By K.N. Wasif
RIYADH – Indian Community Volunteers of Riyadh organized a grand farewell event for Bibhuti Nath Pandey, Second Secretary (CW-II) Embassy of India. He has been transferred to the headquarters of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, New Delhi.
Chief Guest of the evening, Bibhuti Nath Pandey, while addressing the function, praised the social workers of Riyadh and said that they have been a great force behind the successful performance of the community welfare department of the Embassy of India in Riyadh. Pandey said that the Embassy staff fulfills their official duties for which they are paid. But these social workers are doing selfless services to the Indian Diaspora which is commendable. He said he had served half a dozen foreign Indian missions but the sincerity and support of the community that they got in Riyadh was not found elsewhere. Pandey said that he is taking a lot of love and beautiful memories with him.
The Chairman of Steering Committee, Engr. Mohammad Zaigham Khan, in his welcome address gave a detailed insight on the services of Bibhuti Nath Pandey. Pravasi Bharatiya Samaan Awardee Shihab Kottukad appreciated the importance of the welfare department to the community at the Embassy and praised Pandey ji and all the staff associated with the welfare department for their sincere service.
On this occasion, a large number of Indian community members presented shawls, bouquets and gifts to Bibhuti Nath Pandey, which was a reflection of the popularity of the community man, Pandey.
A large number of community leaders paid tributes to Pandey on this occasion. Among them were Ghulam Mohammad Khan, Santosh Shetty, Satish Deepak, Siddique, Niamatullah, P. Sinu, Dr. Ashraf Ali, Dr. Anwar Khursheed, Wasi Haider Rizvi, Abdul Jabbar, Salman Khalid, Mrs. Sara Bakharji, Mohammad Muzammil, Maleesh, Nasir Khursheed and others. Apart from Ahad Siddiqui, diplomats Moin Akhtar and Meena also appreciated the dedicated services of Pandey ji.
A commemorative memento was also presented to Bibhuti Nath Pandey by Indian Community Volunteers on this occasion. Salim Mahi anchored the event. Senior NRI Abdul Ahad Siddiqui presented vote of thanks. Gala dinner was arranged at Al Mas Restaurant for the attendees.
