The 100th anniversary of Turkey’s Republic Day was a momentous occasion celebrated with great enthusiasm and pride.
By Mewati
Turkiye’s consulate in Mumbai marked a momentous occasion in Turkey’s history – the 100th anniversary of its Republic Day. The anniversary celebration was held at the Crystal Room of Taj Mahal Palace Hotel with much enthusiasm. It may be noted that on 29th October, a century ago, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the visionary founder of modern Turkey, officially declared the nation a republic.
The celebrations were not confined to Turkish soil alone but beyond its borders, the excitement of the occasion was palpable, particularly in Mumbai. The Consulate of the Republic of Turkey in Mumbai enthusiastically joined in the celebrations by hosting a special event. This gathering was an opportunity to reinforce the strong diplomatic ties between Turkey and India and to celebrate the enduring relationship that has grown over several decades.
The festivities kicked off with the National Anthem of India and Turkiye. Thereafter, a moving speech by the 12th President of Turkey His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to Turkish citizens around the world. His words underlined the significance of this day, not just for those within Turkey’s borders but also for those living abroad. This global recognition of Republic Day’s importance echoed the unity and shared identity that stretches across continents. He emphasised that it is a celebration of the shared identity and unity that transcends national boundaries.
Subsequently, Consul General of Turkiye in Mumbai His Excellency Cüneyt Yavuzcan and Manisha Patankar – Mhaiskar, Additional Chief Secretary and Chief Protocol officer of Government of Maharashtra, took the stage to deliver their remarks. Their speeches underscored the historical connection between Turkey and India, a relationship that has endured the test of time and been strengthened by shared values and aspirations.
Turkiye’s President H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivering his speech on television. Photo Mewati Sitaram
H.E. Cuneyt Yavuzcan’s speech highlighted the unique bond between Turkey and India, tracing it back through a long history of cooperation and mutual respect. His words were filled with gratitude and conveyed a profound sense of unity.
Manisha Patankar – Mhaiskar, in her speech, expressed her hope for deeper collaboration and enhanced unity between both countries. Her optimism was an acknowledgment of the growing international influence and cooperation that Republic Day has come to symbolize. She also praised the delicacies of Turkiye which are globally popular.
The Turkiye’s celebrations in Mumbai, served as a testament to the global reach of Republic Day. The event was a platform for Turkish and Indian dignitaries to come together and reaffirm the strong diplomatic and historical ties between the two nations. It was a reflection of the global recognition of Turkey’s historical significance and the influence it wields on the international stage.
The celebration event was attended by who’s who of Mumbai, Diplomats of various countries and journalists. The diplomats who attended the event included H.E. Sven Ostberg CG of Sweden, H.E. Aleksander Danda CG of Poland, H.E. Andrea Kuhn CG of South Africa, H.E. Sami Bouakaze Deputy Head of French Mission, H.E. Wang Awei Deputy Head of China Consulate and consul of the Russian embassy to name a few. The attendees at the event appeared to have a wonderful time savouring a thoughtfully designed menu that delighted their palates.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
