The Ballroom at The Oberoi Grand decked up in white, red and blue on July 4 as the US Consulate, Calcutta, celebrated the 239th American Independence Day and bid farewell to US consul-general Helen LaFave. 

Glamour was the key to the party with a classic Hollywood theme — ticket booths at the entrance, film props at the photobooth, posters of Hollywood classics, and even the screening of films on a giant screen.

“I can’t think of a better place for me to spend the Fourth of July.... It is the biggest day of the year for us as American citizens and to be able to share it with you in Calcutta is a great pleasure for me,” said Helen. She spoke briefly about The Declaration of Independence saying, “the words that Jefferson used are really what inspire Americans and inspire many people around the world and what we still strive for, for ourselves and for our country....” 

She also spoke passionately about Indo-US relations and her time in Calcutta. “President Obama stated that his commitment to a new chapter between the two countries flows from a deep friendship between our people and that India and United States are not just natural partners but that America could be India’s best partner. I feel in my time here in Calcutta you all have been truly wonderful partners for me — hospitable, friendly, engaging and challenging — and I really think we have much to do together as Indians and Americans,” said Helen, whose term in Calcutta comes to an end this month.

Marla Berg sings the Indian and American national anthems accompanied by Jennifer A. Heemstra on the piano. “It means a lot to me to sing both the national anthems,” said Berg, who took two weeks to learn Jana Gana Mana.... Heemstra said that it was “more emotional for us because we are away from home”. “It’s a complete honour for us to show respect for our host country,” added the founder and director of Kolkata Classics.

Pictures: B. Halder