AIAI and WTC Mumbai Host Diplomatic Evening Celebrating Diwali – Festival of Light and Unity
Mumbai, October 14, 2025 – Featuring traditional Diwali decor, cultural performances, and networking among representatives of the diplomatic corps, government officials, and business leaders, All India Association of Industries (AIAI) in collaboration with the World Trade Center Mumbai (WTC Mumbai), hosted a vibrant and dignified Diplomatic Diwali Celebration at the WTC Mumbai, bringing together diplomats and dignitaries from more than 40 countries to celebrate the spirit of Diwali offering a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and deeper global engagement.
Mrs. Mohini Kalantri felicitating Mrs. Amruta Fadnavis
The event was graced by Mrs. Amruta Fadnavis, who served as the Chief Guest and spoke about the universal and joyous spirit of Diwali. In her remarks, she described Diwali as ‘the festival of lights, the festival that transcends boundaries, the festival that unifies with a strong message’. The festival brings families and communities together in the spirit of celebration. In the same manner, this event also brings diplomatic community in the spirit of festival, forging closer ties and relations for the overall growth. Conveying her warm wishes for Diwali to everyone present at the celebration, she captivated the audience with a beautiful rendition of a song, further amplifying the festive spirit and adding a melodious touch to the evening. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of supporting social causes and expressed her commitment to making meaningful contributions to society.
Shri Jayakumar Rawal, Honourable Minister of Protocol and Marketing, Government of Maharashtra, and Mrs. Subhadra Kumari Rawal graced the occasion as the Guests of Honour, sharing their presence and offering insightful reflections on the cultural significance of Diwali. Shri Jayakumar Rawal emphasized that Indian traditions, particularly as embodied in Diwali, are rooted in inclusivity and unity. The festival of Diwali reminds us to shed the darkness by lighting lamps. ‘They unite without boundaries, illuminate without bias, and invite everyone to be part of the celebration, emphasizing the festival’s powerful message of togetherness in diversity.’ The presence of diplomatic community in the august gathering further strengthens the engagement which the state enjoys for shared prosperity and economic growth. Calling upon the members of diplomatic community in the audience, he emphasised the need for sustained engagement to iron out wrinkles in relations and enhance and promote trade facet of bilateral relations.
Sharing her heartfelt reflections on the significance of Diwali, Mrs. Subhadra Kumari Rawal emphasized its role as a festival of joy, hope, and togetherness that brings people closer and inspires harmony.
Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President of AIAI and Chairman, WTC Mumbai, emphasized that Diwali is more than just a festival of lights; it embodies India’s rich cultural heritage and represents universal values of peace and inclusive progress. He noted that events like this play a vital role in promoting international goodwill and fostering global cooperation. He thanked the guests and the diplomatic dignitaries present on the evening, reiterating WTC Mumbai’s commitment to fostering meaningful business and commercial ties across the world. With the backdrop of cultural singing and a traditional festive setup, the distinguished gathering was graced by several Consul Generals and their families, beautifully reflecting how Diwali transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, uniting people worldwide in the auspicious spirit of hope, renewal, and goodwill.
In the picture, from L-R: Ms. Priya Pansare, Director, Trade and Investment Promotion, WTC Mumbai, and Ms. Sangeeta Jain, Sr. Director AIAI, felicitating Shri Jayakumar Rawal, Honourable Minister of Protocol and Marketing, Government of Maharashtra