ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
India named country of honor at Shanghai gala
. India was selected as one of four countries invited to showcase its cultural heritage during the gala.
-
1759953093.png)
Staff Reporter - Sat, 30, May 2026
- 05:19 EDT
- 100
Consul General Pratik Mathur represented the country / X
India was the country of honor at the annual 2026 Consular Corps Cultural Charity Gala Dinner in Shanghai, where Consul General Pratik Mathur represented the country at one of the diplomatic corps' major cultural events attended by diplomats and dignitaries from around the world.
The event featured cross-cultural performances and brought together consuls general from more than 70 countries, along with investors and other distinguished guests. India was selected as one of four countries invited to showcase its cultural heritage during the gala.
India's presentation included yoga, described as the country's gift to the world, as well as classical music and dance. A Kuchipudi dance performance was among the featured cultural presentations before the international audience.
Serving the nation with pride and honour
In his acceptance remarks, Mathur emphasized India's philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" and the country's commitment to the Global South. He also encouraged investors and diplomats attending the event to travel to India and explore investment opportunities in the country.
The gala appearance came ahead of preparations for the International Day of Yoga 2026.
Earlier, on May 17, Mathur hosted a special event in Shanghai to felicitate the organizers of the upcoming Yoga and Pilates Summit of China. The summit, previously held in Beijing in 2024, is scheduled to take place in Shanghai from June 16-19, 2026.
The event is expected to attract thousands of yoga practitioners, wellness experts and students from around the world, marking the first time the summit will be held in Shanghai.
Addressing attendees, Mathur highlighted the growing global appeal of yoga and pointed to preparations for the 12th International Day of Yoga. He also outlined activities planned for International Day of Yoga 2026 that will cover the broader AYUSH ecosystem, including Ayurveda, mindfulness and holistic wellness traditions.
Mathur said the strong interest in International Day of Yoga 2026 in Shanghai reflected the city's status as a major international and commercial center and one of the world's largest hubs for yoga studios.
He noted that increasing participation and interest in yoga demonstrated its appeal as a tool for wellness, harmony and peace.
The consul general also encouraged yoga practitioners and wellness enthusiasts to visit India to experience its cultural heritage, traditional wellness systems and historical links with the region.
International Day of Yoga is observed annually on June 21. The United Nations General Assembly declared the day in 2014 following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The observance promotes yoga as a holistic practice for physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login