Ukrainians of Delhi joined a celebration of music, food and the spirit of Ukraine on 22 August. Marking 35 years of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence, the event was conceptualised around Volia, a Ukrainian concept meaning freedom and will power, which symbolises the resilience and spirit of Ukraine.
Soprano and violinist sang opera for the audience in the first part of the event
Food and music celebrate UkraineCombining the art of music and food, a special Ukrainian menu for attendees included delicacies like Borscht, a classic beetroot soup, varenyky (Ukrainian dumplings), deruny, a crispy potato pancake, and honey cake with cranberry compote. The musical performances were divided into three acts, a solemn opera accompanied by violin and piano, a traditional Ukrainian set with folk songs, followed by an Indian fusion set including flute, tabla, sitar and electric guitars. The artists introduced the mood of the songs and explained their significance before starting their sets. The second act of the event began with an ode to Ukraine’s traditional two-colour vyshyvanka, red which stands for love and black for sorrow. The singer explained how the two emotions are always present in life simultaneously.
Ukrainian dumplings varenyky (L) and honey cake with cranberry compote (R )
‘Ukraine is still suffering’Addressing the gathering, Embassy of Ukraine’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Artem Nosko said, “Today is a big day, it is a celebration of 35 years of restoration of Ukraine’s independence. For centuries we tried to gain this independence and in 1991 it was restored. And for the last few years we have to defend this freedom, to decide our future. For me, Ukraine starts with my family. When the war started, my wife had to move from Ukraine. My cousin sister’s husband is at war, and she is hoping for peace. We don’t know when but we know that Ukraine will prevail despite everything. This resilience is underlying in our cultural heritage. Today you will hear some Ukrainian, Indian and international music. You will feel the spirit of Ukraine today. However, let’s remember the people of Ukraine are still suffering. This day today is not a traditional national day celebration. We’re not celebrating it on a large scale like what we traditionally do. This is part of wartime diplomacy which is a little different. It’s more conscious.”
Embassy of Ukraine’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Artem Nosko (L), Maryna Akram (R )
‘Hindustaniyon ka saath hume taakat deta hai’Expressing appreciation for India’s support, Maryna Akram, co-founder of the Association of Ukrainians in India shared in Hindi, “Main Ukrainian hoon aur chaubis saal se yahan rehti hoon. Hindustaniyon ka sahara hume taakat deta hai. Hume yakeen hai ki hamara desh phirse azaad hoga. Hum Ukrainian hain, Ukrainian hi rahenge lekin India hamare liye ek dusri maa jaisi bann gayi hai. Hum apna Ukraine kabhi nahi bhoolenge. (I’m Ukrainian and have been living in India for the past 24 years. The support from Indians gives us strength. We strongly believe that our nation will be free again. We are Ukrainians and will always be Ukrainians, but India is like a second motherland. We will never forget our Ukraine.)”
The fusion band brought the evening to a close
The multilevel venue gave a remarkable view of the festivities
