Moscow, 1 April 2025 – On 30 March 2025, over 2,000 people gathered at Kuusinen Street 19A, Moscow, for an unforgettable celebration of India’s diverse cultural festivals. The grand event, marking the Indian New Year 2025, was organised by the Indian National Cultural Center “SITA”, the Textile Business Alliance (TBA), and the Sindhi Association of Russia. The celebration encapsulated a convergence of multiple Indian New Year festivals, including Cheti Chand, Ugadi, Navreh, Gudi Padwa, Navratri, and Eid al-Fitr—a true reflection of India’s rich cultural tapestry.

The festivities were inaugurated by the Indian Ambassador to Russia, H.E. Vinay Kumar, who was joined by Mr. Sammy Kotwani, President of SITA.

Ambassador Kumar’s welcome address highlighted the theme of unity in diversity, a core value of India that the event beautifully exemplified. He said, “This grand celebration brings together multiple traditions and festivals, truly reflecting India’s unique spirit of unity. It is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the enduring friendship between India and Russia.”

A Historic Celebration

 This marked the 12th annual Sindhi New Year (Cheti Chand) celebration in Moscow and was by far the largest. “With over 2,000 people in attendance, our Sindhi New Year celebration has grown into one of the largest such gatherings worldwide,” said Mr Kotwani. He also noted that the inclusion of other Indian festivals alongside Cheti Chand served as a unifying celebration of India’s cultural diversity, offering joy not only to the Indian community but also to their Russian friends.

Cultural Program Bridges Traditions

The celebration began with Sindhi rituals associated with Cheti Chand, including devotional bhajans and kirtans (spiritual songs), and the ceremonial Bherano (Behrana Sahib offering) to Jhulelal, the revered Sindhi patron saint. The lively Chej folk dance invited attendees to participate in the festivities. These sacred and joyous rituals offered a deep connection to Sindhi heritage, setting a vibrant tone for the evening.

The cultural program continued with an electrifying concert by the “Shades of Music” ensemble, led by acclaimed singer Lalit Shankar. The performance, blending Sufi melodies, Bollywood hits, and folk tunes, captivated the audience and had everyone dancing and singing along. The seamless fusion of different genres was a fitting representation of India’s unity in diversity. Lalit’s soulful voice and the ensemble’s dynamic performance left the audience spellbound.

A Divine Culinary Experience

 A key highlight of the event was the authentic vegetarian feast that followed the performances. Organised under the expert guidance of Mr. Sammy Kotwani and Mr. Andy Kotwani (SITA’s Vice President), a team of volunteer Sindhi chefs worked tirelessly to prepare a sumptuous banquet that was both a culinary and spiritual experience.

The menu featured classic Sindhi dishes like Sai Bhaji (a green lentil stew), Sindhi Curry (a tangy vegetable curry), Aloo-Baingan (spiced potatoes and eggplant), and an array of traditional sweets such as Suji Halwa (semolina pudding) and Malpuha (sweet fried pancakes). The food, prepared with devotion and authenticity, was offered free of charge as a gesture of goodwill. Guests described the meal as “prasad”, food blessed and shared in the spirit of community, nourishing both the body and soul.

Strengthening Ties Between India and Russia

 The event showcased the shared values of India and Russia, reinforcing the cultural bonds between the two nations. With a focus on inclusivity and celebration of cultural diversity, the Indian New Year 2025 festivities in Moscow were a true testament to the enduring friendship between the Indian and Russian peoples.