Doha, Qatar: The 79th Independence Day of India was marked with traditional fervour and enthusiasm in Doha on Friday, August 15. An official ceremony was held at the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), in which over 350 members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India residing in Qatar participated.

The ceremony began with the Ambassador of India to Qatar HE Vipul hoisting the Tricolour, followed by singing of the National Anthem by all and paying floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. HE the Ambassador read the excerpts from the Address to the Nation by Hon'ble President of India Smt. HE Droupadi Murmu, delivered on the eve of Independence Day.

In his remarks on the occasion, the Ambassador underscored the deepening of diplomatic ties between India and Qatar and highlighted the establishment of strategic partnership between the two countries during highly successful visit of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to India in February this year. He also recalled the successful meetings held by the Indian multi-party delegation in Qatar in May 2025. He also thanked the leadership of Qatar for their unequivocal condemnation of Pahalgam attack.

HE the Ambassador expressed gratitude to HH the Amir and the Government of the State of Qatar for their continued support and patronage to the Indian community. Applauding the role and contributions of the Indian community, the Ambasador said, "the Indians in Qatar play a pivotal role in India's development and growing ties with the world.” He also commended the various Indian community organisations for their unwavering support in advancing community welfare and progress.

The celebrations were enriched by patriotic songs and vibrant cultural performances presented by members of the Indian community and school children. To ensure broader participation, the event was live-streamed on the Embassy's official Facebook channel and YouTube, allowing those unable to attend in person to join virtually.

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