The Indian diaspora in Oman witnessed a ceremoniously solemn event that launched ‘AzadiKaAmritMahotsav’ – India@75 Celebrations, a virtually synchronized programme organized by the Board of Directors under the aegis of the Embassy of India on Thursday, 12th August 2021.
Mr. Syed Salman, Vice Chairman of the Indian School Board and Head of India@75 Celebrations Committee, welcomed the dignitaries and all invitees and set the tone for the programme by rekindling the patriotic fervour with his felicity of expression. “Celebrating India’s Independence is an occasion for the Indians living on foreign soil to reconnect with the culture and heritage of their motherland, and simultaneously connect other nationals with India,” Mr. Salman said highlighting the concept of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam’ which means ‘the whole world is one family’.
Dr. Sivakumar Manickam, Chairman of the Indian School Board who was the Guest of Honour for the evening recalled the phenomenal progress India has achieved.“As we are celebrating the 75th Anniversary of our Nation’s Independence, we need to appreciate the phenomenal achievements our nation can be proud of; and how as Indians we should hold our head high as true citizens of this great nation,” said Dr. Manickam.
Chairman exhorted the audience to “rededicate, reorient, refocus our commitment to serve our Motherland and see her becoming the most sought after country in the world. As we are launching the India@75 celebrations, it is an apt occasion to salute the freedom fighters and follow the Gandhian principles.”
His Excellency Shri Munu Mahawar, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his inaugural address, H.E. the Ambassador extended greetings to His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik and the Government and people of Oman for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of this beautiful land. His Excellency greeted all members of the Indian community on the occasion of the 75th Independence Day of India. “It is an important milestone in the journey of our beloved nation. I am sure all students and faculty members of Indian Schools will participate enthusiastically in all the events scheduled to celebrate AzadiKaAmritMahotsav,” he said.
His Excellency released the tagline ‘My India, My Pride’ and an e-book containing 75 art forms of India, “The e-book containing 75 shades of Indian Art tells the story of rich civilization and culture that India is known for. Every child whose artwork finds a place in this book is an ambassador of our rich culture and traditions,” His Excellency remarked.
A number of activities have been planned to make ‘AzadiKaAmritMahotsav’ – Indian@75 Celebrations meaningful for the students as well as the members of the Indian community in Oman. Mr. Anuj Swarup, Second Secretary – Embassy of India listed out a few of the programmes during his address.
“The Board has already floated a Logo Design Contest to commemorate the momentous occasion. Besides, all programmes organized both in School and Board level will incorporate themes pertaining to ‘India@75’. Socially impactful activities such as blood donation, beach cleaning drive and tree plantation in addition to organizing 75 edutainment programmes by all 21 Indian Schools in Oman will be a fitting tribute to our Motherland,” Mr. Swarup said.
Mr. SachinToprani, President of the Indian School Muscat Managing Committee, thanked Chief Guest His Excellency Shri MunuMahawar for patronizing the event, Chairman Dr. Sivakumar Manickam for his able guidance, members of the India@75 celebrations committee for their concerted efforts, Principal and the staff in charge of the Launch event for the seamless coordination of the event.
The evening’s programme was embellished with programmes depicting the cultural diversity of India. The digital display of a kaleidoscopic view of India’s achievements during the last 75 years won the adulation of the audience. The medley of folk songs and dances performed by the students of Indian School Muscat enthralled the audience and revived the rich culture and civilization of India.