Jerusalem, August 17, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Around 1,000 people gathered at St. Anthony’s Church in Jaffa to celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day, with Indian Ambassador to Israel J.P. Singh addressing the gathering, the Indian Embassy in Israel said.
The celebrations were organised by the Indian Konkani community in collaboration with Father Santhosh Lobo and members of the church community.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Singh appreciated the dedication and contribution of the Indian working community in Israel, particularly caregivers, whose services and commitment are highly valued in the country.
The Ambassador also reaffirmed the Embassy’s support for the Indian community and assured members that the mission would continue to serve as a “home away from home”.
The celebrations featured cultural performances in Kannada, Goan and Hindi, showcasing India’s diverse cultural heritage and the vibrant traditions of the Indian Konkani diaspora.
Meanwhile, India-Israel friendship was highlighted in Jerusalem as the city’s iconic Friendship Bridge, popularly known as the Chords Bridge, was illuminated in the colours of the Indian Tricolour to mark India’s Independence Day.
The saffron, white and green illumination symbolised the close ties between India and Israel, highlighting shared values, people-to-people connections and aspirations for deeper cooperation.
The Indian Embassy shared visuals of the illuminated bridge on social media, describing the display as a reflection of the enduring friendship between the two countries and a shared future.
The bridge illumination was part of a series of Independence Day celebrations organised by the Embassy, which were attended by members of the Indian Jewish community, the Indian diaspora and friends of India.
The Embassy had earlier said that the 80th Independence Day celebrations were held with “great gaiety and fervour”. For the first time during the celebrations, Vande Mataram was also sung, marking 150 years since the national song was composed.
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