New Delhi witnessed a night of extraordinary elegance on Monday, 3rd November 2025, as H.E. Kamel Galal, Ambassador of Egypt to India, and his spouse, Reham Handoussa, hosted a Grand Gala at Egypt House in New Delhi, in celebration of the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
The evening was graced by diplomats, industry leaders, and friends of Egypt, all drawn into a world where history, culture, and diplomacy intertwined seamlessly.
Highlights of the evening included previews of the inauguration ceremony that took place in Cairo by H.E. Abdel Fattah Elsisi, President of the Republic of Egypt, and a performance by renowned Shivani Varma and Egyptian artist Ahmed Atta, symbolizing cultural synergy.
In his address, H.E. Kamel Zayed Galal, Ambassador of Egypt to India, set the tone for the evening, reflecting on the enduring significance of the museum and its treasures. “Today, we are not merely celebrating a building or a collection. We are celebrating history, civilisation, and the timeless spirit of Egypt,” he said, reminding attendees that GEM is much more than a repository of artifacts—it is a beacon of human ingenuity and resilience.
The Grand Egyptian Museum houses over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete collection of Tutankhamun’s tomb, revealed to the world for the first time since its discovery in 1922 by a remarkable young archaeologist. As the Ambassador highlighted, “This museum is not only a repository of artifacts—it is a marvel of technology, preservation, and restoration, ensuring that these treasures endure for generations to come.” The majestic architecture of GEM serves as a symbol of peace and inspiration, a reminder that some legacies, shaped by patience and dedication, remain eternal even as the world continuously evolves.
The Embassy reception mirrored this grandeur with thoughtful and imaginative touches. Guests were treated to AI-generated photographs that transported them to Egypt, creating a playful yet immersive experience. Egyptian mummies served as striking centrepieces, while carefully curated décor, ambient lighting, and themed food offerings evoked the richness of Egypt’s cultural and historical heritage. Elegant goodie bags added a personal touch, allowing attendees to take home a piece of Egypt’s magic.
Reflecting on the dialogue between civilisations, Ambassador Galal said: “The Grand Egyptian Museum also represents a dialogue between civilisations. Today, as we gather here in India, we celebrate the synergy between Egyptian and Indian civilisations—two cultures that have contributed so profoundly to humanity’s shared knowledge, art, and philosophy.” Indeed, the evening was not only a celebration of the past but a living testament to cultural exchange, diplomacy, and shared inspiration.
Adding an element of intrigue, the Ambassador teased a hidden surprise at the close of the evening—a reminder of the enduring magic of discovery that Egypt continues to inspire. Concluding on a note of promise and hope, he said, “Egypt will remain the custodian of its magnificent heritage, a beacon of peace and love, and an anchor of civilisation for generations to come.”
Leave a Reply