Indian Diplomat’s Unique Gesture, Devyani Khobragade Dresses As 'Khmer Apsara' For Cambodian New Year

The Indian Embassy in Cambodia shared images of India's ambassador Devyani Khobrogade dressed in traditional Cambodian attire, portraying an 'Apsara', to convey her wishes to Cambodians on the occasion of Khmer New Year. In the photo shoot, the diplomat Devyani Khobrogade donned the traditional Cambodian outfit, known as a 'Khmer Apsara', along with traditional golden jewelry and a headgear, paired with a traditional Khmer sampot, a type of wrap-around skirt.

Khmer New Year, known as 'Chaul Chnam Thmey' in Khmer, marks the traditional solar new year in Cambodia, usually celebrated over three days. Falling on either April 13 or April 14, it marks the end of the harvest season before the onset of the rainy season and is a significant cultural event in Cambodia.

Ambassador Devyani Khobragade has a deep admiration for Khmer culture and tradition. Embracing the spirit of Khmer New Year, she elegantly dressed as a Khmer Apsara, embodying the rich bond of our civilizations. Wishing all our 🇰🇭 friends a joyous Khmer New Year celebration pic.twitter.com/5SfQ42g5ln

— India in Cambodia (@indembcam) April 13, 2024

Who Is Indian Ambassador Devyani Khobragade?

Devyani Khobragade, a seasoned Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, took part in this cultural gesture to mark the festivities of the Khmer New Year. In her nearly 24-year career, Khobragade has served in various capacities at Indian missions in Berlin, Islamabad, Rome, and New York.

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Her diplomatic tenure in New York attracted significant media attention due to legal controversies surrounding her arrest on charges of visa fraud and allegations related to the treatment of her domestic help.

Khobragade was also embroiled in controversy regarding the treatment of her domestic help in the US, which resulted in legal proceedings. However, the charges against her were dismissed by a US court citing diplomatic immunity.

Her diplomatic saga strained relations between India and the US, with both countries taking retaliatory measures against each other's diplomats.

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Despite the controversies, Khobragade has continued her diplomatic career, currently serving as India's ambassador to Cambodia, where she recently garnered attention for her unique celebration of Khmer New Year by dressing as a 'Khmer Apsara'.