RIYADH: The Embassy of India in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah celebrated India’s 79th Independence Day on Friday with great enthusiasm and active participation from the Indian community, local dignitaries, and friends of India.
Independence Day was celebrated by the embassy in Riyadh with the enthusiastic participation of about 1,000 people, including members of the Indian community, embassy officials, and journalists.
The celebrations began with the hoisting of the tricolour by Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, the ambassador, followed by the national anthem.
The ambassador lay floral tributes at the bust of father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, then read out President Droupadi Murmu’s message to the nation and Indians around the world.
In his keynote address, the ambassador highlighted the close bilateral partnership between India and Saudi Arabia and the significant role played by the Indian diaspora in making this relationship vibrant and robust.
It was followed by cultural performances by Indian community members, displaying the rich diversity of India. The cultural program was an eclectic mix of patriotic songs and classical dance performances.
In the run-up to Independence Day, embassy officials, their families and Indian community members took part in the “Har Ghar Tiranga” initiative, displaying their patriotic spirit and pride in the national flag.
At the Indian Consulate in Jeddah the ceremony began with the hoisting of the national flag by Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri followed by the national anthem, with the consul general reading the president’s address to the nation, which highlighted India’s accomplishments over the past 78 years and outlined the country’s vision.
The consul general highlighted the growing partnership with Saudi Arabia and commended the Indian diaspora in the Western Province for their pivotal role in fostering stronger ties and contributing positively to both countries.
He also provided updates on the consulate’s key initiatives and urged the diaspora to continue their active engagement in advancing these efforts.
The celebration featured a cultural program including patriotic songs performed by students from Indian schools in Jeddah that evoked pride, unity, and respect for the county’s history and cultural heritage.
A highlight of the event was the Tiranga Exhibition, organized as part of the government of India’s “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign. The exhibition included historical images, creative displays, and information about the Indian national flag — promoting awareness, respect, and national pride among attendees.
The event concluded with a display of regional Indian cuisines, giving guests a flavourful glimpse into India’s rich and diverse food heritage. Each dish, representing different states, highlighted the country’s remarkable cultural diversity and unity.
