Hundreds turned out at Andaz Delhi on August 29, 2025 as the Jamaican High Commission in New Delhi, India celebrated the Caribbean island’s 63rd independence anniversary with a grand reception.

The event, which was held in partnership with the Jamaica Tourist Board, was hosted under the theme “Be Proud, Be Bold, in the Black, Green and Gold,” and featured reggae, cultural performances and displays, and authentic Jamaican cuisine.

Jamaica’s High Commissioner to India, Jason Hall, in his welcome address, reflected on the achievements of the island in its 63 years and reaffirmed its strong relations with India with which it shares 63 years of diplomatic ties.

“This independence, or emancipendence, as we like to call it, brings together independence and emancipation. We celebrate under the theme ‘Be Proud, Be Bold, in the Black, Green, and Gold.’ Looking back on our 63-year trajectory today, I am filled with awe, pride, and most importantly, deep gratitude. In our relatively brief history, Jamaica has emerged time and again on the world stage, punching above our weight through culture, sport, creativity, and resilience,” Hall said.

Jamaica’s High Commissioner to India, Jason Hall (centre), with members of staff at a reception at Andaz Delhi in New Delhi, India to celebrate the Caribbean island’s 63rd independence anniversary.

He also highlighted Jamaica’s recent economic gains, including reducing the island’s debt-to-GDP from 147 per cent to 69 per cent, achieving 33 consecutive quarters of growth, and strengthening investor confidence.

Hall also cited the island’s prowess in athletics, and revealed that Olympic legend Usain Bolt, the world record holder in the 100 and 200 metres who was recently appointed global tourism ambassador for Jamaica, is set to visit India from September 26 to 28.

Among the 900 guests at the reception was Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, who address India’s deep ties with Jamaica.

“This year is especially meaningful as we mark 180 years since the arrival of the first Indians in Jamaica in 1845. Over 36,000 men and women made that long journey, and a large section of them chose to stay back and weave themselves into the fabric of Jamaican society. They raised their families, worked the land, built enterprises, and enriched Jamaica’s culture for all these long years. Today, the vibrant Indian diaspora in Jamaica, perhaps 70,000 strong, or even more, stands as a true testament to that legacy. It is truly a living bridge between our two nations,” Patel said.

“As Jamaica celebrates 63 years of independence, I see a horizon full of opportunities, trade, investment, renewable energy, digital transformation, healthcare, education, agriculture, sports, culture, and so much more. On this joyous occasion, I once again convey my heartfelt greetings… May the bonds between India and Jamaica flourish as a model of South-South cooperation, cultural richness, and enduring friendship,” she added.

The event also featured a live performance by international artiste Tessellated as well as a performance of Bob Marley’s “One Love” by Hall.

The ambassador and staff members of the high commission donned madras jackets he designed himseld in commemoration of 180 years since Indians arrived in Jamaica.