Music, food and unity: Romania celebrates Republic Day in Delhi

A gathering at the Romanian ambassador's residence in Delhi gave a warm welcome on a chilly winter evening as diplomats and artists from around the globe came together to celebrate unity through music. Musicians Stephen Devassy and Ustad Kamal Sabri set the tone for the evening with a fusion performance, echoing unity and joy. Marked with continental food like avocado toast, Romanian Wine, and Tempura Sushi, the spirit of togetherness was mirrored in the food as well.

'Music has no borders'

The ambassador’s 10-year-old daughter, Nisa Latif sang a French song with Stephen Devassy on the keyboard and a diverse audience cheering for her. "Resonating the spirit of Republic Day, the Ambassador has invited other diplomats, and artists to celebrate the true joy of the Republic Day. But also to share the message to everyone, that we all stand in unity, in humanity. Music is what connects everybody. And it's a real language of love and connectivity. There are no borders in music," Sanjaanaa Jon, curator of the event shared.

Actor and producer Jackky Bhagnani, who flew in from Mumbai for the event, noted India's cultural ties to Romania and said, "Apart from being an actor all the films we produced over the last four decades, we've shot extensively in Europe because you have these dream sequences in the songs there. I've shot myself a lot and I feel a very romantic vibe when we have some amazing locations. I believe meeting her Excellency today is a great way to connect for future collaborations."




'Cultural ties equally important'

The evening unfolded with a shared joy in the multicultural atmosphere. Romanian ambassador Sena Latif said, "As important as the trade relations are, what's also important is the cultural relationship. Music is probably one of the strongest languages we all share, despite the hundreds of languages we speak in both India and Europe. We can share our passions, our sorrows, our happiness through music. Showing this partnership is a good model for other countries to come together."

Dressed in a bright Banarasi saree, the ambassador stated the effort that goes into wearing it. "I have such admiration for Indian women now, even more than before. I always thought they were beautiful, strong and resilient, but now after wearing saree for the first time since I came one year ago, I respect them more. It is a really beautiful dress and makes you feel like a queen! (laughs)"

In a display of solidarity, she asked for a moment’s silence for the late Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar who passed away earlier this week.

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