Indian carnival Friday to support FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

As the one-year countdown for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is underway and the country is steadily getting into the football fever, Indian community is organising a carnival Friday as a build-up to the mega event and in support and honour of Qatar.“Indian Sports Centre (ISC) in association with other apex bodies under the aegis of the Indian embassy will hold a carnival to express the community’s support for the World Cup, showcasing some of the indigenous cultural, art and sport items of India at Ideal Indian School,” ISC president Dr Mohan Thomas announced Wednesday.The ISC in association with Indian Cultural Centre, Indian Community Benevolent Forum and Indian Business and Professionals Council has lined up a number of activities for the event, taking place from 5pm to 10pm. "The event will be inaugurated by Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal at 7pm. It will be a vibrant and unique event. Qatari dignitaries, ambassadors from various countries, officials from the Indian embassy, and citizens from other countries are expected to grace the occasion. All the Covid-19 related protocols will be strictly followed at the event,” explained Dr Thomas.At a time 1,000 people have been permitted to attend the event, the ISC president said. “There will be vibrant Indian music and dance, showcasing of traditional Indian sports, a football shootout event and attractive prizes, face painting, football jugglers, magic show, laser and fireworks. This will be a one-of-its-kind event, dedicated to the football world and football fans in Qatar, expressing solidarity with our host nation,” he continued.Dr Thomas also said that ISC has lined up a number of events to spread the word about the World Cup and Qatar back in India.“We are in touch with officials in all the states of India. We will present all the details of the World Cup and a complete profile of Qatar in all the states of India right from the south to the north. The campaign will highlight various features of Qatar as well as the places to visit in in the country among others. Then, as we get nearer to the tournament, there will be many more activities,” he remarked. The ISC president also noted that members of the Indian Doctors Club, United Nurses of India - Qatar and Federation of Indian Nurses Qatar will be present at the venue of the carnival to strictly enforce the guidelines of the Ministry of Public Health about Covid-19. “There will also be a facility to provide antigen testing for children who have not been vaccinated. The main entrance to the event venue will be through Gate No 6, and entry for families will be through Gate No 4,” he noted.Dr MP Hassan Kunhi, chairman and CEO of Medtech Corporation; Mibu Jose, CEO of Castle Group; and Syed Shoukath Ali, principal of Ideal Indian School also were present at the press conference. Medtech Corporation, Castle Infrastructure, Family Food Centre and Tea Time are the main sponsors of the event.