Address by the High Commissioner on the occasion of  77th ICCR Day 

Friday, 10th April 2026 

Namaskar, Kia ora, and Good evening to everyone, 

First, I would like to warmly welcome and acknowledge our respected guests and two Judges; 

- Mrs. Prabha Ravi ji, Councillor, Hutt City; 

- Mrs. Parita Bose ji, Director of Shivam Dance Academy; Students, teachers, and all ladies and gentlemen. 

It is a great pleasure for me to extend my warm greetings to all of you on the occasion of the 77th Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). This day is very special for all those who learn, teach, enjoy, and appreciate Indian culture. 

मुझे मु अत्यंत हर्ष हो रहा हैकि मैंआप सभी को भारतीय सांस्कृतिक संबंध परिषद, यानी ICCR के 77 वें स्थापना दिवस के अवसर पर हार्दिक शुभशुकामनाएंदेती हूँ। यह दिन उन सभी लोगों के लिए बहुत विशेष हैजो भारतीय संस्कृति को सीखतेहैं, सिखातेहैं, उसका आनंद लेतेहैं और उस की सराहना करतेहैं। 

2. As you may know that the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, or ICCR, was established on 9th, April 1950 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, a great freedom fighter and independent India’s first Education Minister. Its aim is to strengthen cultural relations between India and the world, promote mutual understanding, and encourage cultural exchange.
3. Over the years, ICCR has done remarkable work offering more than 4,000 scholarships every year to international students, supporting academic and cultural exchanges. Please refer to the High Commission’s website and help us disseminate such valuable scholoarship opportunities provided by ICCR. ICCR also promotes yoga, classical dance, music, and Indian languages abroad, and organizes festivals, exhibitions, and conferences worldwide. We have been organizing the International Day of Yoga on 21st June at the Parliament with the support of ICCR.
4. Every country and every community is shaped by its culture, values, and history. To understand a culture is to understand its people. The beauty of our world lies in its diversity, and cultural connections help build peace, friendship, and harmony among people. ICCR has played an important role in connecting people across the globe and sharing the richness of Indian culture.
5. We are also happy to share that at our Auditorium Hall here at the Chancery, we regularly organize various India-wide programmes, cultural events, motivational talks, and wellness sessions, along with regional celebrations.
6. Today, it is wonderful to see so many children and students participating in activities like Indian dress, painting, and essay competitions. Your creativity and enthusiasm truly reflect the vibrant spirit of our youth. These events also help us reconnect with the younger generation and the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.
7. It will be my sincere effort to further strengthen the relationship between India and New Zealand especially in trade, business, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections.
8. At the same time, I deeply appreciate the Indian and Kiwi community for the such warm welcome and openness. This truly reflects the strength of our shared diversity. The Indian diaspora is always close to our hearts, and your welfare remains a priority for us.
9. I hope you all enjoy the cultural programmes planned for today, and I sincerely thank you for joining us on this special occasion.

Thank you once again.  

Namaste! 

Jai Hind! 

*****