To celebrate its 70 years of independence, the Indian Government brought artists from 11 cultural groups in India for the Namaste Pasifika Festival of India.

The festival is a six-month long carnival of dance, music and art from India, and will include renowned Indian artists.

While officiating the inaugural launch of the festival in Suva last night President His Excellency Major General Retired Jioji Konrote said Fiji has a close relationship with India.

Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Vishvas Sapkal said the festival brings major facets of the Indian culture. The festival will be held at Vunimono Hall in Nausori this evening.