Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday launched the state's 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign by leading a march through his Bhabanipur Assembly constituency in Kolkata and announcing a series of Independence Day programmes, including the distribution of 70 lakh national flags and a mega Tiranga Yatra on August 10.
The march began at Gopalnagar More near the Survey Building in Alipore and concluded at Hazra crossing, with BJP workers, supporters and residents carrying the Tricolour and raising patriotic slogans. Adhikari was joined by ministers, BJP legislators and senior party leaders during the procession.
Addressing the gathering after the march, Adhikari said the Department of Culture would distribute around 70 lakh national flags across the state as part of this year's campaign.
"We have taken up a massive programme to distribute 70 lakh national flags across the state. Government offices and institutions will be illuminated in the colours of the Tricolour. Schools and colleges will organise painting competitions, quizzes and cultural programmes to instil patriotism and national consciousness among the present and future generations," he said.
The Chief Minister also invited people across political affiliations to participate in a mega Tiranga Yatra on August 10, when around 50,000 people are expected to march from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's statue on Red Road to Gate No. 7 of the Birla Planetarium.
"I humbly appeal to all patriotic citizens, irrespective of party, caste or religion, to join the historic march on August 10. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said, 'Har Ghar Tiranga, Dil Se Tiranga, Pyar Se Tiranga'," Adhikari said.
Describing the initiative as a celebration of nationalism, he said the campaign aims to foster patriotism among younger generations.
"This is a nationalist celebration. A nationalist government has now been formed in Bengal, and we want every citizen to join in celebrating Independence Day with pride," he added.
The rally marked the formal beginning of West Bengal's Independence Day celebrations, with the state government planning a series of events over the coming week.
Traffic movement was affected on several major roads in south Kolkata, including Alipore Judges Court Road, Chetla Road, Kalighat Road and Hazra Road, as police imposed diversions to manage the procession.
The campaign marks the first time the Har Ghar Tiranga initiative is being officially organised by the West Bengal government following the BJP's victory in the 2026 Assembly elections. Previously, the programme had largely been led by the BJP while the former Trinamool Congress government remained in office.
Earlier in the day, Adhikari visited a gurdwara in Bhabanipur, where he participated in seva, served food during the langar, washed utensils alongside volunteers and later shared a community meal, saying it was his responsibility as both the local MLA and the state's Chief Minister to serve people from all backgrounds.