Winnipeg: Manitoba Hindu Seniors Inc. celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day with great pride and enthusiasm at its centre on Ellice Avenue, bringing together seniors, community leaders, professionals, families, and youth from the Indo-Canadian community. The event marked the adoption of the Constitution of India and reaffirmed the shared values of democracy, unity, justice, and global responsibility. Despite extreme sub-zero temperatures ranging from –25°C to –30°C, the celebration reflected the community’s resilience and strong cultural commitment.
The programme was smoothly conducted by Mr Vijay Prabhakar, Vice-President of the organisation, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. The event began with a welcome address by Secretary Ms Kamlesh Arora, followed by a prayer and a respectful Land Acknowledgement.
The formal proceedings commenced with the singing of the Indian National Anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” led by students of the Dr Madhuri Jain Vidya Bhavan Hindi School, Winnipeg. The audience stood in honour of the Tricolour, creating a deeply patriotic atmosphere.
The cultural segment featured inspiring performances, including “Vande Mataram” by Krutika Girish, patriotic speeches by Parth Pahwa and Meher Pahwa, and a soulful Hindi patriotic song performed by students under the guidance of Ms Suvira Prashar. A powerful Punjabi patriotic song, “O Duniya De Bandio,” was presented by Ms Suresh Kumari, adding to the emotional depth of the event.
The highlight of the programme was the keynote address by Mr Avnish Jolly, Barrister and Solicitor, Winnipeg, who spoke on the enduring relevance of Republic Day and the 200th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He emphasized Patel’s role as the chief architect of India’s unity and integrity, and described Republic Day as a living symbol of India’s courage, struggle, and constitutional values.
Mr Jolly reflected on India’s freedom struggle, recalling how Sardar Patel, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, led movements such as the Kheda and Bardoli Satyagrahas, proving that true leadership lies in sharing the people’s suffering. He highlighted the inclusive and multi-faith nature of India’s freedom movement, acknowledging contributions from leaders across religions and regions.
Quoting the Guru Granth Sahib, “मानस की जात सबै एकै पहचानबो,” Mr Jolly emphasized humanity and unity beyond all divisions. He also spoke on language and cultural preservation, drawing parallels between Indian languages and Indigenous cultures in Canada, stressing that language is memory, identity, and soul.
Addressing global responsibility, Mr Jolly discussed the Blue Economy and the Law of the Sea, calling for cooperation between the Global North and South to protect oceans and sustain livelihoods. He concluded by invoking “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, India’s vision of the world as one family, and paid tribute to the Indian diaspora in Canada for its resilience, hard work, and cultural pride.
Following the keynote, the audience was moved by a patriotic Hindi poetry recitation by Dr Narinder Pahwa, a lively Punjabi song “Koka” by Myra Goyal, and an energetic group dance by the Rhythm Dance Group, trained by Swati Pohenkar. Patriotic poetry by Ms Divya Pahwa and a soulful rendition of “Chhodo Kal Ki Baatein, Kal Ki Baat Purani” by Pratibha Bhalla and others added to the spirit of the evening. Senior members Mr Mahender Patel and Mr Bhadresh Bhatt received special appreciation for their melodious singing performances.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mrs Ganga Dakshina Murti, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, performers, volunteers, and supporters. The celebration ended with a renewed collective commitment to constitutional values, human dignity, unity, and global responsibility.
