Press Release

India Day

at Horticulture Building, Lansdowne Park

on Friday, September 29, 2017

The High Commission of India organised "India Day" as part of Ottawa Welcomes the World 2017 to celebrate Canada’s 150th Anniversary of Confederation and the 70th Anniversary of India's Independence at Horticulture Building, Lansdowne Park, on Friday, September 29, 2017 from 1000 hrs to 1930 hrs.

This day-long event, held in coordination with Indo Canadian associations in Ottawa and Montreal, was a magnificent showcase of Indian art, culture, tradition and cuisine. The activities included incessant stage performances with melodious instrumental music from India, Indian classical, folk and contemporary dances, Yoga session by trained instructors, gorgeous display of traditional dresses from different Indian provinces in a fashion show and elegant Odissi Dance by ICCR sponsored group of Ms Debamitra Sengupta. Various local exhibitors provided an opportunity to purchase Indian dresses, jewellery, artifacts, spices, snacks and tea.

India Day was officially inaugurated by Hon'ble Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities and His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of City of Ottawa. The occasion was also graced by Hon'ble Deepak Obhrai, MP, Hon'ble Karen McCrimmon, MP, Hon'ble Chandra Arya, MP, Hon'ble Lisa MacLeod, MPP, Mr David Hartman, Director General, Asia Pacific Bureau, Global Affairs, Canada and Mr Guy Laflamme, Executive Director, Ottawa 2017.

A highlight of India Day was the Canada release of the set of commemorative stamps on the Ramayana which were also available for sale and which proved to be very popular with visitors.

The attendees were enthralled by classical and folk dances from India, the culinary delights from both North and South and the amazing workshops teaching yoga and explaining the benefits of Ayurveda and the Acupressure technique of healing. Visitors queued up to take a memorable picture in front of the Taj Mahal and ladies were eager to get henna designs on their hands as also to learn how to wear the Indian sari. There was even an Indian astrologer to divine the future.

Around 3500 persons of all age groups and all walks of life joined the celebrations besides dignitaries from the federal, provincial and city governments. Members of the diplomatic corps also enjoyed the festivities.

In a nutshell, India Day replicated a Mini India in Ottawa and was greatly appreciated by everyone who attended the day-long event.

Ottawa

30.9.17