivals Through a Dutch Lens
2. Bharat ko Janiye Quiz 

An exhibition on national flag and national song was also displayed during the event. 

The celebrations concluded with light refreshments.  More than 900 community members and friends of India attended the event, making the 80th Independence Day celebrations at India House a memorable gathering marked by patriotism, cultural pride and a strong sense of community.

The Hague

15 August 2026

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