INDIA’s trade and culture were on Sunday showcased at the Pegasus Hotel during an exhibition put on by the Indian High Commission.

The exhibition titled, ‘Namaste India’ was aimed at displaying herbs, spices, tea, jewellery, cosmetics, mehndi and saris, among other traditional items derived from the Indian culture. Additionally, attendees participated in Indian tea tasting and wine tasting even as Indian spices and cook books were on show. According to a statement from the Indian High Commission, the exhibition showcased the finest varieties of Indian tea from the Tea Board of India such as Darjeeling, Nilgri, Assa, and Kangra as well as a variety of the most popular and globally acclaimed wines produced by Grover Zampa Wines of India.

The event which began at 11:00hrs, saw the attendance of several prominent businessmen, and importers as well as representatives of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce (GCCI). “The exhibition helped in further promoting business between India and Guyana and adding more opportunities for Indo-Guyanese trade,” the statement added.
However, the highlight of the ‘Namaste India’ was the ‘Sari draping demonstration’ which began at 18:00hrs and concluded at 20:00hrs. During this session, the art of wearing saris in different styles, including South Indian, Gujarati, Bengali and Marathi was demonstrated by 21 Guyanese models, including Miss Guyana World 2017 and Miss Global International 2017.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, V. Mahalingam, in his address spoke of the bilateral relationship between Guyana and India. He explained that there are ongoing economic activities geared at enhancing collaboration between both countries. Similarly, First Lady Sandra Granger spoke of the excellent bilateral relations Guyana shares with India. Also present at the exhibition were wives of the Ministers of Public Security and Business, Khemraj Ramjattan and Dominic Gaskin.

The women, Mrs. Rajmatti Ramjattan and Mrs. Hans Gaskin, joined the First Lady as special guests.