Celebrating the independence of India has brought two countries together, say event organisers.
Today marked 76 years since India was made independent from the UK.
The Hampshire Indian Community (HIC) gathered outside the Civic Centre in Southampton to celebrate the occasion.
But organisers say the date is about more than independence.
Jit Navi, chairman of the HIC, said: “The purpose of this group, which was started last year, was community cohesion and bringing people together.
“We bring our cultural differences together for one platform.
“Today, we are celebrating the 76th anniversary of India's independence from the UK.
“We are celebrating independence with the UK government and that’s the perfect example of cohesion and community, and that’s what our aim is as the HIC.”
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The day was marked with a flag-raising ceremony outside the Civic Centre, cultural performances, and, of course, Indian snacks.
Harmeet Singh Brar, ambassador for HIC, said: “It’s been 76 years since India was made independent from the UK, and what a long way we have come since then.
“Who even thought that all those years ago the Civic Centre would be lifting the Indian flag?
“There are Indian people in Southampton - in business and education.
“There is so much that combines our countries together today.
“This celebration combines the cultures of our two countries together forever.”
Councillor Toqeer Kataria, cabinet member for communities and leisure, was also in attendance.
He said Tuesday’s event was ‘fantastic’.
Cllr Kataria said: “I am a councillor for one of the most diverse wards in Southampton – Bevois.
“It’s fantastic to have this celebration event organised today and having the Indian flag raised outside the Civic Centre to celebrate 76 years of Indian independence.
“People from India feel they are an integral part of the city, and they have made Southampton their home and contributed a lot to the city.
“We are a city of sanctuary; we welcome people in this community and work with them to understand one another and our cultures and diversity.”
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