Indian expatriates in the Kingdom celebrated the country's 60th Republic Day on Monday with traditional gusto and fervor. Several functions were organized across the Kingdom where national tricolor was unfurled to mark the day. In Jeddah, Sayeed Ahmed Baba, Consul General, unfurled the national flag at the consulate and then the International Indian School. At the school, the event was followed by the national anthem, and some patriotic songs presented by the girl students. Some 400 men, women, and children attended the function. At the consulate, Baba also read out excerpts from a message from President Pratibha Patil who made a fervent appeal to all Indians to “secure the nation against terrorist and fundamentalist elements.” “I call upon fellow citizens and the media to be part of this security network,” she said. Making a reference to the Mumbai attacks, the President stressed the “emergence of a unified and strong voice from India,” which she said “dashed the hopes of terrorists.” Hakim Saleem Farooqui, a Jeddah old-timer, said for the last 16 years he has been coming to the consulate every year on two occasions – Republic Day and Independence Day – without fail. Calling himself a “muhibbe watan” (a patriot), he said “My love for my country brings me here every year.” “In this foreign land, it's my day here,” said Farooqui. In Dammam, Asghar Khan, International Indian School's Managing Committee Chairman, hoisted the Indian national flag and also inspected the guard of honor and took the salute at the march past. A scout group played the national anthem. Dr. E.K. Mohammed Shaffe, IISD Principal and head of the institution, read out a message from Pratibha Patil. It was followed by patriotic songs and colorful dances by schoolchildren. Lt. Col. Ruque, Girls Section Principal in-charge welcomed the audience and Boys Section Principal Anwar Batcha proposed a vote of thanks. Various cultural and patriotic programs were presented by different sections.
