KUWAIT: The longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait was once again reaffirmed as Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr Adarsh Swaika, hosted a Ramadan Ghabga at his residence, India House. Dr Swaika emphasized that the tradition of Ghabga, a Ramadan gathering popular in Kuwait, has been warmly embraced by the Indian community. “This is a tradition which we have inherited from our Kuwaiti friends,” he remarked. “In India, we also celebrate Ramadan and Eid with great fervor and joy, but we have adapted to such a fine tradition of Ghabga.”

As the event brought people from all walks of life, he expressed hope that the gathering would further strengthen the bond between Kuwait and India, fostering deeper friendships and cooperation. India and Kuwait share a rich history of cultural and economic ties, with a vibrant Indian expatriate community playing a vital role in Kuwait’s development. The Ghabga event provided a platform to celebrate this relationship, bringing together distinguished Kuwaiti guests and international diplomats alongside Indian community members.

Live performance at the Inidan embassy featuring classical Indian music on sitar, tabla, and flute. - Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

The evening was a showcase of Indian cultural heritage, featuring live performances of classical Indian music on sitar, tabla, and flute, creating a unique ambiance. Attendees were also treated to a specially curated menu of popular Indian Ramadan dishes such as biryani, sewai (sweet vermicelli), and jalebi, which are commonly enjoyed during the holy month in India.

Dr Swaika highlighted Ramadan’s special significance in India, home to the world’s second-largest Muslim population. “The month is marked across India with streets illuminated with lights, food markets bustling with Ramadan delicacies, and people from all faiths exchanging greetings,” he noted. “Ramadan is a beautiful reflection of India’s vibrant diversity, where people from different social, cultural, and religious backgrounds coexist in harmony.” The Indian community in Kuwait, which numbers over a million, actively participates in local Ramadan traditions, including hosting Ghabga gatherings.