Lumbini: The third edition of the India–Nepal Cultural Festival was held in the sacred city of Lumbini on December 8, celebrating the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual ties between the two neighbouring countries. The event was jointly organised by the Embassy of India in Nepal, the Lumbini Development Trust, and Lumbini Buddhist University.
The festival, dedicated to showcasing the shared heritage of India and Nepal with a particular focus on Buddhism, was inaugurated by Krishna Bahadur Gharti Magar, Governor of Lumbini Province; Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary (North) at India’s Ministry of External Affairs; Dr. Lharkyal Lama, Vice Chairman of the Lumbini Development Trust; and Dr. Rakesh Pandey, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. The ceremony drew vibrant participation from civil society representatives, academics, senior monks, and members of the Lumbini Development Trust.
The cultural segment featured captivating performances by acclaimed artists from both countries. A six-member Odissi troupe from ICCR, led by Sandhya Kunjan Menon Das, presented a Buddhist-themed performance, while the Nepali band Ghugu Mugu added local flavour with traditional musical pieces.
Earlier in the day, Lumbini Buddhist University hosted an academic seminar titled “India–Nepal Buddhist Heritage: A Common Legacy.” Distinguished Buddhist scholars from India and Nepal discussed the enduring influence of Buddhist traditions in strengthening cultural understanding and enhancing people-to-people relations.
The festival reaffirmed the historical and cultural bonds between India and Nepal, further promoting collaboration through shared heritage and spiritual values.
