In anticipation of the Year of the Rabbit, or Chinese New Year, which comes on January 22, the Chinese Consulate of Kolkata and members of the Chinese community hosted a gala party on January 18 at Taj Bengal Kolkata.

500 guests were welcomed with a traditional lion dance performed by James Liao’s team, a dance instructor. The event continued Consul General His Highness Zha Liyou’s attempts to bring the entire community together under one roof by including certain relatives of Chinese citizens who currently reside in Canada but are currently in the city. The guest list featured representatives of the Chinese community in Kolkata, as well as dignitaries, officials, diplomats, businesspeople, actors, and others.

Because 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit, which in Chinese astrology denotes tranquillity, wealth, and harmony, Mr. Liyou expressed hope for the New Year. He cited the Chinese saying, “With crisis comes opportunity,” in his speech. The world, including China, had a remarkable last year. The CPC has set a lofty objective of building a contemporary socialist state with the new central leadership, which is led by Xi Xinping.

The 135.98 USD in bilateral trade between China and India also indicated Mr. Liyou’s aspirations for revived economic cooperation. The event also showcased the mixing of Sino-Bengali cultures through food offerings and performances by Chinese and Bengali dancers.