In pictures: India Independence Day celebrations in Birmingham, including Mayor Andy Street visit

India celebrated its 76th Independence Day having gained freedom from colonial rule on August 15, 1947. In Birmingham, the Consulate General of India hosted a day of festivities and flag hoisting, which was attended by West Midlands Combined Authority Mayor Andy Street.

The day began with hoisting the Indian tricolour flag and was followed by cultural performances from people from the community. The Indian community came out in big numbers for the lively event where children sang, danced, and a special sporting team was honoured.

The Indian Women’s Blind Football team is currently in Birmingham for the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games 2023. The 2023 IBSA World Games are due to take place between 14-27 August 2023 and will include Archery, Chess, Cricket, Blind Football, Partially Sighted Football, Women’s Football, Goalball (Male/Female), Judo, Powerlifting, Showdown, Ten Pin Bowling, and Tennis.

The Indian Women’s Blind Football team tasted their first victory yesterday (August 14) by beating Austria. Akshara Rana, a 12-year-old striker from Uttarakhand in northern India, made the winning goal. She attended the Indian Independence Day festivities along with her team today (August 15).

But, that’s not all as the Library of Birmingham will be lit up in orange, white and green to mark the 76th anniversary of India’s independence tonight. Here are 11 photos from the celebrations in Birmingham: