Iconic buildings bathed in blue to mark UN's 70th anniversary

The iconic Humayun’s Tomb in the capital, Red Fort and Qutub Minar were bathed in blue, the official colour of the United Nations (UN) to mark the 70th anniversary of the world body.

Railway stations at Shimla, Ooty and Darjeeling — part of the Mountain Railways — and the majestic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus building also wore a blue hue to mark the occasion.

The UN flag was hoisted alongside the Indian Tricolour on government buildings in Delhi to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter.

More than 200 landmarks in 60 countries, from the Pyramids in Egypt to the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Empire State Building in New York, were being lit up in blue on Saturday to mark the anniversary.

In a message on the UN Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the ideals and the path shown by Mahatma Gandhi were extremely relevant.

“The ideals and path shown by Gandhiji are extremely relevant today and they resonate with the UN charter and ideals of the UN,” Modi said extending greetings on the occasion.

The prime minister said India has been at the forefront of various initiatives of the UN and was committed to doing its best in supporting the UN in its endeavours.
India’s association with the UN dates back to 1942 when it was among the original members of the United Nations that signed the UN Declaration in Washington on January 1.

India also participated in the historic UN Conference of International Organisation at San Francisco and signed the Charter on June 26, 1945.