By Fred Ezeh
Culture is defined as the people’s way of life. In midst of increasing world population, culture seem to be the only tool that could be used to identify and differentiate people of different race, geographical location, language, amongst others.
India is one of the most populated countries in the world, just like Nigeria. India is obviously blessed with people of diverse culture, religious belief, numerous languages, ethnic differences and different political affiliations.
A good number of them have also settled around the world, doing amazing exploits that contribute significantly to socio-economic development of the world.
In a bid to strengthen unity, brotherliness and celebrate culture, Indian nationals in Abuja, last week, gathered at the premises of their High Commissioner located at the diplomatic drive, Central Business District to celebrate their annual cultural day.
It was also a moment of reunion filled with hugs, laugher, pact on the back, handshakes, exchange of pleasantries and other traditional greetings from the Indians, some of whom, by virtue of their schedules hardly meet to discuss issues that concerns them.
Their children were gorgeously dressed in attires that depict their root, perhaps to bring them closer to their identity. Some of them who were not conversant with their culture, by virtue of their distance from home, were equally exposed to the deepest part of Indian culture.
It was indeed a beehive of activities in and around the venue, as it witnessed unprecedented movement of vehicle convoy of both government and private individuals, alongside members of the diplomatic corp who were handy to celebrate with the Indians.
Invited friends, colleagues and well wishers of Indian community in Nigeria came out en mass to celebrate the Indians. The celebration brought them face to face with what was being watched in bollywood movies.
There were no a dull moment, as every minute was for one side attraction or the other. At a point, guests who couldn’t understand Indian language were totally lost when interactions, drama, music and other information were passed using the Indian language.
In total, it was an impressive outing, as culture, fashion, music, drama, and religious identities were in full display.
The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Nogeshwar Reddy, who appeared in full Indian regalia, told Abuja Metro that the celebration was part of a unique religious and cultural festival in India, and it involves fasting and supplication, and culminate in festival.
He said: “Indians use the occasion to pray for the peace and socio-economic development of India and its people. Every festival in India, just like in Nigeria, is associated with dancing, music and display of culture, and that was why we gathered.
“At such event, we don’t only showcase the uniqueness and the rich content of Indian culture but bring in the culture of our host nation so we could celebrate together, and perhaps, strengthen whatever bilateral relationship we had.”
He commended Nigerians and the government for their hospitality and support which is evident in the success being recorded by the Indians in their businesses and other endeavour, resulting in collective growth and development.