External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and several foreign envoys to India, including from Denmark and Afghanistan, took part in the massive Navratri celebrations underway in Vadodara in Gujarat and praised India’s rich culture and heritage.
They shared their excitement after participating in the festivities, which saw thousands of people perform Garba, a popular dance form held during Navaratri. With the presence of foreign delegates, the well-organised event likely bolstered India’s soft-power image across the globe.
“I am so full of joy and happiness. I wish all Indians across the world a happy Navratri and may the light break the darkness,” Danish Ambassador Freddy Svane said.
“It’s so fantastic, so amazing, it is just awesome. This is incredible India indeed, I just love it,” said the High Commissioner of the Republic of Botswana to India, Gilbert Shimane Mangole.
At the event on Saturday, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar also performed an ‘aarti’ of Maa Durga.
“It is a matter of pride that we have come here with officials from different countries. As the Navratri festival is on, they will spend the day enjoying festivities. They are excited to see the development here, “ Jaishankar said after meeting the delegates and ambassadors.
Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov also attended the festivities and called himself “Russie Rajdoot”. “Bohot shaandar mahotsav hai (It’s an incredible festival),” he added.
The High Commissioner of the Republic of Fiji, Kamlesh Prakash, was amazed to participate in Garba. He said, “Garba shows why people in Gujarat are happy, Modi magic is, of course, there to galvanise people like a magnet.”
