Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne was presented with a plaque honoring the city in appreciation of its participation in the flag-raising event.

By Harry Kane

Indian Independence Day is celebrated on August 15, which began early in the City of Somerville, by hoisting a flag at the City Hall concourse for India Day on August 3, with the hope of fostering a strong Indian-American social, cultural, civic and community presence.

Tanu Phoenix, president of the India Association of Greater Boston, spoke about Indian values, such as respect, acceptance, empathy and love, at the onset of the ceremony, for India’s 78th anniversary of independence.

“When we talk about Indian values, we expect that it comprises of the basic human values,” Phoenix said. “Indian values are unique.”

There are 121 languages in India, and therefore, it is difficult to explain the culture, she said.

The Republic of India’s motto, Unity in Diversity, attempts to make sense of an array of complex traditions, different languages and ethnicities.

In India, Independence Day is celebrated with a festival. Next year, Phoenix says, she hopes to add more of a festival element to the flag-raising celebration.

“It is celebrated through music and dance,” she explained.

Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne spoke about the colors of the Indian flag. The flag, colloquially called Tiranga, is a tricolor flag, with India saffron, white and India Green. There is a navy blue, 24-spoke wheel, called the Ashoka Chakra, in the center.

The color saffron, Mayor Ballantyne says, indicates strength and courage.

“It reminds us of the courage it takes to strive for independence and democracy, and to do so peacefully,” Mayor Ballantyne said. “It also reminds us of the courage and determination it has taken for Indians to leave their home to build a new life here.”

The white part of the flag represents peace.

“Events such as this, where we gather to celebrate the heritage of our members in our community, build the understanding and mutual respect that is the foundation of peace,” Mayor Ballantyne said.

The green signifies fertility and growth.

“[The green] is the reminder of rich culture, innovation, community and achievements,” Mayor Ballantyne said.

Vijayendra Bhargava, executive director at IAGB, announced the American flag hoisting, followed by the Indian flag hoisting,

The national anthem of the Republic of India, Jana Gana Mana, translates to, Thou Art the Ruler of the Minds of All People.

Following the flag-raising part of the ceremony, IAGB members presented several gifts to Mayor Ballantyne.

The mayor was given a pink Indian shawl, plaque and certificate.

The plaque is an award of appreciation to the City of Somerville. It reads: “We at IAGB extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and invaluable contribution in commemorating India’s Independence Day. Your solidarity and involvement make these celebrations even more meaningful and special.”

The certificate was presented to the mayor after the plaque. The certificate reads: “India Association of Greater Boston presents the Community Alchemist Award to the City of Somerville, Massachusetts, for being an anchor city for the India flag-raising event hosted by IAGB.”

At the end of the ceremony, the mayor issued a proclamation, which states, August 3 is India Day in the City of Somerville.

“We encourage all residents to join the Indian community to commemorate and celebrate 78 years of India’s independence,” Mayor Ballantyne said.