18/08/2026
The Consulate General of India, Sydney, organised a grand Reception to celebrate the 80th Independence Day of India on 16 August 2026 at the Darling Harbour Theatre, International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney.
Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales and the Honourable Chris Minns, 47th Premier of New South Wales honoured the reception as Chief Guests. Among other distinguished dignitaries include the Honourable Kellie Anne Sloane, MP and several Members of NSW Parliament, Co-chairs of NSW Parliamentary Friends of India - Hon'ble Warren Kirby and Hon'ble Gurmesh Singh, Consular Corps in NSW, Indian community and CEOs and Business leaders, and prominent political leaders attended the reception. The grand celebrations was attended by over 2,000 guests. attended the reception.
Dr. S Janakiraman Consul General of India and his spouse received the dignitaries and guests at the Reception. He later opened the celebrations of the 80th Independence Day of India and gave a welcome address.
In their addresses, the Hon’ble Governor, the Hon’ble Premier, and the Hon’ble Opposition Leader lauded the strong bilateral relationship and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting trade, cultural, and people-to-people ties between India and Australia.
The cultural programme featured a special “One-Line Exhibition” showcasing iconic monuments of both nations; vibrant cultural performances by winners and runners of the 3rd Talent Show Competition held in July 2026: Raunakaan Bhangra Group, Nartan Institute of Performing Arts, Svasti Kuchipudi Natyalaya, Nityakalashestra Fine Arts Academy, Groovex Dance Academy, and SVN Academy; energetic drum performances by the Indoz Rhymes Group and Shivagarjana Sydney Group; a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram by Ms. Gayatri Bharat and her ensemble; and a fireside chat with former Australian cricket star Shane Watson, who discussed the growing synergy between Indian and Australian sports and entertainment sectors as a key figure leading the International Masters League from the Australian side.