Tripathi: Strengthening Cultural Ties Between Kuwait and India
The Indian Ambassador emphasized the importance of integrating the Diwali festival with the Kuwaiti Diwaniya to enhance cultural and historical ties between the two countries.
Translated by Qiyas from النهار — Original source
The Ambassador of the Republic of India to Kuwait, Paramita Tripathi, emphasized the importance of strengthening cultural ties between Kuwait and India through initiatives and events that bring together the heritage of both countries. She noted that the “Diwaniyat Diwali” event represents a unique opportunity to bridge the two peoples and highlight their shared cultural commonalities.
In a statement made on the sidelines of the “Diwaniyat Diwali” celebration, held the evening before yesterday, Ambassador Tripathi said the event was attended by Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Asian Affairs Nawaf Al-Ahmad, along with several ambassadors, heads of missions, representatives of international organizations accredited in Kuwait, public figures, and members of the Indian community residing in the country.
She explained that Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most prominent festivals in India, with Indians celebrating it this year on November 8. Meanwhile, the Diwaniya (a traditional Kuwaiti social gathering) represents one of the most important authentic social traditions in Kuwaiti society.
Tripathi added that the idea of combining Diwali and the Diwaniya stemmed from their inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity last year, providing a unique opportunity to celebrate shared cultural heritage and enhance rapprochement between the two countries, especially given the friendly relations and close historical ties binding their peoples.
She pointed out that the event blends the atmosphere of a Kuwaiti Diwaniya with the festive decorations of Diwali, reflecting the spirit of both cultures and contributing to strengthening Indian-Kuwaiti relations. She noted that she was surprised, since her arrival in Kuwait, by the openness of Kuwaiti society and its interest in learning about other cultures.
Tripathi highlighted that she received a warm welcome from Kuwaiti society, including Diwaniya hosts, affirming that she has never felt like a stranger in Kuwait, but rather feels at home, which gives special significance to celebrating Diwali in Kuwait for her.
She observed that Indian and Kuwaiti cultures share many values, foremost among them openness, hospitality toward other cultures, and respect for elders, as well as a shared commercial and historical legacy. She noted that many Kuwaitis are accustomed to visiting India and spending one or two months there annually, and some speak Indian languages, including Malayalam, fluently.
Tripathi called on Kuwaiti youth to visit India and learn about its culture and heritage, stressing the importance of encouraging young entrepreneurs and business leaders to explore available opportunities and enhance exchange and communication between the business communities of both countries.
Regarding education, she expressed her hope to welcome more Kuwaiti students in Indian universities, noting that procedures for the recognition of Indian universities by relevant Kuwaiti authorities are still ongoing, with hopes that some will be approved in the near future.
On the investment front, she confirmed the presence of Kuwaiti investors and companies in India that have benefited from available opportunities and achieved positive results. She noted that some Kuwaiti companies have offices in India, and expressed her country’s desire to attract more Kuwaiti investments and enhance mutual economic presence.
