The 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated by the High Commission of India (HCI) and the Indian community in the United Kingdom, reaffirming pride in the Constitution and the nation’s democratic spirit.
This year’s observance was particularly significant as it also marked “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” the national song that continues to inspire unity and patriotism.
In the morning on Monday, ceremony commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag and the singing of the National Anthem, followed by Indian High Commissioner to the UK, HE Vikram Doraiswami, reading excerpts from the President’s Address to the Nation. His remarks highlighted the enduring values of the Constitution and acknowledged the contributions of Indians both at home and abroad in shaping a united and confident Bharat.
The cultural programme showcased India’s rich artistic heritage, featuring a sitar recital by Mehboob Nadeem, a violin performance by Aparna Raghuraman, and a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram by Tanusree Guha, Rupsha Chatterjee, and Satarupa Ghosh, which was joined by all attendees to commemorate the National Song.
Later in the evening, the High Commission of India also held a reception at the historic Guildhall in London, bringing together friends of India to celebrate the values of constitutional democracy and the nation’s journey. The evening began on a festive note with dhol and Bhangra performances welcoming the Chief Guest, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, who highlighted India’s democratic example to the world, rooted in its diversity and vibrant spirit.
The reception was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, the UK Parliament and Government, business, media, and the Indian diaspora, including CB Patel, Editor and Publisher of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, as well as MPs Shailesh Vara and Barry Gardiner. The gathering reflected India’s emergence as a confident, modern nation and underscored the strength of the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership across trade, technology, innovation, education and defence.
In his address, High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami described Republic Day as a moment to reflect on India’s constitutional journey and its forward-looking path defined by aspiration and vitality. He noted that 2025 was a landmark year in India–UK relations, marked by historic prime ministerial visits and the signing of an ambitious Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. Addressing the gathering, Sir Lindsay Hoyle also praised the Indian diaspora as a living bridge between the two countries and spoke of a promising future for India–UK ties, driven by strong people-to-people links and cooperation across key sectors.
