In A First, Indian Tricolour Hoisted Atop Seattle’s Iconic Space Needle

Seattle witnessed a historic moment on Friday (15 August) when the Indian Tricolour soared above the city’s iconic 605-foot Space Needle for the first time, reported Times Of India.

Consul General of India in Seattle, Prakash Gupta, joined Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and city leaders participated in the event.

Sharing the milestone online, the Indian consulate in Seattle wrote, “A historic first in Seattle! India’s tricolour soars the Seattle skyline. Happy 79th Independence Day of India.”

Gupta added on social media, “There is no greater honour than hoisting the Tiranga atop Seattle’s Space Needle. Jai Hind! Wishing everyone a Happy Independence Day.”

The consulate also hosted a community reception at Kerry Park, with the Space Needle in the backdrop.

A large Indian American community turnout celebrated the occasion.

US dignitaries, including Congressman Adam Smith, Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra L Stephens, Seattle Port Commissioner Sam Cho, and Seattle Parks and Recreation Director AP Diaz, attended.

Smith remarked that the tricolour hoisting symbolised the Pacific Northwest’s diversity and highlighted strong India-US ties.

In a special gesture, King County—comprising 39 cities—along with Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue, proclaimed 15 August as “India Day.”

Iconic Seattle landmarks, including Lumen Field, T-Mobile Park, the Westin, and the Seattle Great Wheel, lit up in tricolour.

The Indian flag also rose at the Tacoma Dome, City Hall, and the headquarters of Tacoma’s Police and Fire Departments.

India opened its sixth consulate in Seattle in November 2023, further strengthening engagement with the US Pacific Northwest.

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