Speech by Ambassador Y. K. Sailas Thangal on the occasion of Indian Tea Festival  

(Shymkent, 20 March 2026)

Excellency Mr Gabit Syzdykbekov, Akim of Shymkent,
MD, Shymkent Plaza Mall,

Mr Sardor Board Member Forum Mall Kazakhstan,

Distinguished tea sommeliers, ladies and gentlemen,

Namaskar! Salemetsiz be! Nauryz kutty bolsyn!

It is a great honour and a profound pleasure to join you in Shymkent on the auspicious occasion of Nauryz—a celebration that marks the renewal of nature, the arrival of spring, and the enduring spirit of friendship. Deeply rooted in centuries-old nomadic traditions, Nauryz stands as a pillar of cultural heritage across Kazakhstan and Central Asia, embodying the values of harmony, unity, and goodwill among diverse communities.

On behalf of the Embassy of India in Astana, I extend warm greetings to the people of Shymkent and the wider region, including our friends in Turkestan.

India and Kazakhstan are bound by a relationship that stretches back through history. The ancient Silk Route, which traversed this land, was far more than a trade network—it was a vibrant conduit for the exchange of ideas, traditions, and human connections. Over centuries, our peoples have enriched one another through shared experiences in culture, philosophy, and commerce.

As we celebrate Nauryz together, we also reaffirm this enduring friendship—one that continues to flourish under the visionary leadership of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is in this spirit that the Embassy of India in Astana is delighted to present the Indian Tea Festival in Shymkent, as part of the Nauryz celebrations. This initiative showcases the richness and diversity of India’s tea heritage, featuring premium varieties from across various regions of India, alongside the vibrant festivities of this season.

In India, tea is not merely a drink—it is an expression of hospitality, warmth, and connection. From the verdant plantations of Assam to the misty slopes of Darjeeling, each cup tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and friendship.

Through this festival, we bring a small yet heartfelt glimpse of India to Shymkent. We hope that as you enjoy these authentic flavours, you also experience the essence of India—its openness, its warmth, and its spirit of togetherness.

May this celebration further strengthen the bonds between our peoples, deepen our cultural ties, and inspire new avenues of cooperation in the years ahead.

I invite you all to enjoy the tea, the companionship, and the vibrant spirit of Nauryz.

Rahmet! Dhanyavad! Thank you!

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