From across the seven seas

More than 700 international students dressed in their traditional attire for International Students Day

The international student community at the Indian Academy celebrated the International Students' Day in their college recently. More than 700 students from 30 countries came dressed in their traditional attire, specially designed and bought for the programme. 

The theme this year was ‘Harmony’ and there were as many as 30 groups who participated in several programmes. There were songs, dances and a few teams even put together a documentary about their country, its history and culture. They were more than excited to show off their costumes and a slice of their culture in the form of dance and music. The fest also marked the valediction of International Students’ Associations. 

The fest began with a formal inaugural address by the chief guest B R Muthu Kumar, India’s former ambassador to Azerbaijan, Belarus and Latvia. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of education in building a successful career and stressed on the need for international understanding and friendship among the nations through cultural and educational interactions.

In his address, T Somaseker, chairman of the Indian Academy Group of Institutions, said that the presence of international students with diverse cultures and nationalities brightened the campus and its surroundings.  

The audience largely comprised parents and the faculty of the college. They said that the programmes were a peep into the culture of various communities. The rich and colourful performances representing diverse cultural dances and music from Afghanistan, Bhutan, Chad, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Nepal and Uganda were on show. 

Jafer, assistant professor at the Indian Academy and also the coordinator of the International Student’s Association, said the association was formed two years ago. 

“The association is active throughout the year and conducts various programmes. The International Day is the highlight of the festival during which, students showcase the music and dance of their country. There are more than 700 students from 34 countries,” said Jafer. 

There were 18 performances during the celebrations.