London:

The iconic Tower Bridge in London on Wednesday became a site of celebration as members of the Indian community gathered to welcome Indian Navy’s frontline frigate, Indian Naval Ship Tabar to the city.

The picturesque event saw the historic bridge serve as a backdrop to the cultural unity and vibrant spirit of the Indian community in the UK, with several people chanting “Bharat Mata ki Jai”.

Historic milestone!

Welcome INS TABAR to the Thames waters in London!

Witnessing the Tower Bridge open for this proud occasion fills our hearts with immense joy and pride.

This is a historic day for India and the United Kingdom.

Bharat Mata ki Jai! #INSTABAR… pic.twitter.com/uLO0O0S1MQ

— British Indians Voice (@BritIndianVoice) August 7, 2024

The INS Tabar’s arrival was met with enthusiastic cheers and a sense of pride among the attendees. The moment was a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of India merging seamlessly with the historic landmarks of London.

A member of the Indian community said, “It is a proudest moment for all the Indians living here. Everyone cheered after seeing the Indian flag and the Indian ship. It was a precious moment for all of us.”

“INS Tabar, a Talwar-Class Frigate of @indiannavy is visiting London from August 7th to 11th. The ship will be berthing alongside HMS Belfast. Do try to catch a glimpse of this magnificent vessel!” the High Commisison of India in London posted on X attaching a picture of the vesssel with ‘Namaste London’ caption.

Welcome to London #INSTabar.

#INSTabar passing under the iconic #TowerBridge. @indiannavy@VDoraiswami@sujitjoyghosh@MEAIndia@IndianDiplomacy@DDNewslive@PIB_Indiahttps://t.co/TNNyzppo94pic.twitter.com/J1v9pZ9JUL

— India in the UK (@HCI_London) August 7, 2024

The event highlighted the strength and solidarity of the Indian community in London, showcasing their collective support for initiatives that bridge cultural gaps and promote mutual understanding.

Another member of the Indian community said, “We are feeling very proud and happy to see an Indian warship entering here and the iconic Tower Bridge opening for it.”

The celebration was not just a welcome for the INS Tabar, but also a testament to the thriving presence and influence of the Indian community in the UK.

The event at Tower Bridge will be remembered as a symbol of cultural exchange, community spirit, and the enduring ties between India and the UK.

INS Tabar during the return leg from St Petersburg, Russia conducted a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) with the German Navy off Kiel Canal on August 5, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

INS Tabar had earlier visited Hamburg, Germany from July 17-20.

“The conduct of MPX between Indian Navy and German Navy off Kiel Canal signifies Indian Navy’s outreach and sustenance efforts also marking a significant milestone in the maritime cooperation between the two countries,” the release stated.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)