A Tapestry of Indian Culture

On the 23rd of October, a uniquely festive spirit filled Belarusian State University of Foreign Languages (BSUFL) as the campus was transported into the vibrant world of Indian culture. Organised by our international students and colleagues from the Centre for International Relations, the event served as a true bridge of friendship between Belarus and India, offering every guest a profound immersion into the nation's rich cultural heritage.

The formal proceedings were opened with addresses from Elena S. Ignatovich, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation and Educational Internationalisation, and Mr Rajesh Kumar, Second Secretary of the Embassy of India in the Republic of Belarus. In their remarks, both underscored the significance of cultural exchange and the strengthening of cordial ties between the two countries.

The evening's programme was launched with energetic and mesmerising solo dances by Indian students. These performances captivated the hall from the very first moment, proving that dance is indeed the soul of India.

A vivid symbol of our two cultures intertwining came with a performance by students from the Faculty of English, who sang the Belarusian folk song “Kasiŭ Jaś kanjušynu” (Yas Mowed the Clover). They were followed by international students, who presented the patriotic Indian piece “Bharat Ka Rehnewaala Hoon” (I Am India’s Own).

Those attending were treated not only to dance and song but also to informative presentations offering deeper insight into India. Devang Patel, a participant in the ‘Russian Language for Intercultural Communication’ programme at the Institute of Advanced Training and Retraining, spoke about the country's geographical and cultural diversity, drawing on his seven months of studying Russian. A second speaker, Jargi Meet, who joined the same programme just one month ago, immersed the audience in the world of Indian discovery and philosophy. Addressing the gathering in Russian, he outlined India’s contributions to global science and its cultural-historical legacy.

A particular highlight for the audience was the spirited Bollywood routines from international students, followed by the energetic song-and-dance performance of “Jimmy Jimmy Acha Acha” by staff member Elena Arutyunyan (Educational Services Marketing Sector) and international student Drew.

The concert programme culminated in a flash mob, which was joined by all participants of the celebration. This finale provided a fitting and symbolic note, encapsulating the joy, friendship, and unity of cultures.

Following the concert, guests were invited to continue exploring India at interactive stations in the university’s assembly hall. Here, they had the opportunity to try on traditional Indian dress and jewellery, sample authentic Indian sweets, and have mehndi designs applied. Furthermore, a special art exhibition, “India Through the Eyes of BSUFL Students”, had been curated for the event. Through diamond embroidery, colourful drawings, and paintings, our students presented their own interpretations of the fascinating and multifaceted country being honoured.

The Day of Indian Culture at BSUFL was marked by incredible warmth and a wonderful breadth of activity. It not only afforded all present a wealth of positive experiences but also served as a powerful reminder that art and friendship transcend all boundaries.