Mayor Dave Hodgson invited Bandhan, a diverse group of women of Indian origin, to raise the Indian flag on Indian Independence Day in Bedford Town Centre. Bandhan accepted the invitation and collaborated with other Bedford based community, charity, voluntary organisations and interfaith groups to organise the Indian Independence Day celebrations. Over 300 people met at 7.30am on 15 August to witness the raising of the Indian flag both in Harpur Square and then at the Old Town Hall.
To commemorate the event, Her Excellency Ruchi Ghanashyam, High Commissioner of India to UK travelled to Bedford on the most important date in the Indian calendar to raise the Indian flag. Professor Gurch Randhawa, Deputy Lieutenant for Bedfordshire, Mohammad Yasin, MP and Meryl Dolling, High Sheriff of Bedfordshire also joined the formal proceedings in the morning. Both MP and the Deputy Lieutenant highlighted the important contribution that the Indian community has made to Bedfordshire’s thriving and diverse community.
This sentiment was echoed by Dr Vinita Manjure, chairperson of Bandhan who said “It is a matter of great pride that we have transcended the barriers of culture, language, states and religion to congregate at the Harpur Square on this glorious August morning, together in solidarity and united in our joint endeavour to do good,”
Some of Bedford’s Indian talent and cultural diversity was showcased through a variety of performances from 21st Century Education Trust, Sandhya Rao school of music, Nritham Dance Academy, NRI Music and Ananda Arts.
Following the morning’s formal activities the community reconvened in the evening at Harpur Suite to continue their celebrations.
Dave Hodgson, Mayor of Bedford Borough said, “It was great to see so many people joining in the celebrations to mark Indian Independence Day in Bedford.
“Well done to Bandhan Bedford and everyone involved in bringing local people together, along with the Indian High Commissioner, for this special occasion.”
