Early Times Report
NEW DELHI, June 20: The Centre for Foreign Languages, Centre for European Studies, and Department of English, Pondicherry University, in association with the University of Delhi, successfully organized a One-Day International Workshop on "Explorations in Indian-Hungarian Experiences: Cultural Exchanges in Literature, Art and Music" at Pondicherry University.The workshop brought together distinguished scholars, artists, faculty members, researchers, and students to explore the rich cultural and historical connections between India and Hungary through interdisciplinary perspectives on literature, art, music, and history. The programme aimed to foster cross-cultural dialogue and strengthen international academic collaboration.
The inaugural session commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Binu Zachariah, Head, Department of English, followed by an introduction to the programme by Dr. Lakhimai Mili, Head, Centre for Foreign Languages. She stressed the fact that understanding the cultures and literatures of the world enables us to appreciate shared human values while respecting cultural differences.
The presidential address was delivered by Prof. P. Prakash Babu, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, Pondicherry University, who emphasized the significance of international academic partnerships in promoting cultural understanding and global engagement. Dr. P. Natarajan, Director, Centre for Cultural and Creative Resources (C&CR), Pondicherry University, delivered the felicitation address.
The technical sessions featured insightful presentations by eminent Hungarian scholars. Dr. Gábor Lanczkor delivered a lecture titled "A Voyage in Words and Visuality: Hungarian Court Painter in the Sikh Empire and the First Tibetan-English Dictionary," highlighting fascinating historical interactions between Hungary and India. Dr. Margit Köves, along with Dr. Gábor Lanczkor, led a discussion on "Hundred Ways from Hungary to India (1830-1930)," tracing the intellectual, cultural, and historical links between the two nations. A major highlight of the workshop was the captivating flute performance by Dr. Krisztina Lanczkor-Kocsis, which demonstrated the role of music as a powerful medium for intercultural dialogue and artistic exchange.
The valedictory session featured reflections from participants, followed by the valedictory address by Prof. G. Vasanthi, Dean, School of Humanities, who appreciated the organizers for creating a meaningful platform for international scholarly interaction. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Kamalaveni, Head, Centre for European Studies, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, participants, and organizing team for their contributions to the success of the event.
The workshop provided valuable insights into the shared cultural heritage of India and Hungary and reinforced the importance of international academic cooperation and cross-cultural engagement in an increasingly interconnected world.
The workshop provided participants with valuable insights into the shared cultural heritage and historical interactions between India and Hungary and reinforced the importance of cross-cultural dialogue in today's globalized world. The event also strengthened academic cooperation and highlighted the significance of cultural exchanges in fostering mutual understanding between nations. |
