Celebrations of 75 years of Swiss-Indian friendship conclude with Swiss Art Night ‘In the Air’

Press releases, 18.10.2024

On October 18, the Embassy of Switzerland presented a new Swiss Art Night ‘In the Air’ to celebrate 75 years of friendship between Switzerland and India. The highlight of the evening were three performances by award-winning Swiss aerialist Jason Brügger, who for the first time in India, along with his co-creator and celebrated hula-hoop artist, Eshna Kutty, gave stunning performances celebrating cross-cultural friendship. 

Swiss Art Night - In the Air | Jason Brügger with Eshna Kutty
Swiss Art Night - In the Air | Jason Brügger with Eshna Kutty © Embassy of Switzerland in India

Switzerland and India signed the ‘Treaty of Friendship and Establishment’ on August 14, 1948. The treaty came into force on May 05, 1949. This was the first of its kind, and one of the very first bilateral agreements concluded by the newly independent India. The treaty stated that there should be perpetual peace and unalterable friendship between our two countries. Very wise words of foresight: Humanity is in great need of both peace and friendship. The event ‘In the Air’ commemorated this historic milestone through the symbolism of aerial art and elevation, symbolizing humankind’s perennial dream of defying gravity and skyward ascent. Three unique shows were presented for the first time to a mesmerized audience who witnessed the elements – water, earth, air and sparks of fire – come together for a joyful dance of light and lightness.  

Quote by Swiss Ambassador-designate Ms. Maya Tissafi:
“In times of wars, this year’s Swiss Art Night ‘In the Air’ is about celebrating peace and friendship. Being lifted up into the air, transcending gravity, and flying above the earth have always fascinated humankind: it symbolizes elevation, lightness and freedom.  This year, we have reached new heights with the signing of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with India. This event is about celebrating what unites the Swiss and the Indian people: cooperation with end results greater than the sum of all individual contributions. As an Embassy, it is our mission to bring the Swiss and the Indian people together, to see them co-create, achieve and excel.”

Quote by Mr. Jason Brügger:
“I am beyond happy to finally show on stage what we have been working on for the past nine months. Art connects people from all around the world. It’s an honour to have the opportunity of performing in such a beautiful country like India. I am delighted to be part of this year’s Swiss Art Night in New Delhi.”   

Quote by Ms. Eshna Kutty:
“I am beyond thrilled to be sharing stage with such a talented artist and presenting something we have worked hard on over the past months. It’s been such an enjoyable journey creating this act and blending our cultures and art forms, I can’t wait for you to witness us at the Swiss Art Night.”

The Embassy made efforts to ensure an environment-friendly event. Sustainability was a guiding factor in implementing this project and will be at the heart of our upcoming biennale-initiative.   

The Swiss Art Night was launched in 2014. It subsequently established itself within the diplomatic community, business persons and artistic circles of the capital as a celebration of the arts. Due to Covid-19 pandemic, the 2020 and 2021 editions were postponed.

Know more about Mr. Jason Brügger: https://www.instagram.com/jasonbruegger
Know more about Ms. Eshna Kutty: https://www.instagram.com/eshnakutty

For more information, please contact:
Ms. Ruchita Jindal, Country Advisor – Communication, Embassy of Switzerland
Ruchita.Jindal@eda.admin.ch