India Day Festival Inaugurated in Moscow, Celebrating Family and Cultural Unity
Report by Denis von Meck
Moscow, August 15 — The “India Day” cultural festival opened today at the Dream Island landscape park, offering city residents and tourists an immersive experience of India’s rich culture, customs, and diverse cuisine. The festival’s opening coincides with India’s Independence Day, focusing on the theme of family and family values throughout its events.
The festivities commenced at noon with the raising of the Indian flag, followed by the official inauguration. Sammy Kotwani, President of the Indian Cultural and National Center “Sita,” welcomed the first wave of visitors, who numbered in the thousands.
At 5 p.m., the grand opening ceremony was held, attracting representatives from various Russian regions and nearly 30 embassies. The international participation at the event underscored the famous Hindu saying, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “The whole world is a family.”
The festival’s program offers a wide array of family-oriented activities, including:
- Vocal Training: Singing mantras together
- Vedic Psychology: Workshops on building harmonious relationships
- Sadhana: Insights into how daily rituals can transform lives
- Bhagavad Gita Wisdom: Ten essential tips for daily life
- Family Fun Competitions: “Mom, Dad, I am a sports family,” “The Best Family Portrait,” “Songs about Friendship, Family, and Love,” “The Best Singing Family,” and “The Best Family Dance”
- Family Dream House: A collaborative activity where families build a model house together
Visitors to the festival can explore over 20 thematic sites, participate in an extensive educational program featuring lectures and masterclasses, and shop at an Indian fair. The event has attracted more than 70 yoga instructors, over 200 Indian and Russian dancers, and approximately 120 vendors offering Indian goods.
Spanning 27 hectares, the festival area is adorned with colorful garlands, tents, and sculptures, creating a vibrant atmosphere. All events are free, catering to visitors of all ages. Families who register online in advance will receive gifts at the entrance.
Organizers anticipate around 3 million visitors over the four days of the festival.
Article and photos by Denis von Meck, a Russian friend of India.
