Antananarivo: A Centre for Indian Diaspora in Madagascar titled ‘Indian Dhow’ was inaugurated today by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar Richard Randriamandrato, in presence of the Ambassador of India Abhay Kumar and the Chairman of Vision Madagascar Zouzar Bouka in Antananarivo.
The event was attended by the members of the Indian diaspora in Madagascar, Ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps and the high officials of the Malagasy Government including Sophie Ratsiraka, Minister of Handicrafts.
Speaking on the occasion Zouzar Bouka said: “I had this idea a long time ago to build something, in Madagascar, that is linked to India, my country of origin. I would like to thank in particular Ambassador Abhay Kumar who has encouraged me to go for it and not wait any longer. In the centre, we have a permanent exhibition on the history of Indian families who immigrated from India to Madagascar and who play a key role in the society and economy of Madagascar. The centre will also be a place of remembrance and intercultural opportunities. Programmes are planned to be organized by the centre including sessions on Yoga and Ayurveda.”
Ambassador Abhay Kumar addressing the gathering recalled that on March 27, 2021, a special exhibition on the history of Indian diaspora in Madagascar was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Madagascar Christian Ntsay at the Indian Embassy. “An exhibition that came to life with contributions from the members of the Indian community has found a permanent place today,” Abhay said.
He further added- “Indian people in Madagascar not only play a crucial role economically but also enrich Madagascar’s cultural and social diversity. Today I feel proud to see a Centre for Indian Diaspora take shape. I believe this centre will flourish as a centre for the promotion of a greater understanding of Indian diaspora in Madagascar, their role and contributions to the Malagasy society and economy.”
On the occasion, Foreign Minister of Madagascar Richard Randriamandrato said: “As the centre is not only for the Indian Diaspora but for the general public as well, we hope that everyone would benefit from it. Developing social and economic relations with India is very important and we hope that we will continue to work together. Indian Diaspora members contribute to the development of the bilateral relations between Madagascar and India.”
The Centre has a permanent exhibition on the history of various Indian families who came to Madagascar and have made a niche for themselves in the social, commercial and cultural fabric of Madagascar and a video presentation on the various articles and artefacts associated with the Indian diaspora in Madagascar. It will host various events from time to time and conduct tours to promote an understanding of the history, role, achievements and contributions of the Indian diaspora in Madagascar.
– global bihari bureau
