The Ministry of Media, Saudi Arabia and the Global Entertainment Authority collaborated to organise an ambitious program under Global Harmony Initiative to celebrate India Festival for nine days for Indian diaspora living here and people from other countries living here.

Huge response to India festival speaks for the success of India festival at All Suwaidi Park. Not only Indians but people from other countries who live in Saudia Arabia attended.

Bollywood singers like Himesh Reshammiya and other dancers, artists, cricket star Srisanth performed at the Al Suwaidi Park here in the presence of thousands of Indians and people from other countries. Indian artists mesmerised the audience through their amazing performances.

Beside these performances, there was a big bazar where Indian products were put up for sale. The Indian food was very much appreciated.

The members of Indian community who visited the festival, appreciated the efforts of Saudi Arabia government for bringing so many known and popular artists to Riyadh. They opined that such efforts would certainly strengthen the relations between two countries.

Indian ambassador Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan inaugurated the festival and watched the performance of Indian singer Himesh Reshammiya and other artists. Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan appreciated the efforts of Saudi government and said that Global Harmony Initiative of Ministry of Media will further strengthen the relations between the two countries.

The Global Harmony Initiative aims to showcase the diverse lives of expatriates in Kingdom from different countries and cultures.

Indian community in Saudi Arabia is 2.65 million strong and is a living bridge between two counties. Indian diaspora contribution to economic development of Saudi Arabia is widely recognised.

According to Saudi embassy report, the number of Indians is increasing steadily. Over the last year, an estimated two lakh Indians visited Saudi Arabia for employment.

Under the Global Harmony Initiative, beside India, the other participating countries are the Philippines, Indonesia, Pakistan, Yemen, Sudan, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Egypt. (IPA Service)