As India, the world’s largest democracy celebrated its 77th Republic Day on 26th Jan 2026 across the country, the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), the world’s biggest diamond hub, too celebrated the occasion on a grand scale.
The Republic Day function, held on the premises of Bharat Diamond Bourse was attended by a number of dignitaries, including Senior Government officials, Consular officials from Israel, Finland, UK, USA and Japan and others.
Among those present were Shri Deependra Singh Kuswah, IAS, Development Commissioner (Industries), Government of Maharashtra, H.E. Mr.Yaniv Revach – Consul General of Israel in Mumbai, H.E. Mr. Erik af Hällström – Consul General of Finland in Mumbai, H.E. Mr. Jamie Scattergood – Deputy Head of Mission of UK, Western India, Mr. Kevin Dougherty – Regional Security Officer of USA in Mumbai, Mr. Hideyuki Mihara – Researcher and Adviser/Economics Wing of Japan Consulate in Mumbai, and others.
The function was also attended by many members of the industry and BDB staff. In addition, children from the Bandra Hindu Association High School were also present in large numbers. Among the highlights were an impressive march past parade, a stirring performance of patriotic songs by the BDB Brass Band, and a breath-taking power demonstration by the Fire and Security teams.
Anoop Mehta, President of BDB, welcomed the guests and delivered the opening address. “The 77th Republic Day of India is a special day because this year the country is also celebrating the 150th anniversary of our national song Vande Mataram, that united the whole country behind the freedom movement,” he said.
He also praised the staff who help run and maintain the bourse complex and said it was heartening to see the increasing involvement of so many in activities at the parade.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Deependra Singh Kushwah, noted with pride that India is the fastest growing economy in the world, and by 2027, is expected to become the 3rd largest global economy as well. “Our growth is powered by leaders like you who take risks to create employment, and contribute to national prosperity. Business associations like BDB also play a vital role by encouraging best practices and supporting sustainable development in the country,” he said.
“Organisations like BDB which are committed to larger social responsibility beyond profits and encourage ethical conduct, compliance, transparency, and social responsibility are also contributing to nation building,” Shri Kuswah added.
H.E. Mr.Yaniv Revach, said, “I want to highlight the strong bonds between India and Israel, which are built on trust and a shared commitment in the fight against terrorism. The foundations for this cooperation were laid by the diamond industry many years ago, built on trust, stone by stone!”
He added that he was proud that Israel’s expertise in technology and high standards had played a role in India’s becoming the undisputed leader of the diamond industry, and that the country-to-country bond which began in the diamond sector, has now encompassed other sectors as well.
H.E. Mr. Erik af Hällström – Consul General of Finland in Mumbai, said that the two countries have built close relations and a partnership around digitalisation and sustainability ventures. Applauding the diamond industry, he added, “I am confident that with the aid of huge industries like the diamond sector, India will soon become a US$ 5 trillion economy, and continue to strengthen itself with the goal of building a Viksit Bharat. I am certain that BDB will play an important role in this process.”
H.E. Mr. Jamie Scattergood – Deputy Head of Mission of UK, Western India, said, “UK and India have a shared history and the recent FTA between the countries includes a huge commitment to boost trade in the diamond and jewellery sector. This is expected to triple to US$ 7 bn in the near future.”
Congratulating the BDB for running the massive complex which has a massive 45,000 people in its premises daily, he ended with a heartfelt “Dhanyavaad to Incredible India”.
In a special gesture, BDB felicitated the talented young Indian women’s cricketer, 13-year-old Anisha Rout, daughter of Prabhat Rout from BDB’s Engineering Services. Anisha has shown extraordinary dedication, earning a place to represent Mumbai in the Under-15 and Under-19 Women’s Cricket teams. “BDB has been supporting such future champions and will continue to support the endeavours of similar achievers whole heartedly,” said Mehul Shah, Vice-President of BDB.
The concluding Vote of Thanks was delivered by Mehul Shah, who expressed his gratitude to all the guests and staff members for being present on this momentous occasion. “For BDB, CSR and social responsibility is a priority, and come before profit and commercial benefits. BDB is the most secure place on earth with 100% lost & found recovery rate thanks to the integrity of all members, staff of BDB and our finest security system. BDB believes in the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. We welcome friends from across the world and also reach out to different sections of society. Within the complex, the staff and members are One Family.”