Audu Kashim Israel, Director of the Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF), has attended Dandiya Nite in Abuja, an event celebrating Indian cultural heritage and promoting friendship and understanding between Nigeria and India.
The event was organised by the India Cultural Association Abuja, the High Commission of India in Nigeria and the Indian Women Empowerment Association.
It brought together members of the Indian community, cultural enthusiasts and distinguished guests for an evening of traditional Indian music, dance, colourful costumes and cultural expression.
Inspired by Dandiya Raas, a traditional Indian folk dance associated with the Navratri festival, the event showcased India’s rich cultural heritage while promoting unity, inclusion and community participation.
The gathering also provided a platform for strengthening people-to-people relations between Nigeria and India through cultural exchange and mutual appreciation.
Israel’s participation underscored KADIFF’s commitment to cultural diplomacy, international collaboration and the promotion of cinema and storytelling as tools for connecting people across national boundaries.
As a platform dedicated to African cinema and storytelling, KADIFF continues to recognise the importance of cultural engagement in fostering creative partnerships, celebrating diversity and building lasting international relationships.
The event further highlighted the contributions of cultural organisations and women-led initiatives to preserving traditions, encouraging inclusion and strengthening community bonds.
Israel commended the organisers for providing a platform to showcase Indian heritage and promote friendship, mutual respect and understanding among people from diverse backgrounds.
He noted that cultural exchange and artistic expression remain important avenues through which nations can celebrate their identities while building bridges of cooperation and lasting friendship.