Independence Day celebrations took place across Karnataka on Tuesday, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah unfurling the tricolour and inspecting a guard of honour here.About 6,000 people joined Siddaramaiah in singing the National Anthem at the Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Parade Ground. He took the salute from the police and 40 other marching contingents.Earlier, an Army helicopter hovered over the ground showering rose petals.Inclement weather, heavy overnight rains and traffic snarls due to water-logging in several areas across the city forced many people to stay away from the main function.After the Chief Minister delivered his speech in Kannada, about 2,700 students re-enacted historic events of the freedom struggle, including non-violent protests and clashes with colonial police.
About 100 young artists staged cultural programmes, including folk songs and dances, depicted the war of independence and the sacrifices of freedom fighters including Sangoli Rayanna and Kittur Rani Chennamma of Karnataka who fought the British Army in the 19th century.Martial arts and acrobatics on motorcycles by the military as well as the state police teams kept the crowd spellbound.Siddaramaiah presented gallantry medals and awards to police officers and distributed prizes to the participating organisations.Governor Vajubhai Vala hoisted the national flag at the Raj Bhavan here. The event was also celebrated in hundreds of schools and colleges across the state.