Uruguay Celebrates its Bicentennial in Mumbai

The Honorary Consulate of Uruguay in Mumbai, together with the Embassy of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay in India, hosted a special reception on August 25, 2025, at the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, to mark the 200th National Day of Uruguay. The event commemorated two centuries since Uruguay’s Declaration of Independence in 1825 and highlighted the growing partnership between Uruguay and India.
Following the recent meeting between President Yamandú Orsi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Rio de Janeiro, a renewed momentum is expected in this 76-year friendship. The celebration, held for the first time in Mumbai — India’s commercial and cultural capital — served as a reminder of Uruguay’s firm commitment to building a strong, modern, and positive partnership with India.

The evening brought together diplomats, senior government officials, business leaders, cultural figures, and members of the Indian and Uruguayan communities, in a celebration of shared values and expanding bilateral engagement.
Delivering the Welcome Address, Mr. S. Ramadorai, Honorary Consul of Uruguay in Mumbai, said:“It is a rare privilege to host Uruguay’s Bicentennial in Mumbai, a city that itself stands as a bridge of cultures, commerce, and ideas. For me, the journey from Mumbai to Montevideo with TCS more than two decades ago, and now celebrating Uruguay’s Bicentennial here in Mumbai, has been deeply personal. In Uruguay, TCS found its Latin American launchpad, and over time it also became a living link between the two nations — not just in business, but in people-to-people and cultural ties. As we look ahead, technology, sustainability, and education will remain important pathways to deepen our relationship.”

H.E. Mr. Alberto A. Guani, Ambassador of Uruguay to India, underscored the historical significance of the occasion and the optimism for future ties: “Uruguay’s 200th National Day is a celebration not only of our history but of the values that have guided us — democracy, peace, and international cooperation. At a time when the world faces climate change, inequality, and geopolitical uncertainties, Uruguay and India stand together as advocates of sustainability, fairness, and inclusive growth. This Bicentennial is a promise to strengthen our partnership with India in renewable energy, green hydrogen, digital governance, and multilateral forums, so that together we may shape a more balanced and responsible world order.

The Ambassador also expressed his hope that President Yamandú Orsi would visit India in the near future. If that happens, it would be a historic milestone — the first-ever visit by a Uruguayan Head of State to India — and would further deepen the bonds of friendship between the two countries.”
The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Minister of Marketing and Protocol, Government of Maharashtra, Shri Jaykumar Rawal ji, extended greetings on behalf of the Government and the people of India. He said:
“India congratulates Uruguay on reaching this historic milestone of 200 years of independence. Over the past decades, our two countries have strengthened cooperation in trade, innovation, education, and multilateral forums. Uruguay’s democratic continuity, its leadership in sustainability and renewable energy, and its global standing as a trusted voice are remarkable achievements that inspire us all. We value Uruguay’s friendship, and we look forward to building even closer ties — not only between our governments but also through people-to-people and cultural exchanges. This Bicentennial is not just a tribute to Uruguay’s past but a promise of an even stronger partnership with India in the future.”

The evening featured a short documentary “Made in Uruguay”, a video tribute to former President José “Pepe” Mujica, and the unveiling of a special edition of Envoy Excellency magazine dedicated to Uruguay 2025. Guests also enjoyed a curated menu of Indian and Uruguayan cuisine, symbolising the cultural fusion between the two nations.