Embassy of India
Bucharest
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PRESS RELEASE
Celebration of the 77th Foundation Day of ICCR on 9th April 2026
The Embassy of India, Bucharest, celebrated the 77th Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) on 9th April 2026 at the Embassy’s premises. The event was attended by over 70 participants, including members of the Indian community, friends of India and Romanian friends.
Ambassador of India, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, delivered special remarks on the occasion of ICCR Foundation Day, highlighting the establishment of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in 1950 and its enduring role as a key pillar of India’s cultural diplomacy. He underscored ICCR’s contribution in fostering mutual understanding, strengthening people-to-people ties, and building lasting cultural and academic partnerships across the world.
The Ambassador noted that through its wide-ranging initiatives, including scholarship programmes, academic exchanges, cultural festivals, and promotion of Indian arts, languages, and traditions, ICCR has played a vital role in connecting India with global communities and nurturing enduring friendships. He also emphasized the continued relevance of ICCR’s vision in promoting dialogue, inclusivity, and shared cultural appreciation in today’s interconnected world.
As part of the celebrations, a short video presentation showcasing ICCR’s key activities, initiatives, and achievements was screened for the audience, offering a comprehensive overview of its impactful work over the decades.
The event was graced by H.E. Mr. Vasile Carare, Mayor of Suceava and Mayor of Milișăuți (Romania), who had earlier visited India under ICCR’s Distinguished Visitors Programme (DVP) from January to March 2026, as the Chief Guest. In his remarks, the Mayor fondly recalled his visit to India in February 2026 and conveyed his deep appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him throughout his stay. He spoke highly of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage, noting the memorable visits to iconic landmarks, as well as his experience of Indian cuisine and traditions.
He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Government of India for the excellent arrangements and extended special thanks to Ms. Nandini Singla, Director General of ICCR, for her support and facilitation. He further commended India’s remarkable development trajectory and acknowledged the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
The programme featured a vibrant Bhangra dance performance by Ms. Anisha Lahore, which vividly showcased the energy and richness of India’s cultural heritage. The lively presentation was well received and added a festive dimension to the event.
The programme also included a dedicated session on yoga and meditation conducted by Ms. Veronica Mathew, highlighting India’s ancient wellness traditions. Organised as a precursor to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026, the session aimed at promoting the benefits of yoga and meditation among members of the Indian diaspora and the Romanian community, encouraging greater awareness and participation.
An Open House session was organized on the sidelines of the event, providing members of the public an opportunity to raise consular queries, seek clarifications, and share their concerns. The interactive session was led by the Ambassador of India, along with the Second Secretary (Consular) and Attaché (Consular), who addressed a wide range of issues and offered guidance on consular services and procedures. The initiative was well received and reflected the Embassy’s continued commitment to outreach, transparency, and responsive engagement with the Indian community.
The event concluded successfully, reflecting the continued importance of ICCR in strengthening cultural engagement and further deepening India–Romania relations.
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Bucharest
9 April 2026
