The states of Washington and Nebraska have declared August 15, 2026, as India Day in celebration of India’s 80th Independence Day. This recognition comes from the governors of multiple states, including Washington, South Dakota, Montana, and Alaska, who also extended their warm wishes prior to a special flag-raising ceremony set for that date in Seattle, according to reports from the Consulate General of India in Seattle.
Mayors from Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, and Si-Tac, along with the King County Council—which represents 39 areas within the Greater Seattle region—issued similar proclamations. These announcements acknowledged the significant contributions made by Indian Americans in various fields such as innovation, entrepreneurship, education, and the arts.
Governor Greg Gianforte of Montana praised the Indian and Indian-American communities for enriching the state’s cultural and economic landscape. In Alaska, Governor Mike Dunleavy highlighted their vital role in strengthening the economy, schools, healthcare, and local businesses. Meanwhile, South Dakota Governor Larry Rouden expressed a desire to enhance the friendship between the peoples of the U.S. and India.
Washington State Senator Maria Cantwell sent greetings to the participants of the celebration. U.S. Representative Adam Smith underscored the importance of collaboration between the U.S. and India, while Congresswoman Kim Schrier acknowledged the significant impact of the Indian-American community in Washington State.
As part of the upcoming festivities, the consulate shared a musical rendition of “Vande Mataram,” featuring Grammy Award-winning violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan and students from the Swara Yoga Ensemble. The flag-raising ceremony will take place at the Federal Reserve Building in Seattle, with attendance from U.S. officials and members of the Indian-American community.
India gained its independence from British rule on August 15, 1947.
