Celebration of Christmas at Indian Consulate, New York

The Consulate General of India, New York hosted a reception on the occasion of Christmas at the Consulate on December 20, 2010.

About 150 persons including large number of members from the Christian community from the Tri-State Area, media personalities and members of eclectic associations participated and enjoyed the celebrations. The gaiety and festive ambience, singing of carols prevailed during the evening.

Speaking on the occasion, Amb. Prabhu Dayal, Consul General of India, reflected on the Secular traditions of India and stated that the Indian Consulate paid special attention to celebrations of various religious festivals. He further added that the Consulate’s inclusive approach for all Indians and their well wishers was reciprocated by the various religious and cultural groups in celebrations like  Dussehra, Diwali, Baisakhi, Eid, etc at the Consulate.

Archbishop Frances A. Chullikatt, Permanent Observer of Vatican City at the United Nations spoke about the relevance of Christmas, the inclusive spirit of India which gave equal importance to all religions and cultural traditions. Celebrations at the Consulate were a testimony to the eternal spirit of harmonious co-existence in India. He added that the secular nature of Indian polity guaranteed equal respect for all religious traditions.

The event concluded with a dinner reception.