Monrovia, Liberia – The Indian Embassy in Liberia held a colorful program at the Embassy grounds in Monrovia on Monday, January 26, 2026, to commemorate the 77th Republic Day of India. Every year on January 26, India celebrates Republic Day, which commemorates the 1950 adoption of the Constitution and represents the country’s unwavering dedication to democratic ideals both domestically and internationally. A large number of Indian community members, their families, and Indian friends from Liberia attended the event, underscoring the growing relationship between the two nations.
The celebrations began with the unfurling of the Indian national flag by H.E. Manoj Bihari Verma, India’s ambassador to Liberia. The Republic Day Address was then read on behalf of Indian President H.E. Smt. Draupadi Murmu. Republic Day is a moment to reflect on India’s history, achievements, and aspirations, President Murmu said, welcoming Indians both at home and abroad.
In the speech given by the Indian Ambassador to Liberia, the President described India’s journey from independence on August 15, 1947, to the adoption of its Constitution on January 26, 1950. He pointed out that the largest democracy in the world is still based on the Constitution. The President emphasized how the core values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity inherent in the constitution continue to govern India’s Democratic Republic.
President Murmu honored national heroes like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, whose patriotism inspires generations, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who brought the country together. She also emphasized the celebration of the national song Vande Mataram’s 150th anniversary, calling it a testament to India’s pride in its culture.
The President emphasized that the commitment of India’s armed forces, police, medical professionals, farmers, educators, scientists, entrepreneurs, sanitation workers, artists, and young people is still essential to the country’s development. Indians residing overseas were given particular consideration in order to improve India’s reputation abroad.
President Murmu highlighted the significance of women’s empowerment and characterized them as the primary drivers of India’s success. The president underscored the growing participation of women in government, finance, sports, science, and entrepreneurship by citing initiatives like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, and the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which aims to expand women’s political representation.
The Indian Leader additionally stressed inclusive growth, citing improved access to housing, food security, healthcare, education, and agricultural support for farmers, tribal communities, and vulnerable groups. According to the President, millions of individuals have been able to transcend poverty thanks to certain social programs.
The president reminded the young people that they are the cornerstone of India’s future and that she was sure that their creativity and leadership will be crucial to achieving Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.
The President noted that India’s economy is still the fastest-growing major economy in the world because of the Atma-nirbhar Bharat initiative’s reforms, infrastructure development, and self-reliance. She reaffirmed India’s commitment to international cooperation, the country’s longtime support for harmony and peace, and environmental stewardship through the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) initiative.
Speaking to Indians in Liberia, Ambassador Verma highlighted the long-standing friendship between Liberia and India and commended the large turnout. According to Ambassador Verma, Republic Day is an opportunity to reaffirm the shared ideals of democracy, solidarity, and progress. “The strong interpersonal relationships between the two nations are reflected in the presence of several Liberian friends and cultural entertainers today.”
In addition to announcing intentions to significantly enhance bilateral engagement through cultural exchange, he highlighted the importance of expanding cultural collaboration. A 15-person Liberian troupe led by Mr. Kekura M. Kamara, also known as Malawala Balawala, Liberia’s Arts and Culture Ambassador, gave a cultural performance that was one of the event’s main highlights.
In addition to showcasing Liberia’s rich cultural legacy, the performance was a sneak peek into the troupe’s participation in the Surajkund International Arts and Crafts Mela, which is set to take place in Haryana, India, from January 31 to February 15, 2026. Along with patriotic songs, dances, poetry recitations, and other performances by Indian community members, the program included a group performance of Vande Mataram by schoolchildren.
Liberia-India relations continue to be strengthened by the common ideals of democracy, cultural exchange, and respect, which were reaffirmed as the celebration came to a welcoming and joyous conclusion.
