Islamabad/Dubai, Thursday, January 26, 2012: Indians worldwide soaked in the spirit of patriotism as they celebrated the Republic Day with fervour on Thursday to mark 63 years since the establishment of the Indian constitution.

At the Indian High Commission in the Pakistani capital, High Commissioner Sharat Sabharwal hoisted the national tricolour at an official function. Sabharwal read out President Pratibha Patil’s address to the nation on the eve of Republic Day and children of the High Commission’s staff performed patriotic songs.

The function was held at the High Commission within the high-security diplomatic enclave in the heart of Islamabad. Besides the traditional function held in Islamabad, the Indian High Commission will host two events in Lahore on January 27 and Karachi on January 29 to mark the Republic Day.

Leading businessmen, politicians, civil society activists and journalists have been invited to these events, at which the High Commissioner will be present.

(News agency)