77th Republic Day of India Celebrated in Dublin with Enthusiastic Participation

The celebration began with the unfurling of the Indian Tricolour by the Ambassador of India to Ireland, H.E. Shri Akhilesh Mishra, followed by the reading of the Address to the Nation by the Hon’ble President of India. The solemn ceremony created a moment of reflection and pride, reminding everyone present of India’s democratic journey and the values enshrined in its Constitution.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Mishra emphasized that the true significance of Republic Day goes beyond ceremonial celebrations. He noted that the occasion serves as an opportunity for all Indians, both at home and abroad, to re-dedicate themselves to the values and ideals of the Constitution, which forms the foundation of Indian democracy and guarantees the rights and freedoms enjoyed by its citizens.

The Ambassador stressed that rights cannot exist in isolation and can only be sustained when citizens responsibly discharge their duties. Referring to the Preamble of the Constitution, he reminded the audience that it calls upon all Indians to promote fraternity and ensure the unity and integrity of the nation. He also highlighted the importance of the Fundamental Duties, which urge citizens to foster harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood that transcends religious, linguistic, regional, and sectional differences, while also safeguarding public property and rejecting violence.

Ambassador Mishra pointed out that for a country as diverse and pluralistic as India, internalizing constitutional ideals and applying them in everyday life is essential to building a peaceful, inclusive, and developed nation. He underlined that constitutional values are not merely legal principles but guiding forces that shape the moral and social fabric of the country.

Speaking on bilateral relations, Ambassador Mishra highlighted the remarkable growth in India-Ireland ties, particularly in the area of trade and economic cooperation. He noted that two-way bilateral trade crossed US $18 billion (approximately €16 billion) in 2024, a significant increase from about US $5 billion in 2021. This rapid growth reflects the deepening strategic and economic partnership between the two countries.

The Ambassador warmly acknowledged the contribution of the Indian community in Ireland, numbering around 100,000, in strengthening multi-dimensional bilateral relations. He praised the community for playing a vital role in promoting mutual understanding, goodwill, and cultural exchange between India and Ireland. He also appreciated the strong emotional and cultural connection maintained by the Indian diaspora with India.

Special recognition was given to women from the Indian community, whom the Ambassador described as exemplary contributors not only in professional spheres but also in voluntary and cultural efforts. He highlighted how many women are leading initiatives to preserve and pass on Indian languages, classical and folk dances, arts, and musical traditions from their respective regions to younger generations, ensuring that India’s rich cultural heritage continues to thrive abroad.

Ambassador Mishra also briefed the community on various initiatives undertaken by the Indian Embassy in Dublin, guided by the Government of India’s vision of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” In this context, he mentioned the successful hosting of 23 events under the Embassy’s State Cultural Series, aimed at showcasing the cultural richness of different Indian states while highlighting their potential in trade and tourism. He acknowledged that these initiatives were made possible through the active support and participation of artists and community members from across India.

The Republic Day celebration in Dublin thus stood as a meaningful reminder of India’s constitutional values, democratic spirit, and growing global partnerships, while also celebrating the vibrant role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening India’s presence on the world stage.