Indians celebrate I-Day with fervour, festivities…

Aug 16, 2008

DUBAI & ABU DHABI - The Indian expatriates in the UAE celebrated their country's 62nd Independence Day with patriotic zeal and fervour.

The flag-hoisting ceremonies at the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi and the consulate-general in Dubai were attended by a large number of people.

Social gatherings and traditional dance performances were staged at various places.

Excitement was oozing from tiny-tots, who turned up in colourful attire and faces painted with the Indian tricolour, to join in the singing of the national anthem at the diplomatic missions.

Community members, who spoke to Khaleej Times, said the expatriates have a major role to play in the development of the country.

The youth participating in the celebrations in Abu Dhabi said their country means a lot to them and they felt nostalgic about celebrations back home.

There were also people for whom the occasion was to pledge to lend some assistance to the downtrodden at home. Altaf M.S., who is living in Abu Dhabi for the past six years, said, "We should shell out a small amount from our annual earning and invest it for the education of the underprivileged children in India. The amount might be little for us, but it would be a huge help for many in need and can help shape up their future. As per my calculation, around Dh700-Dh1,000 a year would be sufficient to educate a child in India which, of course, is not a big amount for overseas Indians."

"I am spreading the message among the Indian community. I think this could help eradicate the poverty," Altaf added.

Jidesh Devedas, 18, born and raised in the UAE, said, "We are delighted to be here for the Independence Day celebrations. On this occasion, we feel that things should be changed in India for the middle and lower classes to prosper. "

Mahboob Mohammed Habeeb, 18 , also born and brought up in the UAE, was concerned about the leadership of the country. He said, "We should resolve to help the poor people. In my opinion, the leadership of the country should be in the hands of those who feel concerned for India. If there is good leadership, things would begin to improve in all areas and, in turn, help reduce poverty in India."

Shanu Abubakar, 18, insisted on visiting the poor patients lying in hospitals in order to share their sufferings. "It is our duty to help them out. In this way, we can make a better 'Incredible India'," Shanu said.

Niket Chauhan, living in Abu Dhabi since childhood, said, "The responsibility lies on citizens of India, too, to take measures to weed out poverty and corruption. We should not blame the government and politicians all the time. The people of India need to come forward to contribute to the country's development."