Antananarivo: On the occasion of the 75 years of India’s Independence to mark the celebrations of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Embassy of India, Antananarivo, Madagascar is celebrating the age old Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The Whole Earth is a Family) during the month of September, 2021.
In his welcome remarks at the celebrations of 57th ITEC [Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme] Day earlier this month, Ambassador Abhay Kumar emphasised on the essence of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, saying – “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, is one of the core philosophies of the Indian civilization since ancient times and ITEC is a living example of the practice of this philosophy.”
ITEC is a bilateral assistance programme run by the Government of India. It is a demand-driven, response-oriented programme that focuses on addressing the needs of developing countries through innovative technological cooperation between India and the partnering nation. India has provided training to over 200,000 professionals from 161 partner countries under ITEC programme since 1964. Madagascar is a crucial part of this family and ITEC programme is one of the many ways in which India has been a partner of Madagascar in its development journey.
To mark the occasion, a painting competition on the theme of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam was organised by the Indian Embassy, here. The winners were declared on September 28, 2021. The first prize went to Upasi Vaidya, 2nd Prize to Mialisoa- Maya Ramiharimiadana and the 3rd Prize to Natoa Rasolonjatovo.
The Embassy building was lit up with a special projection of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam on the evening of September 28, 2021. The winning entries of the painting competition were also projected on the building.
Madagascar’s celebrated Valiha player Germain Randrianrisoa (aka Rajery), who is one of the members of the contemporary African music group 3MA and a living music legend of Madagascar, spoke about the importance of the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
Ambassador Abhay Kumar wrote an article highlighting the meaning and significance of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and how India’s world view is guided by this ancient Indian philosophy from Maha Upnishad.
– global bihari bureau
