By: Vandana Jhingan

The 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated across Washington State and the US Northwest with a series of official recognitions, cultural events, and diplomatic initiatives. The Washington State Senate passed Resolution SR-8674 in Olympia, honoring India’s democratic traditions, the contributions of Indian Americans, and shared priorities in trade, agriculture, technology, and emerging sectors. Sponsored by Indian American Senator Manka Dhingra and supported by Senator Vandana Slatter, the resolution received bipartisan approval, marking a historic acknowledgment by the legislature.

Several Northwest states, including Alaska, Nebraska, Oregon, South Dakota, and Washington, issued proclamations celebrating India’s Republic Day. Leaders including Governors Greg Gianforte, Larry Rhoden, and Jim Pillen, as well as Bill Gates and US Rep. Kim Schrier, extended congratulations and highlighted India’s innovation and bilateral collaboration.

On Jan 26, the Indian Consulate hosted a flag unfurling atop Seattle’s Federal Reserve building, featuring excerpts from India’s President’s address. The occasion was attended by Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and a 30-member delegation from Montana. The new co-located Indian Consular Application Center was inaugurated, enhancing operational efficiency for consular services.

Cultural performances included patriotic songs, traditional Kuchipudi and Bharatnatyam dances, and a showcase of eight classical Indian dance forms. The evening concluded with a grand reception at Bell Harbor Conference Center, attended by First Lady Colleen Ferguson, Lt Gen Matthew W. McFarlane, Attorney General Nick Brown, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, Seattle Deputy Mayor Brian Surratt, Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes, and other city and tribal leaders.

Six newly elected Indian American city council members were recognized, and the One District One Product exhibition from all 28 Indian states was showcased, highlighting India’s cultural and economic heritage.