Delhi Assembly hosts ‘Holi Milan’with diplomats, cultural showcase

The Delhi Legislative Assembly hosted a grand Holi Milan celebration on Tuesday, bringing together diplomats from over 30 countries, political leaders and cultural practitioners in a vibrant display of the nation’s democratic spirit and civilisational heritage.

Addressing the gathering, Speaker Vijender Gupta emphasised Holi was "not merely a festival of colours, but a celebration of the country's civilisational strength, democratic spirit and the triumph of truth and righteousness."

Gupta also highlighted that Delhi, as the capital of the world’s largest democracy, warmly welcomes the global community through both diplomatic engagement and shared cultural celebrations.

The event, held at the Assembly complex, drew a distinguished audience including members of the diplomatic corps, political leaders, and public representatives, marking a rare convergence of diplomacy, culture, and democratic fellowship.

Notable attendees included Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra, Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva, former MP Ramesh Bidhuri, and several Members of the Legislative Assembly, along with other eminent dignitaries.

Diplomatic representation included High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and senior diplomats from across the globe. Among the distinguished attendees were HE Pradeepa Mahishini Colonne of Sri Lanka, HE Xu Feihong, HE Shankar Prasad Sharma, HE Sheilabai Bappoo GOSK, Oday Hatim Mohammed, Chargé d’Affaires of Iraq and HE Anil Sooklal, among others.

In total, representatives from 31 countries, including Russia, Chile, Sudan, Venezuela, Bangladesh, and Vietnam, participated in the celebrations, underscoring India’s growing diplomatic engagement and enduring international partnerships.

The cultural segment featured a curated 90-minute presentation, showcasing India’s artistic diversity. The programme included a graceful Kathak recital, a traditional puppet performance, and a striking Mallakhamb demonstration from Madhya Pradesh, along with folk dances from various states. These performances created an atmosphere of elegance, vitality, and festive warmth.