Joint celebration of Independence

For the first time in history, India and South Korea together celebrated their common Independence Day on a single stage through  a cultural programme ‘Jashn-e-Azadi’ organised by Nehru Bal Sangh (NBS) in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium recently in the national Capital.

Renowned persons such as producer and director Ramesh Sippy, TV actor Kiran Juneja, Noble laureate Kailash Satyarthi, Shammi Narang, former CM of Delhi Shiela Dikshit, the ambassador of South Korea, Hyun CHO were facilitated by Ashok Sahota, President of NBS, with flowers.

The ceremonial lamp was lit by Kailash Satyarthi and the event started with thunderous applause. The event brought several plays depicting the Indian history and cultural of South Korea.  Indian artists performed on various patriotic songs and plays like ‘Jai Hind’, ‘Jis Lahore Nhi Dekheya O Jamiya Hi Nhi’, ‘Chand Roz Aur Meri Jaan’, ‘Azadi –the birth of a nation’, ‘1857-India’s War for Independence’ and energetic Taekwondo performance was demonstrated by Korean artists. Recent winners of ‘K-POP 2016’ India also showcased their singing and dancing talent on the platform.

“Independence day needs to be celebrated rather than being enjoyed as a holiday. The focus is to make youngsters understand the true meaning of Independence and engage in the celebrations. This in turn, will also make others follow it,” said Ashok Sahota, President of NBS.

Remembering the support of India to South Korea during the phase of Second World War His Excellence Hyun Cho - Ambassador of Republic of Korea to India thanked all the Indians. He said that both the countries have got their independence during the same time and have faced similar difficulties. It is good to see that even today both the countries are supporting each other in terms of business and trade, education, culture and in many other segments.

The event showcased the rich and diverse culture of both the countries aiming to encourage and motivate youngsters not to celebrate Independence Day as a festival but be grateful to our freedom fighters and celebrate every day as Independence Day. On this occasion Kim Kum Pyong, Director, Korean Culture Centre India said, “I am happy that we are celebrating our Independence Day with India. Through this kind of Co-operative celebration, we are looking to strengthen the relationship between India and Korea and pave the way for an everlasting friendship for the coming generations”.

Jashan-e-Azadi is an effort to spread the values of love, patriotism and national unity and to bring together the youth of the country to draw them into building a civilized India.