On January 30, 2026, the Consul General of India in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, kicked off the first Bharat Diwas celebrations at the Britannica International School. This event brought together students, the Indian community, and local friends of India.
Mathur spoke passionately about the significance of Indian culture and values, rooted in a global perspective, as encapsulated in the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—“the world is one family.” He praised the school for introducing a new curriculum that includes Hindi lessons at the primary level and encouraged efforts to strengthen Indian language education under the motto “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” (One India, Great India).
During the event, attendees celebrated Uttar Pradesh Diwas with a vibrant cultural program, which featured enthusiastic participation from students and their families. This celebration highlighted the rich tapestry of Indian culture and fostered community spirit.
In a solemn moment, Mathur honored Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs Day, joining students in singing hymns that pay tribute to his legacy. The school principal and teachers reminded everyone of Gandhi’s enduring messages of truth and nonviolence, which continue to resonate today.
Interestingly, many members of the Indian professional community at the event expressed excitement about India hosting the upcoming Global AI Impact Summit. They noted India’s growing influence in information technology and artificial intelligence, particularly after signing a significant Free Trade Agreement with the European Union.
Recent statistics support this optimism; a 2023 report by the National Association of Software and Service Companies highlighted that India’s IT sector is expected to grow to $350 billion by 2025, driven by advancements in AI and digital services.
Mathur concluded on a hopeful note, wishing that the Bharat Diwas celebrations would inspire students to embrace and share India’s cultural rich heritage more widely.
