By: Syed Zia ur Rahman, YaHind.Com
Riyadh, October 29, 2025 – The third edition of “Pravasi Parichay,” the Embassy of India’s vibrant cultural festival celebrating the Indian diaspora’s rich heritage, launched on October 28 with an electrifying Bollywood Musical Night and a stunning art exhibition. Running through November 3, the week-long event promises a kaleidoscope of state-themed performances, classical dances, folk arts, and culinary delights, underscoring India’s ethos of unity in diversity.
Organized by the Embassy of India in Riyadh in collaboration with Indian diaspora associations across Saudi Arabia, Pravasi Parichay has become a cornerstone event since its inception in 2023. This year’s festival aligns seamlessly with National Unity Day on October 31, amplifying themes of cultural cohesion and communal harmony. Enthusiastic participation from the Indian community has been instrumental, with diaspora groups spearheading a lineup of immersive cultural engagements that bridge traditions from across the subcontinent.
Day One set a high bar for the festivities, drawing crowds to the Bollywood Musical Night where local Indian talents took center stage. Singers from the community delivered a mesmerizing blend of evergreen Bollywood classics and contemporary chart-toppers, leaving attendees enchanted by the diaspora’s undimmed passion for music. The performances not only evoked nostalgia but also highlighted the enduring appeal of Indian cinema’s melodic legacy.
Complementing the auditory feast was the “Viksit Bharat Art Exhibition,” a poignant showcase of over 20 paintings crafted by talented women artists from the Indian community. The artworks, brimming with vivid colors and profound narratives, offered a visual tapestry of India’s evolving artistic landscape, from rural folk motifs to modern interpretations of progress and identity. This exhibition served as a powerful testament to the creative prowess within the diaspora, inspiring visitors to reflect on the nation’s journey toward a developed future.
Ambassador Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, in his remarks, lauded the Indian community’s unwavering commitment to the festival’s success. “Year after year, Pravasi Parichay resonates as a triumph thanks to your pivotal contributions,” he stated. “This platform not only spotlights the opulence of our culture, art, and cuisine but also fortifies the invaluable ties between the Embassy and our diaspora family in Saudi Arabia. Together, we weave a stronger narrative of shared pride and belonging.”
As the festival unfolds, attendees can look forward to daily spotlights on various Indian states, featuring authentic folk dances, live music recitals, and regional gastronomic experiences. The event continues to foster a sense of home away from home for the over 2.6 million-strong Indian expatriate population in the Kingdom, reinforcing cultural diplomacy at its finest.
For more details on the schedule and participation, visit the Embassy of India’s official channels or connect with local diaspora associations.
Source: K. N. Wasif
