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See - Sada Elbalad
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Embassy of India in Cairo celebrates 79th Independence Day
Basant Ahmed The Embassy of India in Cairo proudly celebrated the 79th Independence Day of India on 15 August, 2025 at India House, 19 Mohamed Mazhar Street, Zamalek. Festivities commenced at 7:30 AM with the arrival of members of the Indian community and friends of India. At 8:00 AM, H.E. Mr. Suresh K. Reddy, Ambassador of India to Egypt, ceremoniously hoisted the Indian tricolour, followed by the national anthem. The Ambassador then read the President of India's Independence Day message, reflecting on the nation's remarkable journey since 1947, its democratic resilience, dynamic economic growth, and global leadership in areas such as space science and digital innovation. In his address, Ambassador Reddy highlighted the growing depth of India–Egypt relations, underscoring extensive cooperation in key sectors such as chemicals, textiles, IT, energy, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, and cultural exchange. Drawing on his recent engagements with several Egyptian ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Trade and Investment, Defence, Youth and Sports, and his meetings with government and business leaders, he expressed strong optimism for expanding collaboration. He also referenced the successful visit of senior Egyptian officials to India earlier this year, where both nations identified promising opportunities in investment, tourism, and technology. Reaffirming India's commitment to strengthening its historic bond with Egypt, Ambassador Reddy noted that both nations, ancient civilizations with proud traditions, are working together to shape a more equitable and interconnected world. Inviting Egyptians to explore India's tourism, education, and cultural offerings, he expressed hope that the friendship between the Nile and the Ganges would continue to flourish. The celebrations continued with cultural performances that infused the atmosphere with patriotic zeal. Egyptian artists Kariman and Jenna Omar captivated the audience with stirring renditions of Dil Diya Hai Jaan Bhi Denge and Ae Watan Aabaad Rahe Tu. Students from MACIC (Maulana Azad Centre for Indian Culture) presented Kathak and Bollywood dance performances, showcasing how cinema, music, and arts are deepening people-to-people connections between the two countries. In the lead-up to the event, MACIC organized a series of competitions—including a Patriotic Song Competition, Indian Dance Competition, and Independence India Quiz—which saw enthusiastic participation. Prizes were awarded to winners during the celebration. The Embassy also felicitated local staff who have served for over 25 years, honoring their dedication and commitment. The celebratory spirit was further enriched by a display of Indian crafts, cuisine, and vibrant visuals from iconic Bollywood films, offering guests a glimpse into India's enduring cultural influence worldwide. The Embassy expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and well-wishers for making the 79th Independence Day in Cairo a true celebration of freedom, friendship, and shared heritage. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid Videos & Features Story behind Trending Jessica Radcliffe Death Video News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt News The Jessica Radcliffe Orca Attack? 100% Fake and AI-Generated
Al-Ahram Weekly
12-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al-Ahram Weekly
From colors of India to multicultural experiences: AUC Tahrir CultureFest continues - Stage & Street - Arts & Culture
As the AUC Tahrir CultureFest continues, attendees are treated to a multicultural array of performances which, alongside seminars and talks, reflect on the event's main theme: Cairo as a Global City. Among the highlights of the festival's second day was an Indian performance — a show that, as expected, proved an instant audience magnet. India in Egypt's cultural fabric Dancers from the Maulana Azad Centre for Indian Culture (MACIC) took the stage in the late afternoon to present a selection of India's finest: Kathak, Garba, and Bollywood dance. Known for its intricate footwork, expressive storytelling, and graceful spins, Kathak — one of India's classical dance forms — has gradually found its way into Egypt's cultural consciousness over the past years. Much credit for raising awareness of Kathak goes to India through the Nile festival, which, between 2013 and 2023, brought us countless creative forms — an ocean of gems — from this fascinating country. Through India by the Nile, many Egyptians were introduced to the elegance of classical Indian dance forms like Manipuri, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Kathakali, as well as vibrant folk traditions such as Garba. Meanwhile, ever-popular Bollywood performances reignited the decades-long Egyptian passion for this particular segment of Indian culture. Although the festival is no longer held, MACIC continues spotlighting Indian heritage through workshops, classes, performances, and cultural collaborations across Egypt. In this context, when MACIC dancers took the stage, they stood before an audience increasingly familiar with Indian artistic traditions. For those encountering Kathak for the first time, the dazzling costumes, hypnotic footwork, and intricate rhythms offered an immediate and irresistible enchantment — captivating the senses and stirring the imagination. Between Kathak segments, the dancers also performed Bollywood routines, whose vibrant energy, cinematic flair, and emotionally charged storytelling continue to find a strong fan base in Egypt — the same audience loyally follows Bollywood through its film industry. 'In our performances inside and outside MACIC, we often present a little bit of something,' commented Ambrij Sarkar, a teacher in culture (TIC) at MACIC who led the group during Tahrir performance. For the past three years, Sarkar has taught Kathak, folkloric dances, singing, saree and dupatta draping, even painting and embroidery at MACIC. 'In other words, I help people explore Indian culture,' he smiles. The Tahrir performance, accompanied by recorded music, featured Sarkar alongside six female performers — some newly connected to MACIC, others with years of experience and artistic growth. 'Our group is much bigger at MACIC, but we do not always incorporate everyone. Still, some shows might see 9 and 10 artists,' Sakrar comments on the frequent performances held by the group, with the upcoming one scheduled on 17 April in MACIC. The day also included a short workshop for the audience gathered in the AUC Tahrir Garden, adding a lively and interactive element to the event. The workshop focused on Garba and Dandiya — a dance performed with sticks. The infectious rhythms and vibrant moves that filled the garden were a joyful reminder of how deeply Indian art is woven into Egypt's cultural fabric. AUC Tahrir CultureFest continues The highly photogenic Indian dances were just one segment of the ongoing AUC Tahrir CultureFest. The programme also featured two performances by the Cairo American College Varsity Dance Team and a cross-cultural collaboration by Nadya Shanab (Egypt) and Fadhilee Itulya (Kenya). According to the AUC press release, the concert—titled Cairobia: Music Beyond Borders—blended Afro-Egyptian influences with rich global sounds, enhanced by Bouda Yazeed's dynamic percussion. Bridging cultures through diverse musical heritages, the performance was a signature event celebrating Cairo as a global city. Elsewhere, families enjoyed a theatrical show by Sitara Theatre, bringing to life stories from Cairo's past through African and Mediterranean dance. AUC's garden, filled with children, offered various activities for the youngest festival-goers: face painting, pottery-making, storytelling, and more. Meanwhile, parents could benefit from yoga classes held inside the university buildings. The day also had an academic note, with panel discussions tackling issues relevant across generations. One panel, Reflections on the Nile: Sustainability, Innovation, and Action, addressed the threat of plastic pollution and explored how education, technology, and entrepreneurship can support water conservation. In another session, Egyptian Startups Going Global, entrepreneurs and investors discussed their experiences in international expansion—and how Egypt can act as a springboard into global markets. Far from the AUC Tahrir building, a group of students participated in a kayaking activity on the Nile—an experience that, as the press release states, "combines adventure with environmental awareness." ------ The second edition of the American University in Cairo's AUC Tahrir CultureFest runs from 10 to 12 April at the Tahrir Cultural Centre. Some events require prior registration and some ticket purchases. Check the festival's Facebook page for more information. Ahram Online and Al-Ahram Weekly are media sponsors of the AUC Tahrir CultureFest. 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