ART FOR PEACE: Indo–Rwandan Cultural Night

Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts, New Delhi

organised by the Rwanda High Commission in India & Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi support of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India (Central Bureau of Communication).

The “Art for Peace: Indo–Rwandan Cultural Night” was a remarkable evening of cultural diplomacy and artistic celebration held at the Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts, New Delhi. The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries including Her Excellency Jacqueline Mukangira, High Commissioner of Rwanda to India; His Excellency Mr. Reuben Gauci, Ambassador of Malta to India; and Mr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Asian Academy of Film & Television, along with religious leaders, diplomats, academicians, and members of civil society.

The evening commenced with a prayer performance by Sangeetha S. Nair, invoking peace and spiritual harmony. Rev. Dr. Fr. Roby Kannamchirayil CMI, Director of the Chavara Cultural Centre, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing that art transcends boundaries and fosters unity beyond cultural and national differences.

The Inaugural Address was delivered by H.E. Mr. Reuben Gauci, Ambassador of Malta to India, who highlighted the importance of cultural dialogue in strengthening international friendship and mutual understanding. The event was further honoured by the presence of the Chief Guest, H.E. Ms. Jaqueline Mukangira, High Commissioner of Rwanda to India, who spoke about the shared aspirations of India and Rwanda in promoting peace, resilience, and cultural cooperation through meaningful people-to-people engagement.

The Keynote Address by Mr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Asian Academy of Film & Television, underscored the role of creative industries and artistic collaboration in shaping global peace narratives.

A deeply moving Interreligious Prayer for Peace formed the spiritual core of the evening, reflecting the Chavara Cultural Centre’s enduring commitment to dialogue and unity among faith communities.

The cultural segment featured captivating performances by Rwandan troupes and artistic presentations by the Central Bureau of Communication, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India. Through dance, music, and visual storytelling, the performances beautifully illustrated the theme:

“Art Destroys Ego and Fosters Peace and Harmony.”

With around 300 participants, including diplomats, artists, students, and cultural enthusiasts, the evening stood as a remarkable testimony to how art can unite nations beyond borders, language, and ideology.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to intercultural cooperation and peacebuilding through creative expression. Special appreciation was extended to Sangeetha S. Nair for her valuable support and contribution to the successful organisation of the event.