School children performing at the Independence Day celebrations in Dharwad on Saturday with their lively performances.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
The spirit of Independence Day pervaded the twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad as people of different age groups, from toddlers to senior citizens, came out to celebrate the 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour on Saturday.The tricolour was hoisted at government offices, educational institutions and other public places. Several residential localities and commercial establishments also joined the celebrations by displaying the national flag.National flags mounted on motorcycles, four-wheelers, and auto rickshaws were a common sight on city roads. Some had several pillion riders who were seen waving the tricolour. Buntings of the tricolour adorned the important junctions in the twin cities, and they stayed illuminated with colourful lights at night.In accordance with the Supreme Court order, Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Commissioner Rudresh Ghali hoisted the national flag at Idah Maidan, in the presence of several councillors and civic officials.As Independence Day also coincides with the birth anniversary of Sangolli Rayanna, the celebrated freedom fighter and aide of Kittur Rani Chennamma, dignitaries and political leaders later paid floral tributes to his statue at Brindavan Circle. Office-bearers of various organisations and members of the public also gathered at the spot to honour his contribution to the freedom struggle.While district-level celebrations were held at R.N. Shetty Stadium in Dharwad, a taluk-level celebration was held at Nehru Stadium in Hubballi. Hoisting the national flag, Hubballi Urban Tahsildar Mahesh Bhagavanth Gaste said Independence Day should also be an occasion to reaffirm citizens’ commitment to national development, social equality, environmental protection and ethical values.Mahesh Tenginakai, Hubballi-Dharwad Central MLA, highlighted development initiatives and called upon citizens to contribute towards building a developed India by 2047.Officials who performed well in the special revision of electoral rolls and meritorious students were felicitated. A total of 21 contingents comprising police, Home Guards, NCC and Scouts and Guides participated in the parade, while students presented cultural programmes.Former Legislative Council chairman Basavaraj Horatti, Pradeep Shettar, MLA, and senior officials were present.Educational institutions and residential associations held Independence Day celebrations through various programmes. Cultural programmes were also held as part of the celebrations in the evening. Published - August 15, 2026 09:32 pm IST
