The Embassy of India, Riyadh, is organizing the third edition of “Pravasi Parichay,” a cultural festival that will run from October 28 to November 3, 2025. Launched in 2023 in partnership with Indian diaspora associations in Saudi Arabia, the festival celebrates India’s diverse cultural heritage. It features state-themed days showcasing Indian classical dance, music, folk art, and culinary traditions. The festival also coincides with National Unity Day on October 31, reinforcing India’s values of unity in diversity. The event has garnered enthusiastic participation from the Indian community in Saudi Arabia, with diaspora organizations playing a key role in organizing performances and cultural engagements.
On Day Three (October 30), we celebrated the rich cultural diversity of India, with a vibrant array of cultural performances from the states of Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana and Rajasthan.
The event commenced with an energetic cultural parade, with lively performances including Chenda Melam, Nasik Dhol, Thalapoli, and a performance by the School Band Melam. The parade was flagged off by Ambassador of India Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan.
The main cultural performances at the Embassy Auditorium began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Ambassador in the presence of the state coordinators and steering committee members. The music and dance performances that followed highlighted the diversity of Indian states.
The audience was treated to the graceful Mohiniyattam; the energetic Thiruvadira dance; a fusion of Kerala’s traditional and contemporary styles in the Kerala Fusion Dance; and the vibrant Oppana dance from the state of Kerala. A mesmerizing Qawwali performance from Uttar Pradesh showcased its rich cross-cultural heritage. The Group Dance performance from Delhi was a lively blend of traditional and contemporary. The cultural richness of Rajasthan came to life through colorful dance performances, soulful Rajasthani Folk Songs, and a humorous Rajasthani Comedy Skit. The dynamic Group Cultural Dance from Haryana, featuring local folk dances, were well appreciated by the audience.
Pravasi Parichay’s State-themed celebrations offer a platform to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia to showcase India’s diverse cultural and art forms. Three more state day cultural programs are planned for 31 Oct, 01 & 02 November, which promise to be excellent displays of India’s multifaceted cultural and artistic traditions.
