Partnering progress

The large hoardings strategically placed on Poona roads beckoned visitors to the Indo-German Urban Mela (IGUM). "Approximately 150,000 people visited the Mela in Poona,” says Zubin Kabraji, regional director of the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce in the Peshwa city. "The IGUM was a five city event organized to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic ties between India and Germany.” The traveling festival started in Bombay last April, moving on to Bangalore, Madras, New Delhi and finally Poona, attracting more than five lakh visitors in total.

Held at the Deccan College Ground from January 11 to 20, 2013, the 10-day event proved to be a huge success. "The IGUM showcased Germany’s advancement in urban living spaces, as well as a host of cultural activities covering architecture, environment, engineering, the arts and people,” says Kabraji. The fact that Poona is home to more than 300 German companies contributed to the success of the fair. Automotive giant Volkswagen, which has a significant presence near Poona, displayed its NILS EV (electric vehicle) concept car; BASF’s Kids Lab (for chemistry), City Simulation Game by Siemens, a host of workshops, presentations and cultural events including a concert by the pioneering fusion rock band Indian Ocean, drew students and seniors alike.
"It is the unanimous view of all the organizers and partners that the events achieved their objective in toto and that there will be multiple spin-offs in the areas of industry, business relations, culture and diplomacy as time passes,” Kabraji told Parsiana on the email. He has been regional director since 2008.