Bangladesh HC in Delhi celebrates belated Independence Day
The Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi shimmered with the spirit of Bangladesh’s Independence Day, celebrated belatedly on the warm summer evening of Thursday, nearly three months after its official date of March 26.
The delay, attributed to the arrival and credential presentation of Bangladesh’s new High Commissioner to India and the observance of Ramadan, did little to dim the enthusiasm of the hundreds gathered to honour the occasion.
The event drew a distinguished crowd – ambassadors, high commissioners, senior diplomats, government officials, scholars, civil society members, and media professionals – all united to commemorate Bangladesh’s journey and its enduring partnership with India.
The air was thick with anticipation as guests filled the opulent halls, their conversations weaving a tapestry of shared history and future aspirations.
The guest of honour, Kirti Vardhan Singh, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, took the stage to deliver a heartfelt address. He spoke of the “enduring strength” of India-Bangladesh ties, describing them as “forged through shared experiences and sacrifices.”
His words painted a picture of a partnership that transcends borders, rooted in a history of mutual support and a vision for a prosperous future.
Singh highlighted the multifaceted nature of the bilateral relationship, touching on trade, connectivity, energy, security, and cultural exchanges. “This partnership is a foundation that is both resilient and forward-looking,” he said, emphasiaing its critical role in fostering regional peace and prosperity. “India will continue to support the people of Bangladesh for a mutually beneficial and friendly relationship,” he pledged, his words met with warm applause.
Bangladesh’s High Commissioner, Riaz Hamidullah, echoed Singh’s sentiments but added a forward-thinking call to action. “We celebrate this evening not just to remember the past, but to reflect on the future – as neighbours and partners in progress,” he said. His speech struck a chord, urging a re-imagination of regional partnerships to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Hamidullah pointed to a recent milestone as a beacon of possibility: the transmission of 40 MW of Nepalese hydropower to Bangladesh via India.
This, he said, exemplified the potential of sub-regional synergy. As the current chair of BIMSTEC, Bangladesh is poised to lead the charge in revitalising regional cooperation, a commitment he reaffirmed with quiet resolve.
The evening was not just a diplomatic affair but a vibrant celebration of Bangladeshi culture.
Guests were treated to a dazzling showcase of traditional Jamdani sarees, their intricate weaves a testament to the country’s rich artisanal heritage.
The culinary highlight, however, stole the show. Chefs from Dhaka’s renowned Fakhruddin Catering, flown in especially for the occasion, presented a menu that transported attendees to the streets of Dhaka.
The star of the night was the iconic Dhakaiya Kacchi Biriyani, its fragrant layers of spiced rice and tender meat leaving guests in awe.
