India-Russia relations in good shape: Sibal

Moscow, Aug 15 (UNI) Indian Ambassador to Moscow, Kanwal Sibal unfurled the national flag today on the occasion of the 60th Independence Day at the Embassy premises in the presence of a large number of Indians.

Students from the Indian Kendriya Vidyalaya (Central School) recited patriotic song ''Jhanda uncha rahe hamara'' after the national anthem.

Mr Sibal read out the address to the nation by President Pratibha Patil on the eve of the Independence Day.

Addressing the gathering, he highly praised the members of Indian community in Moscow, for their valuable contribution to India's growth in different fields, including art, culture, business and journalism.

''India-Russia relations are in good shape as the two countries have strategic partnership, which they are continuously developing and strengthening,'' Mr Sibal said.

A gala event of Indian music and dance, dedicated to the 60th anniversary of Independence Day, under the auspices of Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre (JNCC), was held yesterday at Moscow's famous concert hall of Mir Kinotavra.

Mr Sibal and Russian Deputy Cultural Minister Andrei Busygin jointly inaugurated the event by lighting the traditional Indian lamp.

Sitar troupe led by well-known artist from Delhi, Mrs Meera Prasad, Rajasthani folk dance group of Bhutte Khan Mangnihar and Manipuri dancers from the Performing Artistes Centre, Khurai, regaled the audience by their artistic colourful performances.

UNI