The Indian community in Sri Lanka gathered in large numbers to celebrate Republic Day. The main function was held at India House in Colombo where High Commissioner Taranjeet Singh Sandhu unfurled the tricolor. A contingent of Border Security Force turned out in their ceremonial dress to salute the national flag.<br/><br/>In Nepal, Indian Ambassador Ranjit Rae led in the Republic Day celebrations. He hoisted the national flag and read out the message of President Pranab Mukherjee. On the occasion, the Ambassador distributed cheques worth around 4 crore rupees to the widows and next kins of deceased soldiers of the Indian Armed forces. The Embassy also donated books to 60 educational institutions of Nepal. Reaffirming India's commitment towards economic development of Nepal, the Embassy gifted 20 ambulances and four buses to various hospitals, non-profitable charitable organisations and educational institutions. <br/><br/>In Bangladesh, the Indian High Commissioner Harsh Vardhan Sringla opened the celebrations by unfurling the national tricolour at the new Chancery Complex in Baridhara. Hundreds of people of the Indian community participated with great deal of patriotism in the celebrations. A colourful programme showcasing India's diverse culture was put up by young boys and girls of the Indian community. Soulful renditions of patriotic songs including Vande Mataram by a band of the Indian army which has specially flown to Dhaka added to the vibrant atmosphere.<br/><br/>In the United Arab Emirates, the Consul General of India in Dubai, Anurag Bhushan led the Indian expatriates in celebrating the Republic Day celebrations in Dubai by unfurling the national flag at the Consulate. Our correspondent reports that similar celebrations were held at Abu Dhabi where the national flag was unfurled by the Charge de Affairs Pawan Rai.