Qutub Minar illuminated in Russian Flag colours to mark Russia Day

On the evening of June 12, Delhi's iconic Qutub Minar shone brightly in the colours of the Russian national flag – red, blue, and white. This beautiful light show was not just for decoration. It was a symbol of strong friendship between India and Russia.

This illumination was part of the Russia Day celebrations. Russia Day is one of the most important national holidays in the Russian Federation. It is celebrated every year on June 12 to mark the day when Russia became a sovereign state, separate from the Soviet Union.

The Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, looked stunning under the night sky. The tower glowed in the Russian tricolour, and visitors were amazed by the sight. This gesture showed the deep respect and bond India shares with Russia.

A symbol of strong ties

The lighting of Qutub Minar is not just about lights and colours. It sends a message to the world about how strong the relationship is between India and Russia. The two countries have supported each other for many decades.

India and Russia have shared diplomatic ties since 1947, soon after India gained independence. In 1991, after the Soviet Union was dissolved, India and the newly formed Russian Federation continued their strong bond. Over the years, this relationship has grown even stronger.

From defence and space cooperation to trade, education, and cultural exchange, India and Russia have worked together on many fronts. They are seen as strategic allies who trust and support one another on the global stage.

The Qutub Minar lighting event showed that the people-to-people friendship is as strong as government-level ties. It also reminded everyone of the shared values, history, and mutual respect between the two nations.

To mark the occasion of Russia Day, the Russian Embassy in India hosted a grand event on June 12. This celebration took place in New Delhi and was attended by important personalities from India and other countries.

The chief guest of the evening was Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. He was joined by Members of Parliament, senior government officials, diplomats, military attaches, and representatives from business, science, culture, religion, media, and society.

Also present were members of the Russian community living in India. They gathered to celebrate their national day and to show how strong the bond is between their home country and India.

During the event, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov gave a welcome speech. He spoke about how Russia continues to play a major role in global affairs, and how the country is strengthening its economy and technology.

The Ambassador also said that Russia is fully committed to its long-term partnership with India. He noted that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the two countries becoming strategic partners, which is an important milestone.

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What is Russia Day?

Russia Day is celebrated every year on June 12. It is a national holiday in Russia and holds great importance. It marks the day in 1990 when the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (RSFSR) was adopted.

This declaration was a major step in creating the modern Russian state, which became independent after the Soviet Union collapsed. It stands for democracy, independence, and national pride.

On this day, people in Russia take part in parades, concerts, and patriotic events. Government buildings and famous monuments are lit up in red, blue, and white — the colours of the Russian flag. It is a day to celebrate freedom, progress, and the rich history of Russia.

This year, India joined the celebration in a unique way by lighting up Qutub Minar. This move was appreciated by both Russian citizens in India and people around the world who saw it as a gesture of true friendship.

India and Russia have been close friends and allies for a long time. Even during the Cold War, when much of the world was divided, India and the Soviet Union (now Russia) shared a bond based on trust and cooperation.

The relationship has stood the test of time. From space programs like ISRO and Roscosmos working together, to military equipment and defence agreements, India and Russia have worked as partners in progress.

Russia has also helped India with nuclear energy projects, while India exports pharmaceuticals, tea, and engineering goods to Russia. In recent years, the countries have explored working together in areas like energy, technology, and education.

Apart from politics and business, India and Russia also have strong cultural ties. Russian students learn about Indian dance and yoga, while many Indians study in Russian universities. Film festivals, exhibitions, and music events help bring the people of both nations closer.

India’s gesture was widely appreciated

The decision to light up Qutub Minar in Russian flag colours was seen as a symbolic and diplomatic gesture. Social media was filled with appreciation posts and videos showing the monument glowing in red, blue, and white.

Many Russians living in India thanked the Indian government and people for showing such warmth and respect. Diplomats from other countries also noted how this event shows the power of cultural diplomacy.

For common people in Delhi, the event was a visual delight. Tourists and locals who visited the Qutub complex were surprised to see the monument in new colours. Many took photos and shared them online, helping spread the message of friendship even further.

The lighting of Qutub Minar stood out not just because of the colours but because of what it represented — a solid and deep-rooted friendship that has lasted for over 75 years.

In a time when the world often sees divisions and conflicts, the bond between India and Russia reminds us of the importance of trust, cooperation, and mutual respect between countries.

The lighting of Qutub Minar on Russia Day was more than a beautiful sight — it was a reminder of strong diplomacy, shared history, and the enduring friendship between two great nations.

As both countries continue to work together, events like this help build goodwill, understanding, and hope for a peaceful and united world.