The Indian Cultural Society, one of the oldest Indian cultural organizations in Jeddah, and Bazm-e-Osmania, organized an Indian cultural musical program dubbed “The Grand Cultural Program” to mark the 65th Republic Day of India at the Indian Consulate.

Saurin Bhatt, an Indian playback singer, regaled audiences with popular patriotic songs reflecting the national spirit of the country.

Dilshad Ahmed Shamsi, chief patron of the Indian Cultural Society, said: “Last year the society distributed 15,000 textbooks to needy Indian students in Jeddah.”

“It’s the only organization in Jeddah that encourages students by providing books and other school accessories instead of toys. We want our children to develop academically first.”

Arif Qureshi, president of the Indian Cultural Society, said that the group has been marking the national events of Jan. 26 and Aug. 15 since 1976. “We used to hold these programs at home until 1987 when Talmiz Ahmed, the consul general, allowed us a public venue,” he said. He recalled that the consul general provided “us with a hotel first, then the Indian School’s auditorium to conduct India’s national events.” He added that he has been celebrating the Indian national festivals since his school days.

Chief guest Irshad Ahmad, consul (press, information and culture), hailed the Indian Cultural Society’s efforts to sustain the tradition of marking national day events away from home. He said that every Non-Resident Indian abroad should feel proud by participating in events that mark the Indian Republic Day.

Other local popular singers who entertained the audience were Rehana Saleem, Ahmed Siddiqui, Sidiq Ali Waheedy (Jimmy) and Faris Waheedy.

Rehana Saleem’s “Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo Zara Aankh Mey Bharlo Paani” brought tears to many eyes. Saurin Bhatt started with the song “Phir Bhee Dil Hai Hindustani”.