Republic Day celebrations low key affair this year in Gulf

Due to pandemic-triggered restrictions and social distancing norms, the usually jubilant celebrations were visibly low-key this year, but some cultural programmes were held to mark the day.

Jeddah: Indian Missions across the Gulf region scaled down Republic Day celebrations this January 26 following the Covid-19 pandemic. Due to pandemic-triggered restrictions and social distancing norms, the usually jubilant celebrations were visibly low-key this year, but some cultural programmes were held to mark the day.

Eager and select NRI community members celebrated the country’s Republic Day, participating in the flag hoisting ceremony which took place at the Consulate General of India in Jeddah while scores of others participated virtually. The Indian flag was hoisted by Y Sabir, acting consul general.

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In Riyadh, Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed hoisted the flag, followed by the rendering of national anthem. He read out President Ram Nath Kovind’s address to the nation. Patriotic songs and dance performance by Indian School students in Riyadh thrilled the audience.

In Dubai, the Republic Day was celebrated without much fanfare, while adhering to the Covid-19 safety protocols. Unlike in the past, celebrations were visibly low-key this year. The flag hoisting ceremony in the Consulate was only attended by Consulate officials in Dubai, according to officials.

Ramdas Athawale, the Indian Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment was part of the celebrations in Dubai.

The celebrations were held by adhering to social distancing norms in Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain also.

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