Mayor Domenic J. Sarno joined on Sunday with Raj Rayonia, Dinesh Patel, the Indian Association of Greater Springfield, and hundreds of members of the Indian and Indian-American community from Springfield and beyond to celebrate 75 years of Indian Independence. On August 15, 1947, India became an independent nation after over 200 years of British-rule. Springfield is now home to a vibrant Indian community and Indians and Indian-Americans are a vital part of our city and country. Mayor Sarno issued a proclamation declaring August 15, 2022 India Independence Day in the City of Springfield and joined on Monday to raise, for the first time, the Indian flag at City Hall.
Mayor Sarno stated, “I am so grateful to our friends in Springfield’s Indian Community, especially my friends Dinesh Patel and Raj Rayonia, for hosting these vibrant and colorful celebrations to mark this milestone 75th anniversary of Indian Independence. What an honor it is to be part of the first ever raising of the Indian Flag at City Hall. Our Springfield has long been home to a thriving Indian community and we are proud to join them to celebrate their heritage, culture, and independence.”