IndiaFest Deepens Ghana–India Partnership Through Culture, Creativity, and Commerce
The 2025 edition of IndiaFest lit up the Accra Sports Stadium with colour, music, and vibrant cultural displays, marking another milestone in Ghana–India relations. The festival, organized by the Indian community in Ghana, showcased India’s rich heritage, food, and art, while highlighting the growing friendship and economic cooperation between the two nations.
Celebrating Friendship Through Culture
Indian High Commissioner to Ghana, Manish Gupta, described IndiaFest as more than a cultural event — a testament to the shared values and mutual respect that bind the two nations.
“Today, we celebrate Indian arts, culture, and traditions that bring us together as one community,” he said, noting that the festival offered “a glimpse of a mini India” through performances, cuisine, and traditional attire.
He praised the volunteers, Indian community groups, and members of the High Commission who helped organize the event, emphasizing that IndiaFest coincided with Diwali, the Festival of Lights — a symbol of hope and renewal. Mr. Gupta also pointed to the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Ghana as a significant moment that strengthened bilateral ties in trade, culture, and technology.
Minister Lauds Indian Businesses’ Role in Ghana’s Growth
Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Madam Dzifa Gomashie, in her address, applauded the Indian business community for its support in advancing Ghana’s tourism, culture, and hospitality sectors.
She commended Indian-owned restaurants and enterprises for creating jobs and skill-building opportunities for young Ghanaians. “I salute all the Indian restaurants and companies in Ghana. You have provided employment, training, and knowledge to our youth,” she said.
The Minister also expressed appreciation for India’s consistent sponsorship of Ghanaian creatives. “For the past five years, your country has sponsored young Ghanaians to enhance their skills in creativity. We are grateful for your continued investment in our people,” she added.
Shared Culture, Shared Prosperity
Madam Gomashie highlighted the deep cultural influence India has had on Ghanaian society through film, fashion, and food. “Bollywood movies and Indian television series have inspired Ghanaian fashion, textile, and culinary trends, strengthening ties between our peoples and economies,” she observed.
She further recalled that India was among the first nations to establish a diplomatic mission in the Gold Coast before independence, cementing a foundation of friendship and cooperation that continues to thrive today.
Looking Ahead
Both the Minister and the High Commissioner agreed that the future of Ghana–India relations lies in strengthening partnerships across tourism, creative industries, and entrepreneurship. Madam Gomashie reaffirmed her ministry’s readiness to collaborate on initiatives that generate jobs and innovation, while Mr. Gupta assured of India’s continued support for training and cultural development.
As the night unfolded with Bollywood music, traditional Indian dances, and aromatic cuisine, IndiaFest proved to be more than just a celebration — it was a living testament to friendship, opportunity, and the enduring connection between Ghana and India.
