RIYADH/JEDDAH, 27 January 2006 — Members of the Indian community celebrated the country’s Republic Day across Saudi Arabia yesterday.
Flag hoisting ceremonies marked the event at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah.
Charge d’Affaires Krishan Kumar in Riyadh and Consul General Ausaf Sayeed in Jeddah read out President A.P.J. Kalam’s Republic Day message.
This year’s event is termed as a defining moment in the history of Saudi-Indian relations as it coincides with the landmark visit to India of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah.
For the first time, the president quoted anecdotes and teachings from Islam, Christianity and Hinduism to spell out his vision of an Indian society anchored firmly to the enduring values of truth, honesty and sincerity amid its quest for the eradication of poverty through education and IT.
The general comment was that the president’s address was meant to underline India’s respect for the three great religions, especially as King Abdullah was the chief guest on the occasion. A large number of non-resident Indians were present with their families at both ceremonies.
The International Indian School-Jeddah celebrated the event with a flag-raising ceremony presided over by the consul general. Children presented a march-past and patriotic songs.
A drill display was followed by the much applauded pageant of floats of different states of India depicting the diversity and richness of culture. The program ended with breathtaking gymnastics stunts.
The Indian community in Dammam celebrated the day by donating blood at the Eastern Province Blood Bank Center at the Dammam Central Hospital.
