Leaders from Nepal and India collaborate in a cultural exchange hosted by GPF
Nepal and India share deep-rooted values shaped by common religion, culture, spiritual traditions, and people-to-people ties. To further strengthen the bond between Nepal and India to build peace, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nepal organized the Nepal–India Cultural Dialogue in Janakpur, Kathmandu, and Pokhara on November 11, 12, and 14, 2025, respectively, in collaboration with Hindi Sahitya Bharati and the Central Department of Hindi, Tribhuvan University.
Some 211 education experts, cultural scholars, tourism entrepreneurs, and religious leaders from Nepal and India came together to enhance cultural dialogue and cooperation, promoting tourism, peace, and brotherhood between the two countries.
The event highlighted the close relationship and deep-rooted ties between Nepal and India across literature, spirituality, culture, religion, and economic prosperity, with a special emphasis on peacebuilding.
Representatives from Nepal and India showcased their rich cultural heritage through traditional dances, poems, and songs, highlighting the unique artistic expressions of each country. The performances offered participants an opportunity to appreciate the diversity and creativity embedded in both cultures and to set the stage for meaningful dialogue.
Dr. Saru Thapa, a participant, expressed her appreciation:
“I warmly welcome all the individuals from India who are here. Nepal and India share similar cultures and traditions, and as neighboring countries, this dialogue program has further strengthened the bond between us. I value this program greatly because, although we have differences, we recognize and cherish our shared values and culture. It is important that we teach our values, language, culture, and traditions to the next generation. We need to continue promoting the bonds between India and Nepal, and I believe this program/fellowship has taken a significant step in doing so.”
Ram Rohan Panta, South Asia representative of GPF
Speakers at the event stressed the importance of promoting Sanatan Dharma, the shared cultural and religious foundation of the two countries, to strengthen bilateral relations. Former Minister for Science and Technology, Ganesh Shah, in his speech during the event in Kathmandu, said that any issues between Nepal and India can be resolved through mutual cultural dialogue.
“Let us forget the politics and ideologies that divide us and focus on Sanatan Dharma, which unites us,” he said. According to him, ancient scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas prioritize dialogue, goodwill, and understanding.
Shah added, “If Nepal and India unite through their shared culture, traditions, and religion, we can spread the message of universal brotherhood and contribute to global peace.”
Former Education Minister of Uttar Pradesh, India, Ravindra Shukla, and South Asia Representative of GPF, Ram Rohan Panta, expressed confidence that the spiritual and people-to-people ties between Nepal and India help promote harmony and peace among the citizens of both countries.
Leaders from Nepal and India collaborate in a cultural exchange hosted by GPF
Pushpa Rajgopal, a representative from India, shared:
“Everyone knows that peace is essential, as it stems from the natural vibrations around us. We are all here in Nepal to promote peace, and I hope our efforts help bring peace not only to Nepal and India but to the entire world. This is my first international trip, and it feels special that we didn’t even need a passport to come here. I have received immense love and respect in Nepal; people offered us food and honored us, which gave me a strong sense of connection and togetherness.”
The event was supported by the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu, the Greater Janakpur Area Development Council in Janakpur, and the Pokhareli Youth Cultural Family in Pokhara.
