Indian Embassy in Qatar celebrates India's 79th Independence Day with patriotic fervour
Doha
The Embassy of India in Qatar, in association with the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), celebrated the 79th Independence Day of India with grandeur and patriotic zeal on Friday. The event, held at the ICC premises, was attended by more than 350 members of the Indian diaspora, representatives of community organisations, students, and friends of India residing in Qatar.
The celebration began with the unfurling of the Indian Tricolour by Ambassador of India to Qatar HE Mr Vipul. As the saffron, white, and green hues of the flag fluttered against the morning sky, the gathering of Indians rose in unison to sing the National Anthem. The solemn moment was followed by the paying of floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, whose values of peace and non-violence continue to inspire India's democratic journey.
Ambassador Vipul then read out excerpts from the Address to the Nation delivered by the Hon'ble President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu on the eve of Independence Day. The president's address reflected upon India's remarkable progress over the past decades, its aspirations for the future, and the importance of unity, inclusiveness, and innovation in nation-building.
In his address to the gathering, Ambassador Vipul highlighted the ever-strengthening ties between India and Qatar. He recalled the landmark visit of His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to India in February this year, during which the two nations elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership. This, he noted, represents a new chapter in India-Qatar relations, covering areas of energy cooperation, trade, investment, security, and cultural exchange.
The Ambassador also referred to the successful meetings held by a visiting Indian multi-party delegation in Doha in May 2025, which further reinforced bilateral engagement at the political and parliamentary levels. He expressed his gratitude to the Qatari leadership for their unequivocal condemnation of the Pahalgam attack, a gesture which underscored the depth of understanding and solidarity between the two nations.
Ambassador Vipul extended his sincere appreciation to His Highness the Amir and the Government of the State of Qatar for their consistent support and patronage to the large Indian community living in the country. He commended the contributions of over 850,000 Indians in Qatar, who form the largest expatriate community in the state.
'The Indians in Qatar play a pivotal role in India's development story and in strengthening our ties with the wider world,' the Ambassador said. He also acknowledged the efforts of various Indian community organisations, cultural groups, and social associations for their dedication to community welfare, cultural exchange, and fostering India-Qatar friendship.
The formal proceedings were followed by a lively cultural programme. School children and members of the Indian community presented patriotic songs, dances, and skits that paid homage to India's rich history, cultural heritage, and spirit of unity in diversity. The performances created an atmosphere of pride and joy, reminding the diaspora of their deep-rooted connection to their homeland.
The programme also reflected the diversity of India's diaspora in Qatar, as performers from different states of India came together to showcase folk dances, classical renditions, and group songs in multiple Indian languages. The cultural segment was warmly received by the audience, who enthusiastically joined in clapping and singing along.
To ensure that the celebrations reached a larger audience, the Embassy live-streamed the entire programme on its official Facebook and YouTube channels. This allowed thousands of Indians across Qatar, who were unable to attend in person, to participate virtually in the national celebration. The digital initiative highlighted the Embassy's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of pride and patriotism among attendees. For many members of the Indian diaspora in Qatar, the Independence Day celebration was not just a ceremonial occasion but a reminder of the values of democracy, pluralism, and resilience that India stands for.
The 79th Independence Day celebrations at the Indian Cultural Centre in Doha thus became a vibrant expression of unity, reflecting the enduring spirit of India and its growing partnership with Qatar. The presence of community leaders, families, and children underlined the collective pride of Indians abroad in their nation's achievements and aspirations.
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