P R O C L A M A T I O N
WHEREAS August 15, 1947, marks the historic independence of India from British rule, commemorating the birth of the world's largest democracy and the successful culmination of a peaceful movement grounded in civic leadership, courage, and self-determination; and
WHEREAS, India is now the most populous country in the world, representing more than 1.4 billion people, and plays a significant global role in democracy, education, science, technology, and economic development, with deep cultural and civic ties to communities across the United States; and WHEREAS, Indian holidays and cultural observances are increasingly recognized across the United States as part of the evolving civic landscape, reflecting the importance and contributions of Indian Americans; notably, California and New York have formally recognize d Diwali as an official public holiday in many jurisdictions, with schools closed and paid leave observed, demonstrating that Indian holidays have achieved meaningful civic recognition at the state and local levels; and
WHEREAS, cities and states across the nation —including the City of Los Angeles, which has formally recognized August 15 as India Independence Day — as well as jurisdictions in California, New York, Massachusetts, Georgia, and the Pacific Northwest, have issued offici al proclamations, hosted flag-raising ceremonies, and supported civic observances honoring India Independence Day on August 15, reflecting broad national precedent and bipartisan support; and
WHEREAS, Madhu and Sudha Chanani and their family —founders of Bluestem Hotel Torrance, active civic leaders, and parents of hometown hero retired U.S. Army Captain Alok Chanani and with Hanuman Temple Torrance, have hosted annual India Independence Day celebrations drawing over 2,000 attendees each year, supported by officials from the City of Torrance, the City of Palos Verdes, and the City and County of Los Angeles, reflecting stro ng regional engagement and official civic recognition; and
WHEREAS, the City of Torrance , home to a vibrant and growing Indian American community whose members contribute meaningfully to the city's economic vitality, professional workforce, healthcare system, educational institutions, entrepreneurship, and civic life recognizes August 15 as India Independence Day in the City of Torrance.
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1 NOW, THEREFORE, I, SHARON KALANI , as Mayor of the City of Torrance, California, do hereby proclaim August 15, 2026 as
INDIA INDEPENDENCE DAY
and encourage all residents to recognize and celebrate the historical significance of this day, the contributions of the Indian American community, and the shared democratic principles that unite us.
Signed this 11th day of August 2026.
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Mayor Sharon Kalani
________________________________ ________________________________ Councilmember Jeremy Gerson Councilmember Betty Lieu
________________________________ ________________________________ Councilmember David Kartsonis Councilmember Asam Sheikh
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Councilmember Bridgett Lewis
ATTEST:
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Rebecca Poirier, City Clerk
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