Abu Dhabi/Dubai: Indian expatriates in the UAE are more attached to their roots than their compatriots in other countries because of the favourable atmosphere here, the ambassador said on Sunday.
The Indian community celebrated their 64th Indian Independence day with traditional gaiety.
Living away from their homeland only seemed like instilling stronger national pride in many as hundreds of expatriates were present as the tri-colour flag was hoisted at the Indian diplomatic missions to the accompaniment of the national anthem.
Audio: Feyaza Khan reports on Indian Independence Day Celebrations
In the capital, Indian ambassador MK Lokesh hoisted the Indian flag in the presence of a large number of Indian expatriates who gathered at the mission at eight in the morning. At a function, held at the Embassy auditorium, Lokesh read out the Indian President's message and addressed the gathering. Pupils from Abu Dhabi Indian School and Eduscan Institute performed musical and cultural programmes.
Lokesh told Gulf News that as an envoy he had celebrated the Independence Day with Indians in several other foreign countries, but the Indian community in the UAE had a special attribute. "They are more attached to their roots…traditions etc," he said.
He added that the religious culture in the UAE also helps them to retain their identity. "Many of them have used this favourable atmosphere to put their hard work and become prosperous and successful," Lokesh said.
Community members said they were delighted with the celebrations.
"It's nice. Though we're far away from home country, we're able to celebrate the Independence Day here," said Abu Dhabi resident Suravi Vasu.
Meanwhile, members of the Indian Social and Cultural Centre (ISC) celebrated Independence Day at the ISC premises in Abu Dhabi. M. Thomas Varghese, President of the ISC hoisted the National Flag and addressed the gathering.
Dubai function
Sanjay Verma, Consul General of India in Dubai, unfurled the national flag at the Consulate premises. Close to 1,000 members of the Indian community from all walks of life attended the function.
The Consul General urged all Indians to celebrate Independence Day just like they celebrate festivals. He asked the youth of the nation to strive for excellence in whatever their area of work. Excellence should be the signature of every Indian he added. The programme ended with the singing of patriotic songs by the Dubai-based Malhaar Choir.
Certain shortcomings
Community members who spoke to Gulf News shared their pride in the progress of India but were critical about certain shortcomings.
"India is progressing in several sectors and I am proud of that… but deteriorating law and order situation is a concern", said Dr JN Lal, a project coordinator with a government organisation in Abu Dhabi.
"I am satisfied with the impact India has made on the international arena, but we are still a soft state", said YK Sood, Chief Operating Officer of Engineers India Limited in Abu Dhabi.
How did you celebrate India's Independence Day? Are there any activities you participate in? What does this day mean to you?
