Bill Gates, Chairman of the Gates Foundation, flagged off the first-ever India Day celebrations in the Greater Seattle area as the Guest of Honour, coinciding with India’s 78th Independence Day.
Gates, in his address to the over 2,000-strong Indian American community, praised India as a global leader in technology, agriculture, and healthcare. He highlighted the nation’s contributions, from producing affordable vaccines to advancing digital public infrastructure, which are now being adopted by countries across the Global South.
The event saw participation from numerous distinguished figures, including Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, Congressman Adam Smith, Lt. General Xavier Brunson, Rear Admiral Mark Sucato, Washington Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, and Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs. Mayors from various cities including Bellevue, Tacoma, and Kent also graced the occasion.
The celebration was a vibrant display of India’s diverse culture, featuring floats and performances representing all regions of the country. Leaders of the Indian American community played a significant role in organising these cultural showcases, underscoring the theme of Unity in Diversity.
In recognition of the event, five official proclamations were issued by governments and city councils across Washington and Oregon. The iconic buildings in Seattle and Bellevue were illuminated in the tricolour, adding a symbolic touch to the festivities. Additionally, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon extended his congratulations on India’s Independence Day.