The Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) organised the ‘Bharat Azadi Ke Rang 2024’ Independence Day celebration on August 16. The event, held at the ICC Ashoka Hall in Doha, radiated with vibrant patriotic spirit, bringing together diverse members of the Indian community in Qatar. What made the occasion particularly special was the involvement of the Indian working community, with significant participation from labour camps in Ras Laffan, Mesaieed, Dukhan, Al Khor, and the Industrial Area, emphasising ICBF’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of Indian expatriates in Qatar.
From the very start, the ICC Ashoka Hall buzzed with excitement and pride as attendees gathered to celebrate India’s 78th Independence Day. The hall, adorned with the Indian tricolor and festive decorations, was filled to capacity, with a substantial number of attendees representing the Indian working class who had come from labour camps across Qatar. The enthusiasm of the workers, who were the heart and soul of the event, set the tone for the evening.
The three-and-a-half-hour cultural extravaganza beautifully showcased India’s rich and diverse heritage. The event featured traditional dance performances, musical renditions of patriotic songs, and vibrant stage performances, each highlighting the unity in diversity that defines India.
The event was inaugurated by the Indian Ambassador to Qatar HE Vipul, who was warmly welcomed by the attendees. The Indian envoy’s presence added prestige to the event and symbolised the close relationship between the Indian diaspora and the Embassy of India in Qatar.
In his inaugural address, the ambassador spoke passionately about the importance of unity within the Indian community in Qatar and expressed his gratitude to the ICBF for its continued dedication to the welfare of Indian workers.
"I see in this hall the diverse colors of India, united by one spirit of freedom,” Ambassador Vipul said, addressing the audience. "It is heartening to witness the strong bond that the Indian community in Qatar shares, and the Indian Embassy stands as a support system for each one of you.”
The ambassador’s speech struck a chord with the workers in attendance, as he encouraged them to think of the Indian embassy as their home away from home and assured them that any concerns or challenges they face would be addressed with the support of ICBF or other community organisations. His call for unity resonated deeply with the attendees, many of whom have faced the challenges of living and working far from their homeland.
The event was also graced by the presence of the Indian Embassy’s First Secretary and ICBF Coordinating Officer Eish Singhal, whose role in bridging the efforts between the embassy and the community has been pivotal. ICBF Advisory Council Chairman SAM Basheer, ICC President AP Manikantan, and ISC General Secretary Nihad Ali were among the other prominent figures present.
ICBF President Shanavas Bava, in his opening remarks, highlighted the significance of hosting ‘Bharat Azadi Ke Rang 2024’ on a Friday, a day when workers from labour camps have the opportunity to participate fully in the celebrations.
He reiterated ICBF’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of Indian expatriates, particularly the hardworking brothers and sisters who form the backbone of Qatar’s workforce.
"Our goal is to ensure that each and every one of you feels connected to India, even while you are away from home,” said Shanavas Bava. "This event is a testament to ICBF’s dedication to fostering a sense of belonging among the Indian community in Qatar.”
ICBF General Secretary Varkey Boban also welcomed the gathering, expressing his appreciation for the large turnout and setting the tone for an evening of cultural pride and celebration. He commended the community for its resilience and spirit, noting that despite the challenges faced by many workers in Qatar, their contributions are vital to the strength and prosperity of both India and Qatar.
The cultural performances during the event were a vivid representation of India’s diverse cultural heritage. Traditional dances from various states of India, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Bhangra, captivated the audience with their grace and energy. The performances were organized and coordinated by a dedicated cultural team, led by ISC Secretary Pradeep Pillai, who ensured that each performance reflected the vibrant and multifaceted nature of Indian culture.
One of the standout moments of the evening was a medley of patriotic songs, performed by a talented group of singers from the community. Their soulful renditions of songs like ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon’ filled the hall with a deep sense of pride and nostalgia for India.
The younger members of the community also took center stage, with children performing skits and dances that celebrated India’s independence and the country’s strides in various fields. Their participation added a joyful and hopeful atmosphere to the event, reminding everyone of the importance of passing on the values of patriotism and cultural pride to the next generation.
As part of the celebration, participants, volunteers, and sponsors were recognised for their contributions to the success of the event. They were honored with mementos and certificates as tokens of appreciation from ICBF. The spirit of gratitude and recognition extended to all who had played a role in making the event possible, from the performers to the organizing committee.
ICBF Secretary T K Muhamed Kunhi delivered the vote of thanks, expressing his heartfelt appreciation to the dignitaries, participants, sponsors, and volunteers for their tireless efforts in bringing ‘Bharat Azadi Ke Rang 2024’ to life. He emphasized the importance of continued community support and collaboration to ensure the success of future events that bring together the Indian diaspora in Qatar.
‘Bharat Azadi Ke Rang 2024’ was more than just a celebration of India’s independence—it was a reflection of the unity and strength of the Indian community in Qatar. The event highlighted the deep connections that members of the diaspora share with their homeland, even while living abroad. For many in attendance, particularly the workers who had traveled from various labor camps, the event provided a much-needed sense of belonging and pride.
As the evening drew to a close, the sense of camaraderie and shared patriotism lingered in the air. ‘Bharat Azadi Ke Rang 2024’ not only celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day but also reinforced the idea that, no matter where they are in the world, Indians remain united by their love for their country and their commitment to one another.