The Indian embassy hosted National Youth Day celebrations on 12 January, which was attended by members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India. National Youth Day falls on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
Praising the relationship between India and Kuwait, the Indian Ambassador Sibi George said in his Opening Remarks, “The relationship between India and Kuwait is historic and deep-rooted by civilizational affinities tracing back to centuries. At the heart of this relationship are the people-to-people exchanges which have sustained and nurtured this close relationship over centuries. These vibrant exchanges have transformed the relationship substantially into a mutually beneficial long-standing dynamic partnership.”
Lauding the vibrant Indian community in Kuwait, he said, “The admiration and affection garnered by our community is not a mere coincidence, rather it is the result of the hard work put in by generations of our people living and working here. It is a testimony to our values and ethos of peaceful and harmonious coexistence that we as Indians stand for..”
Emphasizing that Swami Vivekananda was a colossal figure in his nation’s history, he stated, “I am happy that we are unveiling this portrait of Swamiji today at the Embassy. His teachings will continue to influence the lives of every Indian, whether in India or abroad. This portrait will serve as a reminder to us and also to all visitors to our Mission on the contributions of Swamiji who energized the young people, made them aware and unleashed their creative energies.”
Concluding his speech, he said, “It was Swami Ji who said that the fearless, bold, clean-hearted, courageous & aspirational youth is the foundation on which the future of the nation is built. He always believed on youth and youth power.”
Delivering an address on the occasion, President of Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe mention that Indian diaspora in Kuwait is making our country proud despite being away from home, they all have stayed strongly connected to their Indian roots.”
He went on to praise the legacy of Swami Vivekananda, calling him the greatest youth icon, stating, “There cannot be a better way of celebrating the National Youth Day than honoring the legacy of Swami Vivekananda by talking about his teachings to our young generation.”
He added that he was Modern India’s First Cultural Ambassador and emphasized on spirituality beyond rituals, Humanitarianism beyond philanthropy and Fraternity beyond philosophy.
A portrait of Swamiji was unveiled online at the Embassy.