Celebrating 70 years of friendship with Russia, India on Thursday kicked off year-long celebrations of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The celebrations would be taken to different cities and towns of the country through organised cultural events, business meetings and other activities.
During the launch function here, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) President Lokesh Chandra said the last 70 years since independence had been of a "very close friendship", which actually dates back around 200 years.
"We hope that this friendship that we share would continue for years to come," he said.
Joint Secretary (Eurasia) G.V. Srinivas said India was ready to celebrate the festival of friendship in partnership with the Russian community and other stakeholders throughout the coming year.