PA/03/26 25 April 2026
“Lest We Forget”: Solemn Dawn Service at Delhi War Cemetery marks Anzac Day
Australians and New Zealanders gathered in New Delhi at dawn today to commemorate Anzac Day, honouring the service and sacrifice of all who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Australian High Commissioner Philip Green and New Zealand High Commissioner Patrick Rata hosted the commemorative service at the historic Delhi War Cemetery, bringing together members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the Indian Armed forces, and the Australian and New Zealand communities in India. A special participant this year was New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment, the Hon Todd McClay.
“Anzac Day reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today were secured through extraordinary courage and sacrifice. Here in Delhi, far from the battlefields where the Anzac story began, we gathered at dawn to honour the men and women who served and those who continue to serve our nations,” High Commissioner Green said.
He also acknowledged the contribution of many Indians during the First World War and in subsequent operations.
“We pay tribute to the many Indian soldiers who served alongside Australians and New Zealanders more than a century ago. Their shared sacrifice continues to be remembered with deep respect.”
High Commissioner’s Green’s speech this year focused in particular on the high levels of camaraderie that existed between Anzac and Indian soldiers in the Gallipoli theatre – a forerunner of our current relationship of Dosti.
New Zealand High Commissioner to India, Patrick Rata, said, “Anzac Day is a special day where we take an opportunity, in our otherwise busy schedules, to pause and remember those who gave their lives, and those who served, in the hope of establishing a better life for future generations.”
“Anzac Day represents our respective nations moment of remembrance and thanks. For veterans and their families, it is deeply personal. For me, it is about lost comrades, and my family members who sacrificed their future so I may have one,” said Brigadier Damian Hill, Head of the Defence Section at the Australian High Commission.
Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War in 1915. Over time, it has become a day of national remembrance to honour all who have served and sacrificed in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
More than 200 guests attended the Dawn Service in New Delhi, where a minute’s silence was observed and floral wreaths were laid in remembrance of those who gave their lives in service.
For more information about Anzac Day, including historical resources and educational materials, visit https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/ and https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/heritage-and-education/programmes-and-resources/anzac-day/.