India-Nepal Cultural Festival Celebrates Shared Culture and Heritage

In a celebration of the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Nepal, the Embassy of India in Nepal, in collaboration with the Lumbini Development Trust and Lumbini Buddhist University, successfully organized the inaugural India-Nepal Cultural Festival in Lumbini.

The festival, held on December 8, aimed to showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of both nations, with a special emphasis on Buddhism, a common thread that runs through the historical fabric of India and Nepal. The event featured a diverse range of activities that brought together the essence of both nations’ artistic, culinary, and spiritual expressions.

The grand inauguration ceremony was graced by Ambassador of India to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of Nepal, Sudan Kirati, and Chief Minister of Lumbini Province, Dilli Bahadur Chaudhary. The trio jointly inaugurated the festival, symbolizing the collaborative spirit of the two nations.

A highlight of the festival was the Sand Mandala Drawing Art Exhibition, an intricate display prepared by monk artists from Hemis Monastery in Ladakh, India. The exhibition showcased the exquisite skill and craftsmanship of these artists, providing a mesmerizing visual journey into the traditional Buddhist art form.

Renowned photographer Benoy Behl’s captivating photo exhibition, unveiled during the inauguration, offered a comprehensive perspective on the monuments and art heritage of Buddhism, spanning from ancient times to the present day. The stunning photographs captured the essence of Buddhist heritage sites, adding a visual dimension to the festival.

The evening unfolded with a vibrant cultural program that featured performances by artists from both India and Nepal. The Cham Dance by artists from Thiksey Monastery in Leh, Bharatnatyam presented by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of the Embassy, Tharu Dance by local artists from Lumbini, and a Sitar recital by Sukarma Band of Nepal left the audience enthralled.

Adding a flavorful touch to the festivities, the Street Food Festival at Lumbini World Peace and Harmony Visitor Center showcased the diverse culinary heritage of both nations. Attendees savored delicacies such as Pakora, Tharu style Taruwa, Sabudana Wada, Newari style lentils Bara, Jalebi, and more, providing a gastronomic journey through the rich tapestry of Indian and Nepali cuisine.

Simultaneously, an Academic Seminar titled “Exploring Impact of Buddhist Teachings on Community Development and Global Well-being” took place at Lumbini Buddhist University. Eminent Buddhist scholars from both India and Nepal shared their insights on the relevance of Buddhist teachings in the modern world, underlining the festival’s intellectual depth.

The success of the inaugural India-Nepal Cultural Festival has prompted organizers to make it an annual event in Lumbini. The festival, fostering cultural exchange, shared heritage, and historical connections, is expected to become a cornerstone in the ongoing relationship between the two nations. The Sand Mandala Art Exhibition and the Photo Exhibition will remain open to visitors on the second day of the festival, continuing to mesmerize and educate visitors on December 9, 2023.