Indian tricolour flies atop Seattle’s iconic Space Needle in historic first | Watch

In a first-of-its-kind celebration, the Indian tricolour was hoisted on Seattle’s iconic Space Needle on India’s 79th Independence Day, marking the first time a foreign nation’s flag has been raised at the landmark.

Consul General of India in Seattle Prakash Gupta, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and city leaders joined the ceremony, which highlighted the contributions of the Indian-American diaspora to the Pacific Northwest’s growth as a tech hub.

"No greater honour than this! Raising the Tiranga on top of the Seattle skyline at the Space Needle," Gupta said in a post on X, along with a video of the tricolour flying high atop the iconic Seattle monument with sprawling views of the city below.

A community reception was later hosted at Kerry Park, where US Congressman Adam Smith, Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Stephens, Seattle Port Commissioner Sam Cho and Seattle Parks Superintendent AP Diaz attended. Smith called the moment a tribute to the region’s diversity and the strong India–Pacific Northwest partnership.

The celebration also featured cultural performances, including national anthems, dance showcases and a recital by actor and artist Piyush Mishra.