India comes to LuLu this week as the LuLu Hypermarket flags off a week of celebrations for Indian Republic Day from Jan. 23 to 29. The ‘India Utsav’ is a colorful shopping festival that will showcase the beautiful ethnic fashions of India and the amazing foods that make up India’s different regional cuisines. The festival was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, in the presence of Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Hypermarkets Saudi Arabia, government officials, and LuLu dignitaries at LuLu Hypermarket Riyadh Avenue Mall, Murabba. In Jeddah region, the festival was inaugurated by Consul General Mohd. Shahid Alam. It is being celebrated at all LuLu stores across KSA. Sayeed said: The LuLu Group plays a great role in being a bridge between India and KSA, as a corporate giant with an Indian heart, roots in the KSA and a global presence. “Not only has the group pushed the envelope in promoting Indian products in the region, it has also leveraged its knowledge of India to invest in projects that will generate employment and create valuable channels of wealth generation for Indian farmers and retailers. “I am very pleased to note that LuLu Group is opening new outlets in different parts of the Kingdom which is an indication of its popularity among the local population.” LuLu has flown in more than 7,000 products in different categories, from fresh fruits & vegetables to meat, and traditional wear like sarees and churidars. Moreover, LuLu is putting a spotlight on a huge range of freshly prepared hot foods being prepared in store for the entire promotion, from biryanis to curries, popular street foods, traditional sweets, and many more delicacies. Speaking on the occasion, Mohammed said: “The India Utsav is always an enjoyable shopping event where KSA shoppers can indulge their love for all things Indian. “We have always taken pride for showcasing the beauty and diversity of Indian culture through a festival like this. Lulu has a strong connect to its Indian markets and has continued to maintain it all over the years with extraordinary sales. “This is our humble tribute to the glorious traditions, food and offerings which have made its way into the hearts of the kingdom’s population. This is also our initiative to bind together all communities for a common interest, which is through food, fashion, film, and tourism.” LuLu, which has its own food processing plants and sourcing offices in India, has exerted massive efforts to introduce a new range of products, featuring organic, low-fat, gluten-free and many more diet-based food options in store that are in demand now with health-conscious shoppers. There will be promotions galore to help shoppers discover the wonders of Indian food and fashion – discounts on rice, traditional breakfast powders and cereals, spices, meats and ready-to-cook processed snacks and food. In addition, there will be a generous “Buy 2, Get 1 FREE” offer on clothing for the whole family. — SG