REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- The 65th Republic Day was marked at the Embassy of India in Jakarta, the Consulate General of India in Bali and the Consulate General of India in Medan with traditional gaiety and fervour. The Ambassador of India, H.E. Mr Gurjit Singh hoisted the National Flag at the Embassy premises and similar ceremonies took place at the Consulates.
Nearly 400 members of the Indian community, PIOs and Friends of India witnessed the Flag hoisting. About 150 school children from 3 Indian schools, Gandhi Memorial International School, the Rama International School and Texmaco DPS School sang the National Anthem and patriotic songs followed by a cultural performance by students of Jawaharlal Nehru Culture Centre, Jakarta. The President’s address was read out by the Ambassador and the Consuls General in the respective places.
A bilingual publication “ Essential Elements of Kathak” in Bahasa and English language produced by the Embassy of India and Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre, Jakarta, was released by Ambassador on the occasion. The hand book explains the intricacies of Kathak dance form in a lucid style and will be of immense help to aspiring students. The book will be widely disseminated in schools/Universities of Indonesia to popularize the dance form.
An exhibition of Visual Arts from eight artists from Central Java was displayed at the Embassy which was inaugurated by the Ambassador. Keeping in view the close cultural ties, these eight artists have specially volunteered in creating 16 exhibits on the occasion of the Republic Day. All the exhibits contain some elements of India which reflects the cultural heritage enjoyed by both countries. The exhibits will also be displayed during the Republic Day Reception scheduled on 27 January 2014. This is a follow up activity to the successful regional initiative of the India Business Forum and the Regional Government of Central Java to expand business and cultural links.
On the occasion of the Republic Day, several charitable organizations, under the umbrella of Indian Cultural Forum, contributed to the relief work by way of food rations, clothes and medical help to the victims affected by the recent floods in various suburbs of Jakarta.
Later, Ambassador interacted with members of Indian community to ascertain their welfare and gave a broad overview of various functions held last year and which are scheduled to be held this year. A sumptuous feast of Indian food delicacies was served to the vast gathering.