The Inauguration of the Xu Fancheng Culture Study Center

Oct 26th 2020

Puducherry, India – The air was filled with excitement and a spirit of camaraderie as dignitaries, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts gathered to celebrate a milestone in India-China relations. On the occasion of the 111th birth anniversary of the esteemed Professor Xu Fancheng, the Xu Fancheng Culture Study Center was inaugurated, marking a new chapter in the cultural and academic exchange between India and China. This event also coincided with the celebration of 70 years of India-China cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

A Historic Event

The inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including His Excellency Sun Weidong, the Chinese Ambassador to India, Sri V. Narayanasamy, Chief Minister of Puducherry and Sri K. Lakshminarayanan , Parliamentary secretary to Chief Minister of Puducherry. Their participation underscored the importance of this initiative in fostering mutual understanding and respect between the two nations.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Sun Weidong highlighted the profound impact of cultural exchanges in building bridges between communities. “The relationship between India and China is not just defined by our borders but by the rich tapestry of cultural interactions and shared histories,” he stated. He further emphasized the role of the Xu Fancheng Culture Study Center in deepening these ties through education and dialogue.

Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy echoed these sentiments, noting that “Puducherry has always been a beacon of cultural diversity and intellectual pursuit. The establishment of the Xu Fancheng Culture Study Center here is a testament to our commitment to celebrating and preserving the shared cultural heritage of India and China.”

Honoring Professor Xu Fancheng

The choice to honor Professor Xu Fancheng in this way is particularly poignant. A revered scholar, philosopher, and translator, Xu Fancheng spent significant time in India, where he engaged deeply with Indian philosophy, translating key Sanskrit texts into Chinese. His work has been instrumental in introducing Indian philosophical thought to Chinese audiences and vice versa. The new center aims to continue his legacy by serving as a hub for cultural studies and exchanges between the two countries.

Distinguished Guests and Delegations

The inauguration also witnessed the participation of chief guests from various esteemed institutions, reflecting the event’s international significance. Among the attendees were:

• Delegates from the Dali Foreign Affairs Office: Representing the cultural and diplomatic interests of the Yunnan Province, known for its vibrant ethnic diversity and historical connections with India.
• Delegations from Dali University: Engaging in academic collaborations and student exchange programs that enrich both Indian and Chinese educational landscapes.
• Representatives from Pondicherry University: Known for its inclusive academic environment and focus on international studies, this institution plays a crucial role in fostering Indo-Chinese educational partnerships.
• Officials from the Zhoushan Foreign Affairs Office: Symbolizing the coastal and maritime connections between the two nations, highlighting the historical maritime silk route that facilitated cultural exchanges for centuries.

A Vision for the Future

The Xu Fancheng Culture Study Center is poised to become a leading institution for cultural research, education, and collaboration. It will host academic programs, workshops, seminars, and exhibitions that explore the rich histories and cultural nuances of India and China. Scholars and students will have the opportunity to engage in cross-cultural dialogues, research projects, and language studies, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s societies.

The center will also work towards creating digital archives of cultural artifacts and scholarly works, making them accessible to a global audience. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between traditional scholarship and modern technology, ensuring that cultural knowledge is preserved and shared widely.

A Celebration of Unity

The inaugural event concluded with a cultural program featuring traditional Indian and Chinese performances, symbolizing the harmonious blend of the two cultures. Attendees were treated to an evening of music, dance, and culinary delights from both nations, celebrating the rich cultural heritage that binds India and China together.

As the Xu Fancheng Culture Study Center opens its doors, it stands as a beacon of hope and unity, reflecting the shared vision of India and China to build a future grounded in mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. This inauguration marks not just the celebration of past achievements but the beginning of new journeys in cultural exploration and exchange.

In the words of Professor Xu Fancheng himself, “Cultural exchange is the key to understanding and peace.” The establishment of this center is a testament to that enduring truth, promising a brighter, more interconnected future for both nations.

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