In a tribute to honour the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, the Indian Government adorned the Qutb Minar with Rwandan flag colors on Sunday night, April 7.
The Qutb Minar, a minaret and "victory tower" nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi, stands on the grounds of Lal Kot, Delhi's oldest fortified city.
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Standing tall with its 399 steps, the Qutb Minar is not only a testament to cultural richness but also a poignant reminder of historical significance.
A press release from Rwanda’s high commission in India conveyed the profound significance of this gesture, stating, "The illumination of the Qutb Minar with Rwandan colors is a heartfelt symbol of solidarity by the Government and People of the Republic of India towards the Government and People of the Republic of Rwanda, on the solemn occasion of the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.”
Furthermore, it emphasized the urgent global need to stand against genocide and egregious human rights violations, while advocating for a culture of peace, tolerance, and unity among nations.
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The ceremony, spanning 45 minutes from 8 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. IST, was attended by government officials, the High Commissioner of Rwanda, media representatives, and friends of Rwanda.
This symbolic illumination of the Qutb Minar in Rwandan colours serves as a poignant testament to the unwavering support extended by the Government and People of the Republic of India to the Republic of Rwanda during this solemn commemoration.
"The cultural resonance of this historic site lends profound significance to the remembrance of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda," as highlighted in the press release.