Bill Gates, chairman of the Gates Foundation, celebrated India's 78th Independence Day by marking the inaugural India Day at the newly-opened Indian Consulate in Seattle, addressing over 2,000 attendees. Gates praised India as a global leader in innovation, highlighting its advancements in technology, agriculture, and healthcare, and noted that India's ingenuity is beneficial worldwide, especially in developing Digital Public Infrastructure systems. The event featured cultural performances and floats representing various regions of India, under the theme 'Unity in Diversity'. Prominent political figures, including Congress members and state officials, participated in the celebrations, which were recognized with official proclamations from local governments. Iconic buildings in Seattle and Bellevue were also illuminated in the Indian tricolor to commemorate the occasion. Gates expressed his honor in collaborating with the Indian American community and government on initiatives to improve lives globally.