By Mewati Sitaram
Russia Day was celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm at Trident Hotel, Mumbai, bringing together a fusion of Indo-Russian culture, diplomacy, and shared heritage. The evening sparkled with lights, music, and mutual admiration as dignitaries, diplomats, media and business leaders from both nations gathered to mark the historic occasion of the Russian Federation’s declaration of sovereignty in 1990.
The event was hosted by the Consul General of the Russian Federation in Mumbai, under the patronage of Consul General Ivan Y. Fetisov. In his welcome address, Fetisov spoke warmly of the enduring ties between the two countries, stating, “India and Russia share a relationship rooted in deep historical ties, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation.” His words drew appreciative applause from the audience.
The celebration was further graced by Ms. Manisha Patankar-Mhaiskar IAS, Chief Protocol Officer of Maharashtra, who acknowledged Russia’s long-standing support to India and lauded its swift condemnation of the recent terror attack on Indian soil. Dr. Neelam Latika Diwakar Gorhe, Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the historic depth and consistency of the Indo-Russian friendship.
Several distinguished dignitaries attended the celebration, adding to the evening’s diplomatic prominence. Among them were Dr. Praveen Singh Pardeshi, IAS (CEO, Mitra), Vijay Kalantri, Chairman of the World Trade Center, Kaustubh Dhavse, Officer on Special Duty to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and Milind Hardas, Protocol Officer, Government of Maharashtra.
The event also saw the presence of numerous diplomats, including Her Excellency Wang Awei, Acting Consul General of China; H.E.Kobi Soshani, Consul General of Israel; H.E.Ahmad Zuwairi Yusoff, Consul General of Malaysia; H.E. Edy Wardoyo, Consul General of Indonesia; H.E. Le Quang Bien, Consul General of Vietnam and H.E.Kemalettin Eruygur, Consul General of Turkiye and many more.
The Russia Day celebration in Mumbai served as a vibrant reminder of the enduring friendship between two great nations—rooted in the past, alive in the present, and full of promise for the future. The venue’s décor beautifully captured this spirit, showcasing a harmonious blend of Russian and Indian elements. The Russian tricolour was elegantly woven with marigold garlands and traditional Indian floral motifs, symbolizing the seamless fusion of cultures and the deep, respectful bond that unites the two countries.
India and Russia continue to enjoy a strong and time-tested relationship built on decades of strategic trust and cooperation. From defence and energy to science and multilateral diplomacy, their partnership spans a wide range of sectors. Close collaboration on global platforms such as the United Nations, BRICS, SCO, and G20 highlights their shared commitment to a balanced and multipolar world order, reinforcing mutual respect and common goals on the international stage.
Beyond geopolitics, the cultural bond between the two nations is equally profound and enduring. From the iconic popularity of Raj Kapoor during the Soviet era to the present-day success of Indian films like Pushpa in Russia, Bollywood has served as a soulful bridge between the peoples of both countries.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
