The Consulate General of India in Shanghai successfully organized a special event to commemorate World Hindi Day, witnessing enthusiastic participation from students and faculty of several prominent Chinese universities. The celebration highlighted the growing interest in the Hindi language and Indian culture within academic circles in China.
Chinese Students Showcase Hindi Proficiency
The event served as a dynamic platform for Chinese learners of Hindi to demonstrate their linguistic and cultural understanding. Students from Fudan University, Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), and East China Normal University actively took part in the proceedings. Their participation was not merely ceremonial; they delivered prepared speeches, recited poetry, and performed songs in Hindi, showcasing a commendable level of proficiency and dedication to mastering the language.
This engagement underscores a significant academic and cultural exchange, where the study of Hindi in Chinese institutions moves beyond textbooks into practical application and cultural appreciation. The performances were met with appreciation from Indian diplomats and community members present, fostering a sense of shared cultural connection.
Diplomatic Support for Linguistic Ties
In his address, Consul General of India in Shanghai, Shri Anil Kumar Rai, emphasized the crucial role of language in strengthening the bonds between India and China. He reiterated the Indian government's commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to promoting Hindi globally while also encouraging the learning of other international languages.
World Hindi Day is observed annually on January 10, marking the anniversary of the first World Hindi Conference held in Nagpur in 1975. The day is dedicated to promoting the Hindi language around the world and recognizing its status as a global language of communication and culture. The Shanghai event aligns perfectly with this overarching mission, taking it to a key international arena.
Building Bridges Through Language and Culture
The celebration in Shanghai extended beyond formal speeches and student performances. Attendees, including members of the Indian diaspora and Chinese friends of India, enjoyed a cultural program that further highlighted India's rich heritage. The event concluded on a note of unity and shared future aspirations.
Such initiatives are pivotal in enhancing people-to-people contacts between the two Asian giants. By fostering a deeper understanding of language and culture, events like these lay a soft-power foundation for stronger bilateral relations. The active involvement of Chinese academic institutions signals a positive trend in educational exchange and mutual curiosity.
The successful commemoration of World Hindi Day in Shanghai demonstrates that Hindi acts as a vibrant cultural bridge. It facilitates dialogue and builds connections between Indian and Chinese citizens, particularly the youth, paving the way for more collaborative and harmonious relations in the years to come.
