Indian Cultural Society Jeddah and Bazm-e-Osmania, two of the oldest NRI associations in Jeddah, organized a farewell party for Mohammed Raghib Qureshi, head of chancery, consul for education and observer of International Indian Schools in the Western Region. The associations also welcomed the new consul consular at the Indian Consulate General in Jeddah, Anand Kumar. Arif Quraishi, president of ICSJ and Bazm, welcomed the two diplomats and other guests. He said, ‘Our country is a great country in which people of different religions and languages live in perfect harmony. We have not forgotten our country, its culture, even living miles away from it." He said the group has been celebrating India's Independent and Republic Days since 1976. "This is our patriotism and love for our country," he said. Quraishi expressed appreciation for the services Raghib Qureshi, especially for the Hajis and the Indian schools. Dr. DIlshad Shamsi, patron of ICSJ, talked about the group's services that includes organizing yearly national day functions and the distribution of old textbooks for needy schoolchildren. He appreciated the services of Raghib Qureshi. Barkat Ali, general manager of State Bank of India, Jeddah, praised Raghib Qureshi, saying "Qureshi's experience and talent has helped in the success of the India schools." Consul Anand Kumar said, "I will closely work with the Indian community and solve their problems. It is our foremost duty to help and solve the issues of all Indians here. My door is open for all Indians." "I am impressed by the patriotism of Arif Quraishi and his team, given the fact that they have been regularly celebrating India's national days since 40 years in Jeddah," Kumar said. Raghib Qureshi said,"I have known Arif Quraishi since many years and I am familiar with his sense of patriotism for his country. I have attended his Independence and Republic Day functions which have been very successful and highly appreciated by the community." "Quraishi and his team collect thousands of old textbooks every year and distribute them among the needy students. This is a praiseworthy service," he said. Raghib Qureshi said "whatever I did for the community and Indian schools was my duty and I did only that which was beneficial for the Indian community." ICSJ and Bazm presented a memento to Mohammed Raghib Qureshi in recognition of his services. Mohammed Raghib Qureshi on his behalf presented a ‘best service award' to ISCJ president and his team for their yearly celebrations of India's Independence and Republic Days. A memorable cultural program by Jimmy Al-Waheedy, Faris Al-Waheedy, Vijay Kumar, Yousuf and Altaf was held. Arif Masood Siddiqui proposed the vote of thanks.
