Embassy of India, Khartoum in association with the Indian Friendship Club and the Indian community in Sudan celebrated the 'Ugadi & Gudhi Padwa festivals'

Embassy of India, Khartoum in association with the Indian Friendship Club and the Indian community in Sudan celebrated the ‘Ugadi & Gudhi Padwa festivals' at Indian Friendship Club, Khartoum on 24 March 2023. The celebrations mark the arrival of spring and harvest. Ugadi celebrates in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Goa in India and Gudhi Padwa celebrates in Maharashtra, Goa, and Madhya Pradesh.

The event started with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony by the Ambassador of India, his spouse, Mr. Mohammed Salih President of IFC and members from the Indian community.

While speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador of India, Mr. B.S Mubarak highlighted the importance of Indian festivals and appreciated members of the Indian community in Sudan for their enthusiasm to celebrate Indian festivals in Sudan to showcase Indian culture and tradition to Sudanese and other foreigners. During the event Ambassador of India honoured Mr. Mohammed Salih, President IFC for his efforts to promote and strengthen India-Sudan Friendship.

The event was well attended by more than 150 Indian nationals, Sudanese friends, and friends of India. Two videos showing the importance and significance to celebrate Ugadi and Gudhi Padwa festivals were screened. Cultural performances were presented by the members of the community. Also, a quiz competition about India was also organized on the occasion and winners of the quiz were awarded prizes.

To celebrate the 'International Year of Millets 2023 (IYM-2023)', Ambassador spoke on the leadership role being played by India in promoting millets throughout the world. Two videos on IYM-2023 were screened to showcase India’s role in promoting millets and the benefits of using millets.

Traditional dishes from Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra states were served at the end of the event.