Early Thursday morning, a vibrant group of about 360 young Indians boarded a specially chartered flight to Russia, eagerly preparing to represent India's rich culture and traditions at the World Youth Festival 2024.
According to Petr Sizov, head of the press service at the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, the passenger list includes 357 people, and more are expected to fly to Sochi soon. The delegation, which includes high school and university students, young scientists, political leaders, educators and entrepreneurs - both male and female - ranges in age from 14 to 30.
Carrying Indian and Russian flags, the delegates gathered at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi and shouted slogans of "Long live Mother India!" before boarding their flight to Sochi.
Rakesh, one of the delegates, highlighted how the "Bharat-360" team had united 360 young delegates from across India to represent the country at the WYF.
In an interview with the TASS news agency, Rakesh articulated that their mission in Sochi is to convey India's message of global unity, based on the ancient Indian philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', a Sanskrit phrase that means 'the world is one family', and to promote harmonious coexistence among global youth.
Some of the young people, traveling to Russia for the first time, are excited to explore new places and opportunities, learn more about Russian culture, and engage in dialogue with delegations from other countries.
At least 360 Indian youth delegates fly to Russia's Sochi for the World Youth Festival 2024
© Photo : Telegram/RusEmbIndia
The event is expected to attract some 20,000 talented young leaders from various fields, including education, science, culture, international cooperation, volunteerism, sports, business and journalism.
The festival's regional program will take place from March 10-17, allowing participants to explore 30 cities across Russia.