By Sajeev K Peter
Embassy of India, Kuwait hosted an impressive cultural show on Wednesday to celebrate ‘Odisha Day’, facilitating the Indian state of Odisha that is known for its rich tribal cultures and tradition. "Today, we are here to celebrate Odisha, a great state of India that needs no introduction. It is India’s best kept secret which is like a hidden gem for all visitors to India. It is a gifted serene landscape with uncrowded and unspoilt beaches,” Indian Ambassador Sibi George said in his inaugural address.
Kuwait Odisha Association presented several unique cultural programs as part of the celebration including ‘Vade Utkala Janai’ song, Odissi/Kathak and a Bharatnatyam fusion, Odissi semi-classical dance, Sambalpuri folk dance, etc. The ambassador said that Odisha is one of the fastest growing states of India with its economy registering a growth rate of 10.1 percent in the financial year 2021-22. He invited Kuwaiti business partners to explore Odisha, an attractive destination for mineral-based industries and also include it in their tourism itinerary.
He said that the embassy has been organizing multiple events under the banner ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) and conducting various state facilitation events, focusing on different states of India. "We have been celebrating India in Kuwait with at least one major event being held every week, and at least one online display every day on our social media platforms. The various platforms that we created such as Indian Business Network (IBN), Indian Cultural Network (ICN), Indian Professional Network (IPN) and Indian Readers Network (IRN) are all taking steady steps aimed at showcasing Indian culture, tourism and heritage. We are also deepening our economic engagement and highlighting our scientific achievements,” he said.
The ambassador lauded the Indian associations and groups in Kuwait for wholeheartedly participating in these events and organizing them. "Our Three Ts program to enhance our engagement in trade, technology and tourism is yielding positive results,” he pointed out.
During the event, a video presentation on Odisha focusing on its trade and tourism was made and a documentary on Odisha tourism was shown to the invitees. The ambassador distributed medals to winners of various sports activities organized by the Kuwait Odisha Association. The event witnessed enthusiastic response with people from different walks of life in Kuwait participating virtually as well as physically.