Today, India strengthened its connection with Fiji by opening a “Bharat Corner” at the University of Fiji’s library. This special section features books about Indian culture and history, highlighting the importance of the Hindi language.
Pro-Chancellor Pundit Bhuwan Dutt celebrated the new addition as a significant step in the university’s collaboration with the Indian High Commission. This follows the opening of the Rabindranath Tagore Centre in 2016 and the recent establishment of the Hindi Studies Centre.
Dutt emphasized the transformative power of books. He said, “At the heart of learning lies books and literature. They do not merely inform; they transform.” He believes that literature helps us understand different cultures and fosters critical and compassionate thinking.
Indian High Commissioner Suneet Mehta praised the initiative as a vital way to improve access to Indian knowledge. He expressed hope that the Bharat Corner would inspire students to explore, question, and connect with different civilizations. “I hope this corner becomes a place for study, discussion, and inspiration,” he added.
This Bharat Corner is the second in Fiji, after the one at the Labasa Town Council library, with plans for a third location in Suva. According to a recent survey from the Fiji National University, there is a growing interest in learning about diverse cultures among students, making this initiative even more relevant.
As we see a rising trend of cultural exchanges worldwide, such initiatives become crucial. They not only encourage a love for reading but also foster a deeper understanding between nations. The sharing of knowledge and culture is essential in today’s interconnected world.
For more insights on cultural initiatives, check out this [report from UNESCO](https://www.unesco.org/en/cultures-connecting). It dives into how cultural education reshapes societies globally.
