Paris, France: Nita Ambani, an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, Founder, and Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, unveiled India’s first-ever country house at the Paris Olympics, aptly named India House. This landmark initiative serves as a home for Indian athletes and a symbol of India’s aspirations on the global sporting stage.
India House has been established through the collaborative efforts of the Reliance Foundation and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Their long-term partnership aims to elevate the performance of Indian athletes, support national sports federations, and bolster India’s credentials as a global sporting nation, with the ultimate goal of hosting the Olympic Games in the future.
Additionally, the collaboration with Radico Khaitan, a prominent Indian company, enhances the India House initiative, adding to its cultural and hospitality offerings. Radico Khaitan’s partnership underscores the importance of supporting Indian athletes and showcasing India’s rich heritage to the world.
In a video message, Nita Ambani stated, “For the first time, India has a home for our athletes taking part. This is a place where we are going to cheer for our Indian athletes and celebrate them.” She added, “The crafts from Banaras and Kashmir are showcased at the India House. There are also beautiful handicrafts and traditional Indian jewellery. It’s all about our traditions, our art and culture, and celebrating and cheering for our athletes.”
The video also highlighted a blend of song, dance, technology, and tradition. Notably, the launch ceremony featured a performance by singer Shaan, with Nita Ambani and other guests joining in the celebrations.
Nita Ambani expressed, “Welcome to the first-ever India House in the history of the Olympics. Today we gather here at the Paris Olympic Games 2024 to open the doors to a dream—a dream that belongs to 1.4 billion Indians. A dream to bring India to the Olympics and our shared dream to bring the Olympics to India.” She added, “It is time that the flame, which was first lit in Athens, lights up in our ancient land, India. The day is not far when India will host the Olympic Games. May this be our collective resolve at the opening of the India House.”
Highlighting the significance of India House, Ambani noted, “India House is envisioned as a symbol of India’s Olympic aspirations. We hope it becomes a home away from home for our athletes, a place where we honor them, salute their spirit, and celebrate their achievements. India House is not a destination; it’s a new beginning for India.”
India House will host various exclusive events, including daily programming curated by the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. Activities will feature panel discussions, medal celebrations, exclusive watch parties, and meet-and-greets with legendary Indian athletes.
Situated at the Parc de la Villette in the Park of Nations, India House will be open to visitors from 11 am to 11 pm local time throughout the Olympic Games, from July 27 to August 11.