Enthusiastic participation of a large number of African envoys and mission representatives brought vibrancy and warmth to the festival and turned the Garba circles into a lively arena of cross-cultural celebration.
Sept 29, 2025 I New Delhi / IAT
The sprawling heritage gardens of Sunder Nursery shimmered with lights, music, and laughter from September 26 to 28 as the Global Garba Festival brought together not just dancers and culture enthusiasts, but also an extraordinary gathering of diplomats from across the world. Over three days, the festival turned into a vibrant symbol of cultural diplomacy, where the rhythmic circles of Garba welcomed nations into its fold.
The highlight of this year’s edition was the strong representation from Africa’s diplomatic community in Delhi. Among the distinguished participants were the Ambassador of Chad, the Ambassador of Burundi, the Ambassador of South Africa, the Deputy Chief of Mission of Kenya, and the Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria. They were joined by mission staff and diplomats from Gambia, Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and Nigeria, creating one of the largest African diplomatic turnouts at a cultural event in the capital this year.
The international flavour extended even further, with the Ambassador of Kuwait and diplomats from Sri Lanka, Slovenia, Russia, the United States, and Iran also taking to the festive grounds. The mingling of colourful lehengas, dazzling kurtas, and the elegant attire of foreign dignitaries painted a picture of unity that went beyond dance.
The African Centre of India, which served as the outreach partner of the festival, played a crucial role in building bridges for this unique exchange. By facilitating the participation of a large number of African missions, the Centre underscored its growing role as a platform for cultural dialogue and people-to-people ties between India and Africa.
Each evening, as the dhol beats rose against the majestic Mughal-era backdrop of Sunder Nursery, diplomats and Delhiites alike stepped into the Garba circles—some with practiced grace, others with joyful curiosity. For many guests, the experience was more than just an introduction to an Indian folk tradition; it was an invitation to belong.
“Garba is about community and inclusivity. Watching so many nations dance together under the same rhythm was deeply moving,” said one of the organisers, reflecting on the festival’s larger message.
The Global Garba Festival at Sunder Nursery not only showcased the richness of India’s cultural heritage but also reaffirmed the power of cultural diplomacy—reminding all that sometimes, the best conversations happen on the dance floor.