'Tiranga in Two Seas': Indian Community in Bahrain Celebrates 78th Independence Day; H.E. Ambassador Vinod K Jacob Leads the Community

The Ambassador also offered flowers to the Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. The ceremony drew representatives from various Indian communities in Bahrain, business leaders, and families, making it a momentous occasion for the Indian expatriates in Bahrain. Following the flag hoisting, the Ambassador read out the President of India’s message to the Indian community, emphasizing the nation’s progress and aspirations.

During the address, Ambassador Jacob emphasized the deep ties between Bahrain and India, highlighting the mutual understanding and cooperation that bind the two nations. The Ambassador extended his gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for his compassionate gesture in releasing Indian prisoners under a royal pardon. “I thank HM the King and the representatives of the Indian community actively involved in the process,” stated the Ambassador.

Indian diaspora

Ambassador Jacob also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s economic growth and development. He also took the opportunity to brief the attendees on various initiatives undertaken by the Embassy aimed at fostering stronger ties and growth within the Indian community in Bahrain, including the ‘Focus State’ and the ‘Visit Embassy’ programmes.

The second phase of these initiatives is set to begin later this month, with a particular focus on youth empowerment. The ‘Visit Embassy Program’ invites students to engage directly with embassy officers. It provides an opportunity for students and their teachers to participate in interactive sessions at the Embassy, discuss international relations, and gain a deeper understanding of diplomatic affairs.

Photo exhibitions

In addition to these initiatives, the Embassy is hosting two powerful photo exhibitions. One features a visual journey through the significant moments and heroism of Indian soldiers during the Kargil War while the other highlights the tragic impact of the partition to commemorate Partition Horrors Remembrance Day and focuses on the historical impact of the Partition. 

Yesterday, the Ambassador also planted a neem sapling in the Embassy as part of “A Tree in Mother’s Name”, which is a campaign initiated by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizing the importance of trees in our ecosystem. Further, the Ambassador issued messages commemorating the 78th Independence Day through various media outlets in Bahrain through video and print interviews, and interactive campaigns.

He highlighted the significant milestones India has achieved, and the strides made in India-Bahrain bilateral relations in the interviews and messages. Meanwhile, the Independence Day of India was also celebrated at The Indian Club premises. The ceremony included the hoisting of the national flag, followed by the Indian National Anthem.

His Excellency Vinod K Jacob, Ambassador of India to Bahrain, going through the Independence Day special edition of The Daily Tribune after the ceremony with Mahir Haneef, Deputy Editor of The Daily Tribune and News of Bahrain.

Lulu Bahrain Director Juzer Rupawala (centre) attends the 78th Independence Day of India flag-hoisting ceremony at the Embassy of India, Bahrain