High Commission of India celebrates World Sanskrit Day and Raksha Bandhan 

The High Commission of India, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), the Ayush Information Cell, the Badrinauth Ashram Essequibo, and the Brahmakumaris Guyana, hosted a vibrant celebration of Vishwa Sanskrit Diwas (World Sanskrit Day) and Raksha Bandhan on Saturday in Region Two.

The event, held at the Badrinauth Ashram in Spring Garden, was a colourful showcase of prayers, singing, dancing, and youth performances from Essequibo and Bartica. Highlights included a Bharatnatyam dance by ICCR alumna Dayvishanie Naipaul, a lecture-demonstration on Indian dance by SVCC Director Rudra Jayanta Bhagawati, a talk on Ayurveda by Ms. Anita Nagpal, and yoga sessions. The symbolic tying of Rakhis added a heartfelt touch to the day. Before proceedings began, tassa drummers welcomed guests, and several mandirs were presented with musical instruments to support their cultural programmes.

Among the distinguished attendees were India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Amit Telang, his wife Dr. Deepali Telang, revered Gurus, Pandits of the Ashram, and representatives from the Indian Cultural Centre and Indian Mission. Certificates of achievement were presented to Pandits who successfully completed the Sanskrit examination.

In his feature address, Dr. Telang commended the Ashram for hosting the celebration for a second consecutive year and praised Guyana’s commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage. Speaking on Raksha Bandhan, he described it as more than just tradition—calling it a “bond of commitment, care, and unity” that remains deeply relevant in a modern world where women are increasingly empowered.

On Sanskrit’s importance, Dr. Telang urged that it be cherished as a vital link to India’s identity, rooted in a rich oral tradition. “Heritage cannot be bought—it is inherited,” he said, highlighting the essential role of teachers in passing on this knowledge.

Dr. Telang also lauded Guyanese communities for safeguarding Indian traditions despite challenges, describing Essequibo as a “homecoming” for the High Commission. He pledged ongoing support for cultural preservation and expressed hope that the friendship between India and Guyana will continue to strengthen in the years ahead.

A section of the gathering at the event