Belgian King's Day 2025: A Celebration of Belgian and Indian Heritage

Belgium and India share a longstanding and multifaceted partnership rooted in shared democratic values and mutual respect. Belgium stands as one of the first European nations to establish diplomatic ties with independent India in September 1947, a relationship anchored in commitment to the rule of law, federalism, and pluralism. This enduring connection has evolved into robust cooperation spanning political, economic, technological, and cultural spheres, reinforcing the deep bonds between the two nations.​

Belgium Ambassador Didier Vanderhasselt with Periasamy Kumaran, Secretary (East) of India's Ministry of External Affairs

A Festival of Two Cultures

On November 20, 2025, the Embassy of Belgium in New Delhi, hosted by Ambassador Didier Vanderhasselt, commemorated King's Day through a distinctive celebration titled "A Celebration of Indian and Belgian Heritage." The event was graced by Periasamy Kumaran, Secretary (East) of India's Ministry of External Affairs, as the chief guest, alongside other distinguished dignitaries from various nations.​

EICBI Chairman Sujit S Nair with EuropeIndia40 leaders and iconic Belgian Smurf character

The gathering held at the Belgian Residence, a magnificent structure designed by renowned Indian sculptor and patron Satish Gujral and commissioned by the Belgian State in 1980, included representatives from the diplomatic community, Bhutanese Ambassador Vetsop Namgyel, French Ambassador Thierry Mathou, Dutch Ambassador Marisa Gerards, Japanese Ambassador ONO Keiichi, German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann, Lithuanian Ambassador Diana Mickevičienė, Romanian Ambassador Sena Latif and Swedish Ambassador Jan Thesleff, and business figures like Sujit S Nair, Chairman of Europe India Centre for Business and Industry, among other distinguished guests.

The evening featured performances by India's Trikayaa Dance Foundation, showcasing classical and Rajasthani dance traditions. These performances were interwoven with appearances by the Royal Stilt Walkers of Merchtem, traditional Belgian folklore figures, creating an immersive experience celebrating shared heritage. The juxtaposition of Indian dance rhythms with Belgian festival traditions underscored the cultural parallels between the two nations, demonstrating how both societies value heritage, tradition, and artistic expression.

Commemorating the Belgian Monarchy

Belgium's King's Day is an annual tradition celebrated on November 15th that honours the monarchy and national unity, a practice dating back to 1866. The celebration, sometimes referred to as the "Feast of the Dynasty," was originally established to commemorate King Leopold I and was initially tied to the name days of Leopold and Albert, the first monarchs whose names were borne by the first four heirs to the throne. The tradition continues to serve as an annual celebration honouring the monarchy's role in maintaining Belgian unity and national cohesion.

King Philippe, who became sovereign in 2013, continues the tradition as the current monarch. Beyond its cultural significance, King's Day serves important diplomatic purposes, allowing Belgian embassies and institutions to strengthen international relationships with other countries through formal celebrations and cultural exchanges.