Expatriate Indians from Gujarat are gearing up for a three-day festival to celebrate their culture.
Gujaratis throughout the world will take part in Vishwa Gujarati Parivar Mahotsav, or the World Gujarati Family Festival, starting January 14 in Ahmedabad in the western Indian state of Gujarat.
Those in the UAE said it was an important time for them as it reinforces the common bond between people from their part of the world. The celebration is also expected to help provide investment opportunities in the state.
According to the government, the goal is to "allow expatriates to connect emotionally with the Gujarati community worldwide and share the glory of achievements".
The event follows the Vibrant Gujarat global investors' meeting, which the government says resulted in financial commitments exceeding Rs660 billion.
Kiran Sangani, Secretary General of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC), said: "I think what the Gujarat government is trying to do is quite good. If I get an incentive to investment I would prefer Gujarat.
"However we also have to see what facilities are given. Unfortunately I wont be able to participate this year as I will be attending the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. It is worth mentioning that the IBPC encourages all the states when such events are held," he said.
Leading Indian Businessman and Social Worker Bharatbhai Shah said that the event will be inaugurated by the Indian prime minister.
"I was one of the panelists when the event was held last year and am looking forward to taking part this year as well. I would like to experience the benefits that we achieved for the state since the last convention was held.
"I personally believe that the festival will bring out the vibrant culture of the state. It is also coinciding with the famous kite flying festival of Gujarat. The concept of intermingling tradition and business is a new concept and it will provide a boost to the tourism of Gujarat following the unfortunate incidents of riots that took place."
Naresh Desai, who works in a Dubai insurance company, said that currently each state in India is trying to woo its population and encourage them to remember their roots.
He said: "I think this a very good sign. We are Indians first and the representation of a state comes later. I have read quite a lot about the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas which the central government is marking.
"Similarly each state is also going ahead in attracting investment. But it is yet to be seen how far they will be able to provide an investment to improve the lives of Indians working abroad."
Connecting citizens emotionally* The three-day Vishwa Gujarati Parivar Mahotsav will start from January 14 in Ahmedabad, India.
* The goal of the festival is to "allow expatriates to connect emotionally with the Gujarati community worldwide and share the glory of achievements".
* Festival to help provide investment opportunities in the state.
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