India’s Ambassador Highlights Indonesia’s Mudik Tradition at Ramadan Gathering
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JAKARTA, investortrust.id – India’s diplomatic mission in Indonesia and the India Indonesia Chamber of Commerce have hosted a Ramadan iftar gathering in Jakarta to celebrate cultural unity and strengthen bilateral economic ties. During the event, India's top envoy to Indonesia lauded the nation's unique traditions, especially the homecoming phenomenon known as mudik, which marks the Eid season.
Held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Le Meridien Hotel, the event titled “Iftar: An Evening of Unity & Reflection Featuring Millet Based Cuisines” brought together business leaders, diplomats, and members of the Indian-Indonesian community. Indian Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty congratulated Muslims in Indonesia observing Ramadan and recognized Idulfitri as a major festival celebrated vibrantly in both India and Indonesia.
“Many of us are involved in celebrating Idulfitri. It is a joyful sight. I hope everyone finds happiness during the festival,” Sandeep said in his opening remarks.
The ambassador noted that while both countries share the celebration of Ramadan and Idulfitri, each has distinct ways of commemorating the holy month. He expressed admiration for Indonesia’s annual mudik tradition, in which millions travel from urban centers to their hometowns to reunite with family.
“It’s remarkable how seamlessly this large-scale movement is managed. It’s a massive logistical challenge, and I think both the government and people handle it exceptionally well,” he said.
The gathering also spotlighted the India Indonesia Chamber of Commerce, or IndCham, a platform established in 1977 to connect Indian and Indonesian business communities. Under a renewed identity featuring a lotus symbol that reflects growth and progress, IndCham has sharpened its focus on enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and cross-border networking.
“More Indian companies and startups are now present here. Our ties have evolved, and we revamped IndCham last year to help bring our nations closer,” Sandeep explained. “At the embassy, we work closely with IndCham because such partnerships are essential to support our shared goals.”
In December 2024, as part of India’s efforts to deepen economic cooperation with Indonesia, Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty announced the appointment of Indonesian business leader Anindya Bakrie as the new head of IndCham. The move comes in preparation for President Prabowo Subianto’s scheduled visit to India in January 2025.
Following his appointment, Anindya said at the time, “This isn’t just about large corporations—it’s about delivering benefits to broader communities in both nations,” referring to the goals of the renewed partnership.