The states of Washington and Nebraska have declared August 15, 2026, India Day
The states of Washington and Nebraska have proclaimed August 15, 2026, as India Day to mark the country’s 80th Independence Day. The governors of Washington, South Dakota, Montana, and Alaska also sent official greetings ahead of the flag-raising ceremony scheduled for August 15 in Seattle, NDTV World reports, citing the Consulate General of India in Seattle.
Similar proclamations were issued by the mayors of Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, and Si-Tac, as well as by the King County Council, which comprises 39 municipalities in the Greater Seattle metropolitan area. The proclamations highlighted the contributions of Americans of Indian descent to innovation, entrepreneurship, education, the arts, and professional endeavors.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte emphasized the role of the Indian and Indian-American communities in the state’s cultural, educational, and economic life. Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy noted their contributions to the economy, schools, the healthcare system, business, and local communities. South Dakota Governor Larry Rouden expressed his hope for further strengthening of the friendship between the peoples of the United States and India.
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Washington State Senator Maria Cantwell sent her greetings to those participating in the celebrations. U.S. Representative Adam Smith emphasized the importance of cooperation between the U.S. and India, while Kim Schrier highlighted the role of the Indian-American community in the cultural, educational, and economic life of Washington State. Greetings were also extended by Representatives Dusty Johnson, Michael Baumgartner, Susan Delben, and Marilyn Strickland.
In the lead-up to the event, the consulate released a musical performance of “Vande Mataram” featuring Grammy Award-winning violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan and students from the Swara Yoga Ensemble. A ceremony to raise the Indian flag was scheduled to take place at the Federal Reserve Building in Seattle, with the participation of U.S. officials and representatives of the Indian-American community.
India gained independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947.
