Saudi Gazette report JEDDAH/RIYADH/DAMMAM – Indian expatriates celebrated the 63rd Republic Day of India with great pomp and show. In Riyadh, Indian Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao hoisted the national flag at the Indian Embassy and in Jeddah Consul General Faiz Ahmad Kidwai unfurled the tricolor. They read out excerpts from the address to the nation by Indian President Pratibha D. Patil. Students of the International Indian School Jeddah presented a colorful parade on the occasion. National Anthem was sung by the school choir. Chief Guest Faiz Ahmad Kidwai released pigeons to mark the occasion. The school contingents from both boys and girls sections marched past the chief guest. The most remarkable event of the day was the felicitation of the two outstanding academic achievers of the School: Wardah Mohammed Osman and Adheela Abdul Raheem, the first and the third CBSE Gulf Toppers of 2011. Their parents received the awards on their behalf. A dazzling ribbon display was presented by 240 students of I & II Girls Section and the students of I & II Boys Section entertained the spectators with a spectacular Gypsy drill display. The students of III-V Girls Section presented floats of the Parliament House and model of the first document of the Constitution of India. A stunning skate performance and a daring karate display by the students of VI-VIII Boys Section enthralled the audience. The folk dances presented by the students of III-V Boys Section depicted unity and the cultural diversity of India. Those who attended the colorful function included Member Higher Board Dr. M.S. Karimuddin, Chairman of the Managing Committee Dr. Mohammed Khursheed Akhtar, members of the Managing Committee, staff and students of IISJ. At International Indian School Dammam, John Thomas, chairman of the management committee, unfurled the tricolor. Dr. E.K. Muhammed Shaffe, Principal; Lt. Col J A Rocque, R K Alamgir Islam, Mehanas Fareed and various section heads accompanied the chief guest to receive the Guard of Honor. Students from various classes performed aerobics and drills.
