By Shahzeen Eram

RIYADH — On occasion of 71st Republic Day of India, community members here joined in a colorful cultural evening at the International Indian School of Riyadh (IISR), organized by the Embassy of India.

The function commenced with the singing of National Anthem of Saudi Arabia followed by the Indian National Anthem.

Indian Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed extended warm greetings and felicitations to all members of the Indian community present on the joyous ocassion. He said “Republic Day is of special significance to every Indian living anywhere in the world.” He reminded the Indian community members that they are all brand ambassadors of India.

The Ambassador, made special mention about the diplomatic relations between India and Saudi Arabia. He said “I would like to avail this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman for their strong support in elevating the bilateral relations between our countries into a strategic partnership and for ensuring the well-being of 2.6 million Indian nationals residing in the Kingdom.”

Dr. Ausaf Sayeed deeply acknowledged the enormous contribution made by Indian professionals and skilled workforce to economic development of the Kingdom and for promoting greater understanding between people of the two countries.

Adding color to the celebrations a continuous and energetic flow of cultural program was presented by the students of IISR.

A skit showcasing the life and values of ‘Truth, Non-Violence and Satyagrah’ from the life of the Father of the Nation — Mahatma Gandhi was performed by the boys of IISR.

The highlight of the evening was the popular ‘Bhangra’ troupe from India accredited by the India Cultural Council ICCR that entertained the crowd to the beats of Punjabi folk dance — ‘Bhangra’ and ‘Gidda’ and ‘Luddi’. The event was compered by Dr. Tarannum Asif of IISR.

The event witnessed huge attendance by over 300 community members including senior officials from the Indian Embassy, Principal Dr. Shoukat Perwez, Vice Principal of the Girls’ school and Boys’ school, students, school staff and eminent community members and leaders.