Large number of Indians in Kuwait celebrated Republic day of India today in a flag hosting function held at Indian Embassy premise. The festivities to commemorate the 62nd Republic Day of India opened in Kuwait on the morning of January 26, 2010, with the unfurling of the National Flag by the Ambassador of India, H.E. Mr. Ajai Malhotra.
Flag hosting followed by singing of the National Anthem by the students of Bharatheeya Vidya Bhavan. Ambassador Sri Ajai Malhotra then read out the Address to the Nation by the President of India, H.E. Mrs. Pratibha Patil, and addressed the gathering of Indian nationals who had assembled at the Embassy premises.
Speaking after the flag hoisting ceremony, Ambassador Malhotra stated: “India-Kuwait relations are exemplary, characterized by warmth, mutual respect and understanding. They have a solid foundation in the long-standing and deep-rooted friendship between our peoples and civilizations. Our special relationship extends beyond historical and cultural linkages to encompass political, trade and economic interests. Exchanges have taken place in 2010 in numerous diverse fields ranging from culture to hydrocarbons, manpower development to tourism, journalism to defence. The presence of 640,000 Indians in Kuwait is further testimony to our friendship. Indians are the largest expatriate community in Kuwait and have a reputation for being industrious, talented, disciplined and law abiding.” He expressed gratitude for the benevolence bestowed on the Indian community by HH Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah, Amir of Kuwait, and for the goodwill of the friendly people of Kuwait. Ambassador Malhotra conveyed warm congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, on His Highness’s fifth anniversary as the Amir of the State of Kuwait. He also warmly congratulated His Highness and the people of Kuwait on the 50th anniversary of Kuwait’s Independence and the 20th anniversary of its Liberation, adding: “We enthusiastically join in the celebration of these important milestones, which by happy coincidence commence from today.”
School children from Integrated Indian School, Bharateeya Vidyabhavan, Indian Community school etc presented patriotic songs and an all-girls brass band of the Indian Community School in Kuwait performed to the delight of those attending the celebrations.
This was followed by an Open House Reception at which hot Indian snacks and other refreshments were served to all those present.
The festivities were attended by nearly 5,000 Indian nationals hailing from all walks of life, including project workers and domestic workers, representatives of Indian associations, engineers, doctors, accountants, and other professionals, technicians, traders and businessmen, besides Embassy staff and their families. Large number of media professional also attended the function. The 640,000 strong Indian community is the largest expatriate presence in Kuwait and a microcosm of India’s rich diversity.
Several major newspapers in Kuwait issued special supplements to mark India’s Republic Day. IndiansinKuwait.com special supplement for the Republic day is available online at http://www.indiansinkuwait.com/rDay