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On this day, India pays tribute to the “Father of the Nation,” whose steadfast commitment to truth, non-violence, and civil disobedience played a pivotal role in the country’s struggle for independence.

Across the nation, schools, colleges, and government offices organise essay competitions, debates, and cultural programmes to honour Gandhi’s life and teachings. One of the most notable events on Gandhi Jayanti is the “Shanti Path” or “Peace March,” where individuals from all walks of life unite to walk in solidarity, promoting the values of peace, harmony, and non-violence that Gandhi championed throughout his lifetime.

Gandhi’s philosophy of simple living and self-sufficiency is also celebrated through exhibitions and demonstrations of traditional Indian crafts, such as khadi (hand-spun and hand-woven cloth), which he advocated as a means of economic self-reliance. Beyond India’s borders, Gandhi Jayanti is observed by people across the globe who have been inspired by his teachings and unwavering commitment to non-violent resistance against injustice and oppression. It serves as a powerful reminder of the influence of peaceful protest and the enduring legacy of one man’s vision for a better world.

On Independence Day, the streets of Funafuti, Tuvalu’s capital, come alive with vibrant celebrations. Colourful parades wind through the narrow streets, featuring traditional dance troupes in intricate costumes, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and the melodious strains of te anu, a traditional Tuvaluan singing style.

At the heart of the festivities is the Te Umanga-n-Alu at the Falekaupule (traditional meeting house), where dignitaries and community leaders gather to honour Tuvalu’s rich cultural heritage and the sacrifices made for independence. Speeches are delivered, paying tribute to the nation’s resilience and determination to protect its unique identity amidst modern challenges like climate change and rising sea levels. The celebrations extend to the beaches, where the people of Tuvalu unite to commemorate their freedom, strength, and enduring spirit.

Tuvalu’s Independence Day is not just a reflection of the past but a celebration of the present and a hopeful outlook for the future. It serves as a reminder of the nation’s unity and unwavering resolve to preserve its unique culture and way of life in the face of global challenges.

On this day, the festivities commence with a grand military parade in the capital city of Nicosia, where the streets are adorned with the vibrant colours of the Cypriot flag – blue and copper-red, symbolising the island’s azure skies and the rich copper mines that once fuelled its economy. Soldiers march in perfect formation, their boots echoing against the ancient cobblestones, as crowds of proud Cypriots line the streets, waving flags and cheering in a patriotic fervour.

In the coastal city of Limassol, the celebrations take on a more festive tone, with traditional music and dance performances filling the air. Locals and visitors gather in the town squares to witness the lively rhythms of Cypriot folk dances, such as the “Tsamikos” and the “Kartzilamas.” The aroma of souvlaki and halloumi wafts through the streets, tempting revellers to indulge in the island’s renowned cuisine.

As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, fireworks illuminate the skies, painting the horizon with bursts of colour that reflect off the crystal-clear waters. Bonfires are lit in villages across the island, and families gather to share stories of Cyprus’s rich history and the sacrifices made by those who fought for its independence.

Despite the challenges that have divided the island in recent decades, Independence Day remains a unifying force for all Cypriots, reminding them of their shared heritage and the resilience of their spirit. It is a day to celebrate the island’s unique culture, ancient traditions, and unwavering pursuit of peace and unity.