Immaculate Parade and Rich Cultural Pageantry Mark the Celebrations
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of India’s Independence, His Holiness Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami’s Ashram and its associated institutions celebrated Independence Day in a grand and befitting manner at the Statue of Equality.
A Historic Rendition of Vande Mataram
The celebrations began with a complete rendition of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s “Vande Mataram.” In a significant and perhaps unprecedented feature of the celebrations marking the song’s 150th anniversary, all six stanzas were rendered. The patriotic song, which inspired generations during India’s freedom struggle, has recently received renewed national attention.
Flag Hoisting and National Anthem
HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami hoisted the Tricolour on a towering flag mast that complemented the majestic Statue of Equality. The sight was symbolic, as though Bhagavad Ramanuja himself were casting His benign gaze from the lofty pedestal. The flag-hoisting was followed by the collective rendition of the National Anthem.
Impressive Parade and March-Past
The security contingent, led by Security Officer Sri Mohan Rao, presented an impressive parade and salute to HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami. This was followed by a march-past by the NCC contingent comprising students of Vedic Gurukulam. The Gurukulam students captivated the audience with displays of physical agility, discipline and gymnastics. However, the NCC contingent from Nethra Vidyalaya drew especially enthusiastic applause for its spirited and well-coordinated parade.
Vibrant Cultural Celebrations
The cultural programme began with an address and a patriotic song by students of JIVA Medical College, followed by a vibrant dance performance. Students of Nethra Vidyalaya presented a song-and-dance programme that was warmly received by the audience. The women members of the security team added a colourful touch to the celebrations with a lively Dhimsa tribal dance from the Araku region. The event also marked the conclusion of a 79 KM Walkathon from Dr Ambedkar statue to the Statue of Equality by Vikasa Tarangini volunteer Sri Phaneendra and his colleagues.
HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami’s Message
Addressing the gathering, Swamiji inspired the youth and every citizen to dedicate themselves to the development and progress of the nation. He urged them to be strong in health, strong in character, and soft and compassionate by nature.
Swamiji reminded that true strength is reflected not merely in physical or material power, but in the willingness to serve society, help those in need, respect others, and contribute selflessly to the nation. He paid rich tributes to the countless freedom fighters whose sacrifices secured India’s freedom and appreciated the efforts of the present national leadership, under Prime Minister Narender Modiji, to empower the youth to pursue their aspirations and realise their potential.
HH appreciated the achievements of Nethra Vidyalaya’s sports persons in national and international competitions and highlighted the recent accolades won by its sports continent in both national and international competitions. He also appreciated the valuable services rendered by Vikasa Tarangini volunteers in providing relief and support to people affected by natural disasters. He highlighted the work of Mahila Arogya Vikas in promoting health awareness among nearly 50 lakh women across the country.
The celebrations concluded on a festive note with the distribution of sweets as prasadam to the audience. Sri Swamiji offered his mangalasasanams to all those participants.
