WITH COVID-19 causing the cancellation of celebrations in 2021, the Indian High Commission in Guyana intends to hold two events this year in observance of India’s 73rd Republic Day.
Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. K.J. Srinivasa, spoke to the Guyana Chronicle on Monday about the plans for today’s celebrations.
He said that approximately 600 Indian nationals are expected to gather at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Bel Air, Georgetown, during the morning hours for the first event.
He assured that all COVID-19 precautions and measures will be followed. During that event, there will be a short formal ceremony and flag raising for those not able to celebrate India’s Republic Day in their homeland.
The main event will be held at the same venue from 18:00 hours and will be live on several local television channels as well as the commission’s Facebook page.
Dr. Srinivasa told this publication that President Irfaan Ali and members of his Cabinet will be in attendance at the gala event which will include several cultural performances from both Indian and Guyanese nationals.
He noted that being given the opportunity to share this celebration with Guyana is important.
“For us, linkage is very strong. The Indian culture, religion, customs, tradition and language are held dearly,” he said.
Republic Day marks the day when the Indian Constitution took effect. The constitution was enacted on January 26, 1950, initiating a new era in the history of India.