A scene during the event
The Rajasthan Association of Ghana (RAGGHANA) has marked its annual festival aimed at promoting the cultural heritage of Rajasthan’s in Ghana.
The event, dubbed, ‘Rangeelo Holimahotsav 2022’ held in Accra seeks to foster unity among individuals, business groups and to help impact the lives of people in rural and urban communities in India.
Second Secretary and Head of Chancery at the High Commission of India, Sanjay Asthana said though the festival was not celebrated in the last two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s festival created the opportunity for members of the association to socialise and discuss matters of mutual interest.
He said, “Apart from displaying the rich cultural values and traditions of Indians, especially Rajasthan’s, there are economic benefits for members as well. We are all aware COVID-19 affected businesses but we know businesses will thrive soon.”
One of the organisers of the event, Gopal C. Vasu, said the annual event will also provide an opportunity for both Ghanaian and Indian children to learn the cultural heritage and traditions of Rajasthan’s in India.
According to him, apart from enhancing cross-cultural experiences amongst Ghana and India, it has also boosted investment in Ghana as the number of Indians in Ghana continue to increase.
“In 1969, there were only 200 Indians but today there are about 17,000 Indians. This obviously indicates the number of Indians in Ghana, most of whom are doing one form of business or the other,” he added.
Mr. Vasu, who is also the Managing Director of M&G Pharmaceuticals, said Ghana is one of the best investment destinations in the sub-region considering the economic opportunities and enormous human resources the country is endowed with.
The secretary of the association, Nikkesh Neel, on his part lauded the effort of the High Commission of India and the Government of Ghana for their continuous support for the Indian community in Ghana.
The ceremony, which brought together officials of the India High Commission, businessmen, and Indians resident in Ghana, was characterised with lots of Rajasthani’s dance and culture display.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah