From spicy street food, to beating drums and colourful dance, the tastes, sounds and spirit of South Asia are being celebrated across Parramatta as the City marks 75 years of Indian independence.
Next Monday, August 15, City of Parramatta Council will host a flag raising ceremony at Jubilee Park in Parramatta’s CBD, with Lord Mayor Donna Davis to be joined by the Consul-General of India, Manish Gupta for the special event.
Cr Davis said the City of Parramatta is home to the largest population of Indian and South Asian people in Australia, with more than 29,000 residents identifying India as their country of birth in the 2021 Census.
“Our South Asian communities are an integral part of our City,” Cr Davis said.
“The event allows our communities to connect with their homeland and embrace the traditions of their Indian culture. We are proud to fly the Indian national flag to mark this momentous occasion.”
Council’s Parramatta’s Heritage and Visitor Centre has also created an Indian Independence Day online experience which features photos and local stories.
From Friday, Council will switch on an electrifying lighting installation through Harris Park and along the banks of the Parramatta River as part of a six-month program supporting local South Asian businesses and culture.
Marion Street will feature two decorated arches while an array of colourful lights will illuminate Parramatta River from the Ferry Terminal to Lennox Bridge until October 30.
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.