Archbishop Peter Machado Leads 80th Independence Day Celebration with Flag Hoisting and Prayer for the Country

The Archbishop's House resonated with patriotic spirit on the morning of 15 August 2026 as the 80th Independence Day of India was celebrated with great joy and reverence. The celebration brought together the Clergy Home Fathers, priests residing at the Archbishop's House & Paalanaa Bhavana, Religious Sisters, and the residents of the Shelter Home, who gathered as one family to thank God for the precious gift of freedom and to pray for the peace, unity, and prosperity of the nation.

The programme was gracefully compered by Fr. George Negomias, who led the celebration with inspiring reflections, reminding everyone of the significance of Independence Day and the responsibility of every citizen to contribute towards the growth of the nation.

The celebration commenced with a speech by Br. Daniel, who recalled with gratitude the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and all those who shed their blood for India's freedom. He reminded the gathering that the gift of independence calls each one to become an instrument of peace, unity, and development, working together to build a stronger and more compassionate nation.

The highlight of the celebration was the hoisting of the National Flag by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore. As the tricolour fluttered proudly in the morning breeze, the entire gathering stood in reverence and sang the National Anthem, expressing their gratitude and love for the motherland.

In his Independence Day message, Archbishop Peter Machado reflected on India's greatest strength—its young people. He observed that India is becoming younger and younger, and that the future of the nation rests in the hands of its youth. Encouraging everyone to nurture the younger generation with values, faith, education, and a spirit of service, he said:

"The youth are not merely the future of India; they are the strength that shapes its present. When our young people are formed with faith, values, and a commitment to serve, they become the builders and transformers of our nation."

The Archbishop also led the gathering in a special prayer for the country, invoking God's blessings upon India, its leaders, its citizens, and especially its youth. Entrusting the nation to the loving care of God, he prayed for lasting peace, justice, harmony, and prosperity, before imparting his blessings upon the entire country.

The celebration concluded on a note of gratitude and hope, inspiring everyone to cherish the sacrifices of the past while dedicating themselves to building a stronger, united, and value-based India for generations to come.