The High Commission of Jamaica in India hosted a grand reception to mark the island nation’s 63rd Independence Anniversary at the Andaz Hotel, Aerocity. With the theme “Be Proud, Be Bold, in the Black, Green and Gold,” the evening brought together over 900 dignitaries, diplomats, government officials, business leaders, and friends of Jamaica for a spirited celebration of freedom, culture, and enduring friendship with India.
Among the distinguished guests was Honourable Smt Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, who was warmly welcomed by Jamaica’s High Commissioner, H.E. Mr. Jason Keats Hall. Noting her attire, he remarked with charm, “Your choice of colour is perfect: you are wearing the gold of Jamaica!
The evening struck a joyous note as internationally acclaimed reggae artiste Tessellated enthralled the audience with his signature melodies. Adding a unique twist, the High Commissioner himself joined the performance on stage—an unexpected but memorable gesture that set the crowd swaying to the rhythms of Jamaica.
Celebrating “Emancipendence”
High Commissioner Hall used the occasion to reflect on what he called “Emancipendence”—a merging of emancipation and independence. He explained that August is a month of profound significance for Jamaicans.
“On August 1st, we commemorated Emancipation Day—191 years since the abolition of slavery. Our forefathers resisted at immense sacrifice, playing a pivotal role in the anti-slavery movement. Tonight, we salute their courage and their fight for freedom,” he said.
Just days later, on August 6th, Jamaica marked 63 years of independence after centuries of colonial rule. “When we first raised the black, green, and gold, it was not just a flag, but a symbol of our hard-won freedom. Incidentally, Jamaica’s flag is the only one in the world without red, white, or blue—a small but significant reminder of our uniqueness.”
He also noted the historic ties with India, recalling that diplomatic relations were established less than a week after Jamaica’s independence in 1962. “On August 12th, we celebrate 63 years of strong, cordial, and ever-strengthening diplomatic relations with India. And on August 15th, we proudly celebrate alongside you—India’s 79th Independence Anniversary.”
A Nation Punching Above Its Weight
In his wide-ranging speech, the High Commissioner highlighted Jamaica’s remarkable achievements across multiple sectors since independence.
On the economy, he said: “Jamaica is now recognised as a model for fiscal discipline. We have reduced our debt-to-GDP ratio from 147% to 69%, achieved 33 consecutive quarters of growth, maintained stability in our exchange rate, improved foreign reserves, and reduced unemployment and inflation to record lows.”
Tourism and logistics remain key drivers of growth. With over 4.3 million visitors annually and 15,000 new hotel rooms planned, Jamaica is the leading tourist destination in the Caribbean. Strategically located at global shipping crossroads, the country is poised to become the “fourth node” in the global logistics network—an area where, he stressed, India’s collaboration would be vital.
Sport, too, remains a cornerstone of Jamaica’s global identity. “We continue to dominate sprinting, amassing over one-third of total world medals and holding numerous records. Off the track, we are excelling in football, cricket, swimming, rugby, basketball, gymnastics, and even winter sports like bobsleigh. No snow? No problem!”
On culture, he proudly declared: “Jamaica has gifted the world over 14 music genres—from ska to dancehall—with reggae standing apart as a global social movement. Reggae gives voice to the voiceless, hope to the hopeless.”
Shared Heritage with India
The High Commissioner devoted a significant portion of his speech to celebrating Jamaica’s deep cultural and historical bonds with India. This year also marks 180 years since the arrival of Indian indentured labourers in Jamaica, whose legacy is still vibrant today.
“Their resilience and contributions have indelibly shaped Jamaican culture—our food, music, religion, and even our national dress,” he said.
Wearing a jacket fashioned in the bold Madras check, known in Jamaica as a bandana, High Commissioner Hall noted, “Tonight, I wear it proudly as a symbol of the intertwined heritage of India and Jamaica.”
He also highlighted recent milestones, including former President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to Jamaica in 2022, the historic visit of Prime Minister Andrew Holness to India earlier this year, and the naming of Jamaica Marg in Delhi’s Vasant Vihar. “As I often say when people ask me how I am doing here: I am making inroads,” he added with a smile.
A Celebration of Friendship
The evening offered more than speeches and music—it was an immersive Jamaican experience, complete with culinary delights, cultural showcases, and warm friendships. “This evening’s celebration has been carefully curated to engage all your senses—a taste, a sound, a touch of Jamaica. For those who know Jamaica, I hope it stirs nostalgia. For those yet to visit, I hope it sparks a compelling desire to come,” the High Commissioner told the gathering.
Extending gratitude to sponsors, partners, and his team, he closed on a note of optimism: “Jamaica is proud of our past, confident in our present, and optimistic about our shared future with India.”
With his final words, he drew applause and smiles across the hall: “Jai Hind. Jai Jamaica. One Love.”
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