DAMMAM, 29 January 2007 — An unprecedented turnout of Indians was witnessed on the 58th Republic Day celebrations at the International Indian School, Dammam. Around 3,000 guests thronged the football field to have a glimpse of the Republic Day parade- the first time ever in the Eastern Province. Dr. Mumtaz Ali Khan, chairman managing committee, took the salute of a very brisk and smartly conducted march past, which was followed by a wonderful cultural program. Tableaux depicting various states held the audience spellbound. Students were extremely enthusiastic as they danced with vigor, energy and zest. Azeem Warsi, member managing committee, addressed the audience.
The school principal, Mohammad Shafei, read out the president’s message.
Bilal Ahmed regretted the usual apathy of the Indian Embassy. There was no participation from them. “It would have been an eye-opener for them”, opined Bilal
India Forum, Jubail celebrated the Republic Day with great enthusiasm and an exciting cultural program. Meraj Ansari, the forum president congratulated the community and shared the progress of the forum and showed how the community had benefited from the activities. Waheed Latif delved upon the importance of a well crafted constitution.
Later, the students of International Pearl School, Jubail gave a spirited performance covering almost all the prominent freedom fighters.
“It was like going through Indian history in brief. As the students repeated the famous slogan of each, we actually had a refresher course,” exclaimed Anis Baksh. Songs like “ Sare jehan se achha Hindustan hamara” and.”miley sur mera tumhara to sur baney hamara” actually summed up the mood of the evening.
