By: Vinod Kumar (UAE)
The Embassy of India in Bahrain commemorated the 75th Republic Day of India with a series of vibrant events with Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Bahrain, gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest, lauding the longstanding bilateral relations between the two nations.
The festivities commenced on with a Flag Hoisting ceremony at the Embassy premises, attended by approximately 1500 members of the Indian community. The ceremony began with the offering of flowers to the father of the nation, followed by Ambassador Vinod K. Jacob reading excerpts from the address to the Nation by Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu. The Indian school band added a touch of solemnity by rendering the National Anthem.
In the evening of January 26, 2024, the Embassy hosted a grand Reception at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, where Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, conveyed his congratulations to the Government of India and its people. In his statement, he highlighted the deep-rooted bilateral relations between the two countries and expressed a mutual commitment to enhancing ties.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Heads of Councils and Authorities, Senior Officials of the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Heads of Diplomatic Missions, and Members of the Diplomatic Corps, as well as members of the Indian and Bahraini communities. Over 450 guests were present to witness the celebration.
The reception showcased cultural richness with a Garba dance performance by artists from the Indian diaspora, celebrating the inclusion of Garba in UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Ministry of Interior, Bahrain band played the National Anthems of India and Bahrain.
Following the cultural performances, guests were treated to a culinary journey through different regions of India at the dinner reception, which included a coffee corner displaying various varieties of Indian coffee and India’s rich coffee culture.A dedicated Defence corner was set up, featuring the country’s latest achievements and innovations in Defence technology. An Attar corner showcased an array of distinctive Attar varieties from the renowned district of Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh.
The celebration not only honored India’s historic milestone but also strengthened the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between India and Bahrain.