Rendezvous-2025, the international students’ cultural evening, was organised at Jamia Hamdard. The event successfully celebrated the diversity and unity of its global student community. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from international students representing numerous countries, and was graced by the presence of eminent dignitaries including ambassadors, diplomats, and bureaucrats from Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Palestine, Sudan, South Sudan, Nepal, and Yemen.
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The evening commenced with a warm welcome by Mohammad Feizy Amin, Research Scholar at Jamia Hamdard, followed by a soulful recitation from the Holy Quran by Dr F Faridasr, Cultural Counsellor and Head of Iran Cultural House, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which set a spiritual tone for the occasion. Following this a one-minute silence was observed in remembrance of the innocent lives lost in the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Dr Noria Farooqui, Deputy Foreign Students’ Advisor, Jamia Hamdard, conducted a formal felicitation ceremony, extending heartfelt appreciation to the distinguished guests.
In her welcome address of Rendezvous, Prof (Dr) Zeenat Iqbal, Foreign Students’ Advisor, Jamia Hamdard, emphasised the importance of cultural exchange and international solidarity among students.
The cultural performances at Rendezvous opened with a captivating classical Indian music presentation, followed by a vibrant Nepali dance, an evocative Egyptian poetry recital, and an energetic Syrian Dabka performance. Audiences were further enthralled by an Iraqi song, a colourful Uzbek dance, a graceful Tibetan performance, a spirited showcase by Somali students, and a heartfelt Syrian song—each act reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of its country of origin.
A major highlight of the evening was the Cultural Walk, where student representatives showcased their traditional attire and national elements in a dazzling display of heritage and harmony.
The event was honoured by the presence of Dr Devendra Singh Chauhan, IPS, Former Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh, as the Chief Guest.
Abhay K, IFS, Deputy Director General, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), attended as the Guest of Honour.
Sudhir Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Vigilance, Government of NCT of Delhi, and Anil Singh, Vice President, Kajaria Ceramics Limited, were present as Special Guests.
The ceremony was presided over by Prof (Dr) M Afshar Alam, Vice Chancellor, Jamia Hamdard, who lauded the university’s efforts in fostering global camaraderie and cultural dialogue. He reiterated the relevance of the age-old adage of “vasudhaiva kutumbakam” the world is one family, which remains the guiding force at Jamia Hamdard.
To mark the occasion, a group photograph was taken featuring all dignitaries and participants, capturing the spirit of international camaraderie and cultural harmony.
The event was concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr Javed Ahmed, Deputy Foreign Students’ Advisor, followed by the rendition of the National Anthem, marking the end of a truly memorable evening of the day.
Students who turned up in large numbers enjoyed the moment and said such events should be held from time to time on the campus to bring students from across the world on one platform. The event is held on yearly basis and the next one is expected to be organised next year, said university officials.
