The traditional marchpast was applauded by the audience. Kamal Kassim / Gulf Today

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

Indians in the UAE celebrated the 71st Republic Day on Sunday with patriotic fervour soaring high as they commemorated the date when the Constitution of India came into effect. The celebratory spirit perfectly reflected the pride every Indian feels for the nation and its exemplary achievements.

Main functions were held at the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, where Indian Ambassador to the UAE Pavan Kapoor hoisted the national flag of India, at the Consulate General of India in Dubai and at the Indian High School (IHS) in Dubai, where Consul General of India in Dubai Vipul unfurled the national flag.

A crowd of over 5,000 people, including the teachers, parents and students had enthusiastically gathered at the Indian High School, Dubai, to salute the tricolour. The campus echoed with patriotic chants as Vipul unfurled the Indian National Flag.

Later in the evening  the iconic Burj Khalifa lit up in tricolour to celebrate India's 71st Republic Day. Wishing all the people of India a Happy Republic Day.

Community Development Authority of Dubai CEO Dr. Omar Al Muthanna, Chairman of the school Girish Jethwani and other prominent members of the community were present on the occasion.

The school celebrated the Republic Day with an extravaganza of performances. This year more than 2,000 students from all three campuses put up a series of acts accentuating this year’s theme – ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family).

The school expressed its unanimity by celebrating world cultures, connections and creativity. Expo 2020 themes were also beautifully woven into the celebrations to bespeak the love and connection that exists between UAE and India.

As is the tradition every year, the school also hosted Students of Determination from Al Noor, Rashid Centre for People of Determination and Special Needs Future Development Centre. Students from all three schools walked along with the IHS students and staff holding high the spirit of inclusion, coexistence and tolerance.

In his address, Consul General Vipul said, “It is admirable that IHS is continuing the tradition of celebrating Republic Day at such a scale. It is my third year in a row here and every time I have felt great pride being part of the celebrations.”

Reading extracts from the President of India’s message delivered on the eve of the Republic Day, Vipul highlighted that the values that shaped Indian independence and that continue to shape the Republic are also the values that uphold the supremacy of the people of India.

Punit MK Vasu, CEO – the Indian High School Group of Schools, said, “It’s wonderful to be back at my Alma Mater. The Republic Day celebrations bring back many happy memories and it’s a small gesture where we bring the community together. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is the ancient philosophy of the Upnishads but even more relevant in today’s world.”

He added, “Our students are the face of our institution and this event gives them an opportunity to present their talent as well as show their love for the country.”

Parents who attended the hour-long function were impressed as the parade and the ensuing pageantry were in perfect orchestration.

Equally impressive was the traditional march past comprised of various contingents that included school students as well as the children with special needs from the unique humanitarian organisations.

The participation of children with special needs was a remarkable attempt to sensitise the students towards service to society.

Sadaf Jabeen, a parent, said that the day acquired the status of a social celebration in which people participated whole-heartedly.

“The spectacular floor shows by students captivated the attention of each Indian present here. Variations in India’s culture were correctly displayed through colourful attires and a spectrum of captivating drills,” she said.

Shahnawaz, another parent, said that this occasion should serve to inspire the children to read the Constitution of India.

“They, the children here and in India, are the ones who have to bring about social and economic change. They should read the Constitution of India because in the Constitution of our country is the dream of India. As they grow they must treat the constitution with respect and give it their energy,” he said.