The Indian Association of Rwanda (INAR) on Tuesday celebrated their nation’s Republic Day for the 67th time since India became a Republic.

Speaking at the event, Rajendra Raj, the INAR chairperson, said it always makes Indians worldwide happy and proud to celebrate the national day.

This was the sixth time the day had been marked in Rwanda.

He said, "It is a great pleasure for us to join other Indians worldwide in celebrating and and sharing this day.”He added that they feel at home when they are in Rwanda and lauded the country’s security and commitment to facilitate businesses as well as its cooperation with India.

"We are from India but we feel as though we are Rwandans. The Rwandan government facilitates our businesses by helping us get work permits easily.

‘‘We are happy here and some of us even have Rwandan names, this shows how proud we are to associate with this country,” he added.

S. Roshini, an INAR member who attended the parade of Indian Republic Day, told The New Times that even though they are in Rwanda, they gather at the same place and celebrate one of the two most important events in their country – alongside Indian Independence Day, celebrated on every August 15.

She said, "It is a special day for every Indian. We not only celebrate but also commemorate those who made sacrifices fighting for our country’s independence.”

The day in India is marked by the Delhi Republic Day parade, the largest and important parade that marks the Republic Day celebrations in the country. The parade takes place every year on January 26 at Rajpath, New Delhi.

The parade showcases India’s defence capability, cultural and social heritage.

Over 2400 Indians live in Rwanda.

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