India’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Abhay Kumar, met with members of the Indian community in Baku to discuss upcoming community activities. Praveenkumar Ramachandran Nair and Anas Meerasahib, Executive Committee Members of the Baku Malayalee Association (BMA), informed the Ambassador about the Association’s plans, including organizing a cricket tournament. Ambassador Kumar suggested involving Azerbaijani players in the tournament to promote cricket in Azerbaijan and enhance cultural ties between the two nations through sports.
The discussion also touched upon BMA’s upcoming cultural events, such as the Onam celebration. Ambassador Kumar praised the Association’s efforts, emphasizing the significance of such initiatives in strengthening cultural relations and fostering mutual understanding between India and Azerbaijan. Prashant Mishra, President of the Indian Association of Azerbaijan, also met with Ambassador Kumar to explore ways the association can contribute to promoting cultural ties between India and Azerbaijan.
During his visit, Ambassador Kumar met with Amit Mohan Govil, Director of the Foreign Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-IND), who was in Baku for the Egmont Group Plenary Meetings. The Ambassador commended FIU-IND for securing the Runner-up position at the Best Egmont Case Award 2026 in Baku. Ambassador Kumar also visited Khinalig, one of Azerbaijan’s oldest highland settlements, to learn about its unique language, cultural traditions, and stone architecture. He further explored the Historical and Ethnographic Museum of Khinalig, delving into the village’s rich cultural heritage through rare archaeological finds and traditional artefacts.
Additionally, Ambassador Kumar visited Red Village, the home of the Mountain Jewish community, renowned for preserving its language, traditions, and heritage over centuries. His visit included the historic synagogue and the Mountain Jews Museum, where he met Director Igor Shaulov to gain insights into the community’s history and cultural legacy.
