Paris: India House has been established as part of the ambitions of a long-term partnership between Reliance Foundation and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) aimed at improving the performance of Indian athletes, supporting National Sports Federations and building India’s credentials as a global sporting nation with the aspiration of hosting Olympic Games in the future.
“For the first time, India has a home for our athletes. This is a place where we will cheer and celebrate our Indian athletes,” Nita Ambani says in the video.
“India House showcases crafts from Banaras and Kashmir. There are also beautiful handicrafts and traditional Indian jewellery,” he said.
“It’s all about celebrating and cheering for our traditions, our arts and culture, and our athletes,” he further said in the video.
The video showcases song and dance, technique and tradition. And of course, no celebration in India is complete without Indian food and Bollywood music.
The video shows singer Shaan performing on stage during the launch ceremony of India House. Nita Ambani can also be seen grooving to the tunes along with other guests at India House.
The Olympics began on July 26 and will end on August 11.
A day after the spectacular opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics that grabbed the attention of the entire world, a star-studded opening ceremony was held at India House, attended by IOC officials and administrators as well as some of India’s most famous names.
According to a media release from Reliance Foundation, the inauguration ceremony of India House was a memorable event, which began with Nita Ambani lighting the lamp in a traditional Indian ceremony that brings auspiciousness and goodwill.
Dignitaries present at the opening ceremony included IOC committee member Ser Miang Ng, Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha, Indian Ambassador to France Javed Ashraf, BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) secretary Jay Shah and Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra.
Speaking on the occasion, Nita Ambani said, “Welcome to India House, the first ever Olympic Games in the history of the Olympics. Today we gather to open the doors to a dream at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games – a dream that belongs to 1.4 million Indians. Our shared dream of bringing India to the Olympics and bringing the Olympics to India.” Describing the inaugurated India House as a potential turning point for India, she said, “The time has come now that the flame first lit in Athens should also be lit in our ancient land of India. The day is not far when India will host the Olympic Games. Let this be our collective resolve at the inauguration of India House.”
Speaking on the significance of India House, the IOC member said, “India House is seen as a symbol of India’s Olympic aspirations. We hope it becomes a home away from home for our athletes, a place where we honour them, salute their spirit and celebrate their achievements. India House is not a destination, it is a new beginning for India.”
India House will feature various special events, including daily programmes curated by the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, as well as panel discussions, medal win celebrations, special watch parties and meetings with legendary Indian athletes.
India House is located in the Parc de la Villette in the Park of Nations and will be open to visitors from 11 am to 11 pm local time during the Olympic Games from July 27 to August 11.
