MELBOURNE, 25 April 2024: ANZAC Day 2024, was today marked with enthusiasm and gaiety at the Indian Consulate, across the road from the Shrine of Remembrance at the St. Kilda Road. The Indian Army ANZAC veteran families with their medals today marched in the ANZAC Day parade with many other contingents carrying their banners, the Indian tricolour and wearing smart dresses. They were cheered with claps as they walked in tandem waving at crowds (including some Indians) on both the sides of the road.
Later they went to the nearby Indian Consulate where they were welcomed and feted, starting with a welcome speech by India’s Consul General, Dr. Sushil Kumar, who said the histories of Australia ands India were intervened in the battlefields of Gallipoli where the British Indian Army fought alongside the Australian and New Zealand armies. He paid tributes to the heroes of Gallipoli. Is is a legacy of camaraderie, bravery, and resilience that laid the foundation of Forces that fought together. The contribution of Indian soldiers in Gallipoli were substantial and vital, he said. Dr. Sushil Kumar’s full speech:
The army veterans and their families then enjoyed live patriotic songs and Indian lunch. This was for the first time such an event on ANZAC Day was observed in the Indian Consulate. There was lots of networking and photographs taken. The glitter of proudness was on the faces of the army veterans who enjoyed the historical day. No doubt, the spirit of ANZAC Day 2024 spiced up the Indian Consulate.
