It's long been a source of Welsh pride, but this week Cardiff Castle has been the site of celebrations for India and Pakistan.

Hundreds gathered at the historic castle over two days of fun and festivities as part of both nation's independence days.

Organisers said as well as showcasing both countries' cultures, they hoped it would highlight Cardiff's diversity and bring people from different backgrounds together.

British rule came to an end in 1947 - with Pakistan first becoming an independent nation on August 14 and India following suit the day after.

Indian girls who were dancing on their independence day
Indian girls who were dancing on their independence day

Both Indians and Pakistanis celebrate their independence days in their countries  by singing their national anthems, having street parades, dancing and letting off fireworks.

This week, communities in Wales took their celebrations to Cardiff Castle - inviting local residents, council officials, police constables and MPs to join the party.

Celebrations for Pakistan independence took place on Wednesday - with speeches on the subject made by children in both Welsh and English.

The national anthem of Pakistan and Wales was blasted through the speakers as the local Pakistani community took pride in their heritage and connection to both countries.

Secretary general of the Muslim Council of Wales Saleem Kidwai opened up the event on Wednesday.

Saleem Kidwai, Secretary of Muslim Council of Wales
Saleem Kidwai, Secretary of Muslim Council of Wales Pakistan Independence day 14th August

He said: "I was born there and brought up there and am proud to be Pakistani. But I'm also very proud to be Welsh.

"It's the first time in Wales that the Pakistani Muslim community has come together. It was a programme that was achieved in two weeks and we have achieved so much."

Civil Servant Arooj Khan, who is fluent in Welsh, hosted the programme.

She said independence to her meant having the "freedom to be who we are."

She added: "I'm a mix of Welsh, Muslim and Pakistani - and am proud of all three."

Arooj Khan, Civil Servant Pakistan Independence day
Arooj Khan, Civil Servant Pakistan Independence day

The following day, on Thursday, it was India's turn.

It began with a march - which started from the Mahatma Ghandi statue in Cardiff Bay, near the Wales Millennium Centre,  and finished at the castle.

Children acted and danced showing the culture of the country. They also put on a mini performance of acting out iconic figures and heroes of India and donned national dress as well as costumes - which included one person dressing up as Prime Minister of India Narendera Modi.

Among those in attendance was the First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford as we as honorary Indian counsul Raj Aggarwal.

Yogesh Nadarwala
India Independence day 15th August
Yogesh Nadarwala India Independence day 15th August

Also at the event was Yogesh Nadarwala, who is an orthopedic surgeon in Cardiff - who said that being Indian was about "upholding Indian values".

He added that independence day "is one of the greatest landmark in modern day India" and it reminded people about the sacrifices people made in the name of freedom.

Radhika Kadava ,Secretary of Hindu Council of Wales
Radhika Kadava, Secretary of Hindu Council of Wales India Independence day

Radhika Kadava, secretary of the Hindu Council of Wales said that being Indian means a lot to her.

"Indian means a lot. There is the multi-culture and multi-language within the country."

She added: "We have become part of the UK now,  we impart our knowledge on the children so they don't lose their roots."