A GROUP from one of Reading’s largest ethnic groups took to the streets to mark a significant date in their calendar.
India celebrated 75 years of independence on Monday, August 15, with residents organising a mass bike ride to commemorate the landmark occasion.
More than 100 cyclists young and old took to the streets of the town dressed in green, white and orange, the colours of the Indian flag.
Commonly known as the Tiranga, the Hindi word for tricolour, the flag set the theme of the event, which was aptly named the Tiranga Ride.
Starting at the University of Reading’s Whiteknights campus, the group made their way across the grounds and through the streets of Earley.
They completed the ride at Carnival Fields Park in Maiden Place, where over 200 spectators greeted them waving Indian flags and singing traditional songs.
On this day in 1947, India secured independence from the United Kingdom. The nation had been under the control of the British Crown since 1858.
The event was organised by resident Ritesh Nigam, who was keen to celebrate the occasion and garnered interest through social media.
He said: “India’s independence day celebration recognises the importance of freedom, freedom to live, love, express our thoughts and freedom to have a free mind and move forward.
“With many people settling in our community from Hong Kong and unfortunately displaced from Ukraine and Afghanistan, the importance of freedom can’t be stressed more.
“As we celebrate India’s 75th year of independence and those celebrating Pakistan’s independence day, the message is loud and clear: there is light at the end of the tunnel, that’s where freedom awaits.”
A rousing rendition of the Indian national anthem and other patriotic songs brought the evening to a close.
Visitors went home inspired and proud of their heritage and the achievements of those who came before.
The organisers shared their heartfelt gratitude towards all those who participated in what they described as ‘an unforgettable evening’.
They have promised to return next year with a bigger and better event.
