Riyadh: The Embassy of India, in association with other diplomatic missions based in Riyadh, celebrated International Women's Day on March 8, 2023. The event had enthusiastic participation from the diplomatic community, Saudi nationals, journalists, members of the Indian community and expatriates of other nationalities. The ambassadors of Sri Lanka, Cuba, South Africa, Lebanon, Gambia, Algeria, Vietnam, and the EU graced the occasion.
The event was moderated by Vijayalakshhmi N. Ram Prasad, who traced the history of Women's Empowerment in India after Independence. She also highlighted various government schemes to increase the participation of Women in India in Education and Economic fields.
The event started with speeches and panel discussions by prominent speakers and panellists from India, Saudi Arabia and Australia. The speakers and panellists included Salma Naz Parwar Khan, educationalist and retired Principal from Kendriya Vidyalaya in India, Dr Harbeen Arora Rai, Chancellor of Rai Group of Universities and Founder of ALL (All Ladies League) and WEF (Women Economic Forum), Smitha Ramesh, nutritionist and Shushma Shan, a life coach and motivational speaker.
They spoke about the status of women in India and the contribution of Indian women in all walks of life, including economic activities and the political landscape. Ms. Noor Nugali, Asst. Editor-in-chief of the prominent English daily Arab News spoke about the social transformation taking place in Saudi Arabia and the growing participation of women in economic activities. Sofia Connelly, First Secretary, Embassy of Australia in KSA, spoke about "Women in leadership position" in the Australian Foreign Ministry.
The event also included a variety of colourful cultural performances. Indian students from various schools presented a number of classical and popular cultural performances, including on nari shakti. School students from Sri Lanka presented cultural performances depicting the cultural diversity of their country. A singer from the Philippines presented songs. Ladies from the Indian Embassy also presented a fashion show, deprecating rich cultural diversity from states like UP, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Bihar and Jharkhand.
An Art exhibition depicting various themes of lady painters from India and the Philippines was showcased. Sari and Indian costumes were also displayed. In keeping up the theme of International Year of Milltes, a Millet corner was set up, and guests were served Millet-based snacks. Sri Lankan and Philippine Embassy also served delicacies from their countries.
Ambassador Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan presented mementoes and certificates to all the participants.
International Women's Day is celebrated by promoting 'Nari Shakti' and recognizing exceptional work undertaken towards women's empowerment. This day is marked every year by celebrating women's
achievements, focusing on the elimination of gender-based violence and discrimination along with adopting innovative approaches to bring changes to the social, political, economic and cultural empowerment of women.