Indian Embassy in Riyadh for first time in Saudi celebrates ‘Samskritotsava’

Riyadh: The Embassy of India in Riyadh hosted a one-of-a-kind celebration titled ‘Samskritotsava’ on November 5, as part of the ‘Pravasi Parichay’ initiative. The event marked the first time any Indian Mission globally conducted an entire program in Sanskrit, showcasing the significance of the language in preserving cultural heritage.

Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan, in his opening remarks, emphasized the sacred and spiritual essence of the Sanskrit language, highlighting its role in shaping India's rich culture. He expressed hope that the event would inspire individuals to embrace and practice Sanskrit, fostering a deeper connection with India's linguistic roots.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent endorsement of Sanskrit as the language of "progress and identity" resonated throughout the event. PM Modi, a staunch advocate of ancient Indian languages, underscored the resilience of Sanskrit, stating that it had not only survived the test of time but remained unblemished, contributing to the continuity of India's cultural legacy.

The ‘Samskritotsava’ featured a diverse array of performances by the Indian community in Saudi Arabia, including Abhinaya Gheetam, Gana Geetam, Subhashita Natakam, and Prachanna Vesham, all presented in the Sanskrit language. The event served as a testament to the efforts of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia to keep the flame of Sanskrit alive and thriving.

Sanskrit Day, organized in collaboration with Samskrita Bharati, showcased the commitment of the Indian Embassy to promoting the importance and learning of Sanskrit. The unique initiative aimed to reinforce the idea that Sanskrit is not just a language of the past but a living and evolving heritage, a sentiment echoed by the participants and attendees.