Editor, RE: “Indian star Zargar explains the inspiration behind his song, Oh My Rwanda” (The New Times, June 24). It is a matter of great pride for all Indians, whether in Rwanda, India or for that matter in any part of the world, that the celebrity singer Suhail Zargar was invited by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Refugee Affairs (MIDIMAR) and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees to perform at World Refugee Day in Kigali. Zargar won the hearts of the entire audience at the Kigali Marriott Hotel with his showmanship, vigor and captivating voice. It is without any doubt that his original composition titled, “Oh My Rwanda”, will enhance trade, tourism and investments into this beautiful land of a thousand hills. India and Rwanda enjoy most cordial relations across all parameters. A performance like Zargar’s will open up new vistas for collaborations and partnerships between these two great nations. We do appreciate the great support received by MIDIMAR and UNHCR in facilitating this landmark musical performance. Zargar had every intention of endorsing the tourism brand “Remarkable Rwanda”. A celebrity endorsing any brand could only result in a positive outcome for the brand. However, due to reservations expressed by the concerned tourism authorities, Zargar effectively changed the name of his song. I am reminded of my assignment with the Indonesia Tourism Promotion Board, many years ago, when the tourism slogan was “My Indonesia, Just A Smile Away”. Now, I would encourage my fellow Indians to fly the dream of Africa (RwandAir) and enjoy “Oh My Rwanda”! Clarence Fernandes
