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JEDDAH — The “India Forum Carnival 2016” held last week at the Consulate General of India premises here proved to be a great success with the community enjoying the festive atmosphere that furthered the flavor of India.
Consul General B.S. Mubarak welcomed the Chief Guest Syed Shahnawaz Hussain and all other guests whose presence contributed to the success of the Carnival.
Mubarak lauded the efforts of the India Forum Management Committee members who proved their expertise by organizing such a huge event in just over two weeks’ time. He said “This is an extraordinary achievement which is a result of sincere efforts and dedication of India Forum management committee.”
Chief Guest of the evening was Shahnawaz Hussain, a well known Indian politician who is the spokesperson for current ruling party and is an ex-Cabinet Minister. Qaisar Shameem, chairman Haj Committee of India and Rashid Ansari, member Haj Committee of India, were among the other distinguished guest.
The event was presided by Mubarak and was conducted under the guidance of the Deputy Consul General and Director India Forum Mohammed Shahid Alam.
A very warm welcome was extended to the Chief Guest Shahnawaz Hussain by the President of India Forum Aijaz Ahmed Khan. The chief guest, while participating in the carnival wholeheartedly, expressed his thoughts in his speech that each and every NRI is an Ambassador of India. He also said that NRIs, though they are away from India, contribute immensely in the growth and development of our nation.
A crowd of over 3,000 participated in the carnival, which had one of its kind features like strumming of music, graceful cultural programs, games for youngsters, glittering and personalized stalls.
A very colorful and vibrant environment was created throughout the event, with participation from enthusiastic stall organizers, to dance performances, songs and musical bands.
The event started with the introduction of each stall followed by cultural programs & songs by a well-known singers Mohammed Sikandar Ali, Ms. Asha Shaiju etc. Group folk dances from Kerala (OPPANA) in Malayalam choreographed by Mrs. Riahana Mohammad enthralled the audience. Waseem Mukadam’s melodious songs echoed in the lively and exciting environment.
Fancy dress competition for little angels was one of the great attractions of this carnival. Children dressed up in various regional as well as fancy dresses were seen climbing the stage to showcase their beautiful attires. Proud parents and other community members cheered these little children.
Another attraction of the carnival was the Home Made Sweet Dish Competition. A lot of colorful dishes were displayed for the judges to taste from and select the best ones. It was a tough job because all dishes were just outstanding both in appearance, aroma and taste.
The stalls comprised of henna designing, face-painting, Indian dresses, handicrafts, handmade dishes, healthcare, fancy abayas, books, educational consultancy, cosmetics and perfumery, personalized home dishes and snacks. A free medical checkup was also arranged.
Prizes and certificates were distributed to the winners of the Fancy Dress, Home Made Sweet Dish and Best Stall Competitions. Contributions of the sponsors and the voluntary services of Asim Zeshan, Imran Kausar and Ms. Amrina Qaiser were appreciated and honored by Zakariya Biladi who gave the vote of thanks. The Master of Ceremony of the program was handled exceptionally well by Wasim Mukadam, Ayoob Hakeem, and Asif Daudi.
India Forum is the cultural wing of the Consulate General of India Jeddah, and was established in early eighties with the objective of promoting social activities and networking between fellow NRIs of Jeddah. The current president is Aijaz Ahmed Khan, and the managing committee members are Ayoob Hakeem (general secretary), Mohammed Hyder (program coordinator), K.T. Muneer (treasurer), Zakariya Biladi, Waseem Mukadam, Asimuddin Ansari, Asif Daudi, Lakshman and Kamal Ahmed. The coordinator from consulate side is Bobby Manatt.
Acknowledging the interest of Indian Community at large, with guidance and blessings of B.S. Mubarak and Mohammed Shahid Alam and upon the request of the community, India Forum is planning for bigger events in future. — SG
