About 100 people gathered at the Invercargill City Council to raise the flag and sing their national anthem, the Jana Gana Mana, to mark the important day.
Indian Community in Southland trust chairman Vinay Sood said it was a great opportunity for the community gather to share their culture with others.
He believed there were about 1000 New Zealand-Indians living in Southland.
"For all Indians and Kiwi-Indians in Southland it is a privilege and honour that we can celebrate this date here.
Anu Elizabathe John agreed.
"It is my roots and it is what I represent. So this day is very special. Despite [all being] very different from each other, the truth is that we all came united because of the independence.
"So it is a very motivational and inspiring day for all us."
The celebration also had a presentation from children who performed traditional dancing.
