A Week Of Colours, Culture And Connection: Inside Riyadh’s India Week

When cultures come together! In order to give the Indian people a feel of home away from home, the Ministry of Media with the General Entertainment Authority hosted India Week, a key segment of the Global Harmony Initiative under the Riyadh Season. This second edition of the much talked about event, that started on November 2 at the Al-Suwaidi Park, witnessed a successful closing night on November 10 after showcasing the diverse culture of India via dance, music, art, traditional crafts and food. It also highlighted the cross-cultural understanding with Indian artists like Kanika Kapoor, MC Stan and influencers like Adnan Shaikh, Abraz Khan, Kashika Kapoor among many others performing and interacting with the masses.

Not just the Indian population in Riyadh but the India Week delivered an immersive cultural experience that resonated with thousands of Saudi people who came together to experience the electric energy where Bollywood songs were playing and various kiosks displayed India’s rich kaleidoscope of traditions. From applying henna designs to trying out colourful bangles, it gave the residents and visitors of the Kingdom a chance to explore India without travelling beyond Riyadh.

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The event saw an impressive line-up of performers, with Indian artists bringing the energy of Bollywood, folk traditions, and contemporary music to the outdoor stage. Music lovers were treated to electrifying concerts, high-energy dance acts, and interactive crowd moments that showcased the warmth Indians are known for. Celebrity appearances added star power to the festivities, drawing large crowds eager to witness a slice of India’s entertainment world.

India’s Minister of Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, also visited the India Week at Al Suwaidi Park and highlighted the spirit of harmony and global unity. “Organising such a big event for the people so that they remain connected to their roots and do not feel lonely, considering a large population of Indians live here and to break the monotony of their lives is very admirable. The relationship between the two countries has been growing and will continue to flourish,” said Shekhawat about the significance of this event.

People navigated through a cultural tapestry with stalls that served indian street foods and artisans from various Indian states showcasing their craftsmanship, including Rajasthani lac bangles, Madhubani artwork and intricate Kashmiri handicrafts. Each kiosk offered a story, giving visitors a deeper appreciation of the country’s artistic heritage. A bangle seller, who was actually an IT professional, claimed that this event helped expose the Saudi population more to the Indian culture and made the Indian population nostalgic. She said, “the Saudi people are taking this in a very positive way and are very fascinated by the stalls and things that are symbolic to our culture. They have been super welcoming to us and we also enjoy showing them our roots.”

 

 

 

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A standout highlight was the daily cultural parade that captured India’s ethnic and regional diversity. Audiences cheered as performers in traditional attire danced their way through the walkways, representing Punjab, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and the southern states. The Kantara-inspired Bhoota Kola segment became a crowd favourite, with performers dressed in striking makeup and ceremonial costumes that added a dramatic flair to the evening. Their intense expressions and rhythmic movements transported the audience into the mystical world of coastal Karnataka’s folklore.

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Not just a cultural learning but the management ensured that the Global Harmony initiative gives everyone a memorable experience. Families found ample space to enjoy the shows, and interactive installations offered photo-ready moments that kept social media buzzing throughout the week. The energy was infectious and people of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities danced alongside Indian performers, proving the universal power of art and celebration.

What made India Week particularly memorable was its spirit of inclusivity. Saudis and Indians came together under one sky, sharing moments of joy, music, and cultural pride. India Week at Al-Suwaidi Park was more than a cultural showcase. Through food, performance, and tradition, it demonstrated that when cultures meet with openness, the result is nothing short of extraordinary.