Press release on the occasion of the Inauguration of Indian Social Club, Sohar on 20^th April, 2010

The Indian Social Club, Sohar was formally launched here at an impressive ceremony at Al Mandoos Hall. The inauguration of the Indian Social Club, Sohar was done by traditional lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest Shri. Anil Wadhwa, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman. The Guests of Honour who graced the occasion were Dr. Sathish Nambiar, Chairman of Indian Social Club, Muscat and Mr. Kiran Asher, Managing Director of Al Ansari Group of Industries representing Shri Kanaksi Khimji, who has agreed to be the Patron of Indian Social Club, Sohar.

In his brief speech to the assembled General Body of the Indian Community of Sohar, the Chairman of Indian Social Club, Sohar Dr Rajiv Tandon detailed the process involved in getting permission to establish the ISC-Sohar. He, on behalf of the Indian Community expressed their deep gratitude to H.M Sultan Qaboos bin Said for his benevolence and generosity towards them. Under his benevolent rule the Indian Community has progressed and prospered.

Dr Tandon also expressed his gratefulness for the love and affection shown by the citizens of the Sultanate of Oman towards the Indian Community.

The Chairman of ISC-Sohar, Dr Rajiv Tandon in his speech also thanked H.E Dr. Sharifa bint Khalfan al Yahiayia the Minister of Social Development, Sultanate of Oman for accepting the request and allowing the formation of the Indian Social Club in Sohar. Thanks were also given to all the officials of the Ministry of Social Development for processing the application.

The event also saw the showcasing of talent of the Indian Community of Sohar. A rainbow of cultural events were presented starting with Patriotic Songs and followed by Rabindra Sangeet. Children entertained the audience by performing Bharat Natyam and Dandiya Ras dance. A fusion dance was also performed on the occasion.

Dr Rajiv Tandon, Chairman Indian Social Club, Sohar introduced the Executive Committee and the members are    

H.E Mr. Anil Wadhwa, the Ambassador of India to Oman spoke about the need for inclusiveness of all members of the Indian Community to take the club forward. He praised the enthusiasm of the Indian Community of Sohar to have collected in such large numbers for the Inaugural ceremony. He mentioned about the growing industrialization of Sohar and that newer Indian companies are likely to set up base here.

Dr Sathish Nambiar, Chairman, Indian Social Club, Muscat also spoke on the occasion. He lauded the effort of all concerned in setting up the Indian Social Club, Sohar and promised to provide all support of ISC-Muscat for the activities of ISC-Sohar.

Mr. Kiran Asher, Managing Director, Al Ansari Group of Industries representing Shri Kanaksi Khimji, Patron of Indian Social Club, Sohar spoke of the need to involve the citizens of the host country in all Indian cultural activities so that they become aware of our culture and we of theirs. He stressed on the need to be united to take the club forward.

Mr. Sunil Sharma, General Secretary, Indian Social Club, Sohar gave the customary vote of thanks.

The aim for the ISC-Sohar is to promote social, cultural and sports activities for its members. The club hopes to be able to attract artistes whether singers, painters, drama troupes etc. who come to Muscat to perform to do the same here in Sohar.

The formation of the Indian Social Club was an event for which the Indian Community here in Sohar has strived for the last few years. The Indian Community is excited at this new development and they hope that the formation of this club will improve the social and cultural void which they felt being so far away from home.

Dr Rajiv Tandon