News Desk: In a milestone moment for India–US ties and the global Indian diaspora, the Indian tricolour was hoisted atop Seattle’s iconic 605-foot Space Needle on the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day — the first time in history that a foreign nation’s flag has ever flown from the landmark.
The ceremony was led by Consul General of India in Seattle, Prakash Gupta, and attended by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, senior city officials, and prominent members of the Indian-American community. Built in 1962 for the World’s Fair, the Space Needle is a defining feature of Seattle’s skyline and a symbol of innovation in the US Pacific Northwest.
Sharing the moment on social media, Gupta posted: “No greater honour than this! Raising the Tiranga on top of the Seattle skyline at the Space Needle.”
A historic first in Seattle!
India’s tricolour soars the Seattle skyline
Happy 79th Independence Day of India@IndianEmbassyUS @MEAIndia@AmbVMKwatra @IndianDiplomacy @DrSJaishankar @PMOIndia #HarGharTiranga2025#HarGharTiranga pic.twitter.com/LUOVBoARjh
— India In Seattle (@IndiainSeattle) August 16, 2025
The celebrations extended beyond the flag-raising. At Kerry Park, a community reception brought together US dignitaries, including Congressman Adam Smith and Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Stephens. Smith called the occasion “a celebration of diversity and the deepening bonds between India and the Pacific Northwest.”
Adding to the grandeur, Seattle and King County declared August 15 as India Day. Landmarks such as Lumen Field, T-Mobile Park, the Great Wheel, Tacoma Dome, and Tacoma City Hall were illuminated in India’s colours, creating a city-wide tribute.
The day’s festivities concluded with a vibrant cultural programme featuring the Indian and US national anthems, traditional dances, and a stirring poetry recital by renowned actor-poet Piyush Mishra.
This unprecedented gesture not only celebrated India’s independence but also highlighted the cultural influence and growing presence of the Indian diaspora in shaping Seattle’s global identity.
