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Key Points

The Korean Cultural Centre in New Delhi hosted a vibrant discussion on Abhay K's book about Nalanda's global influence. Scholars and diplomats explored how this ancient university shaped education and spiritual thought across Asia. A key focus was Korean monk Hyecho's 8th-century journey to Nalanda, preserved in his historic travelogue. The event strengthened cultural ties between India and Korea through shared appreciation of Nalanda's legacy.

Key Points: Korean Cultural Centre Hosts Abhay K Book Talk on Nalanda Legacy

  • Abhay K discusses Nalanda's educational and spiritual influence
  • Event highlights Korean monk Hyecho's 8th-century pilgrimage
  • Explores India-Korea cultural ties through Nalanda's history
  • Book reveals Nalanda's role in shaping global knowledge
2 min read

Korean Cultural Centre hosts discussion on Abhay K's book 'Nalanda: How it Changed the World'

Diplomats and scholars explore Nalanda's global impact and Korea ties in Abhay K's book discussion at Korean Cultural Centre New Delhi.

"Nalanda's legacy remains a lasting link in the centuries-old connection between India and Korea – Abhay K"

New Delhi, June 26

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea and the Korean Cultural Centre in New Delhi hosted a thought provoking book talk on 'Nalanda: How It Changed the World.'

The book was written by author and diplomat Abhay Kumar, Deputy Director General of Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The event was held at the Korean Cultural Centre and was participated by scholars, students and literature enthusiasts.

The book talk followed a conversational format, with Lim Sang Woo, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Korean Embassy, engaging the author in a series of insightful questions.

The discussion touched upon inspiration behind the book, the historical significance of Nalanda as a great center of learning and its enduring relevance in today's global context.

The conversation explored a wide range of themes, including the origin of the book, Nalanda's contributions in the field of education, philosophy and spiritual thought, lives of prominent monks and scholars who once lived and studied there, and its lasting impact on the world.

A highlight of the discussion was Nalanda's deep-rooted connection with Korea. In particular, Ambassador Kumar recounted the journey of a prominent Korean monk Hyecho from the Silla Kingdom who travelled to India in 723 CE to deepen his understanding of the language and culture of the land of Buddha and studied at Nalanda.

His travelogue 'Wang Ocheonchukguk Jeon' or 'A Memoir of the Pilgrimage to the Five Kingdoms of India' offers a valuable account of his experiences in India, including his visit to Magadh, Kushinagar and Varanasi. His writings remain a lasting link in the centuries-old connection between India and Korea.

Nalanda: How It Changed the World by Abhay K (pen name of Ambassador Abhay Kumar) presents a compelling narrative of how Nalanda evolved into a renowned seat of learning and how its legacy not only changed the world but had an enduring impact on Korea's spiritual foundation.

This book is a well-researched work and offers a rare insight into the legacy of Nalanda for the readers who are keen to explore its historical and cultural significance.

The Korean Embassy looks forward to continue its collaboration with India to deepen its multi-faceted ties, with a shared commitment to preserving and prompting the legacy of Nalanda as a symbol of enduring cultural and historical connection between the two countries.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul P.
What a wonderful initiative! Nalanda was truly India's gift to the world 🌍. It's heartening to see Korea recognizing this shared heritage. More such cultural exchanges should happen between Asian countries. The story of Hyecho is fascinating - shows how ancient India attracted seekers of knowledge from across the world.
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Priya M.
As someone who visited Nalanda ruins last year, this makes me emotional. Our ancestors built something so magnificent that even after centuries, its light continues to shine. Kudos to Abhay K for documenting this legacy. Would love to read about the Korean connection - we Indians often forget how deeply our culture influenced East Asia.
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Arjun K.
While I appreciate the cultural exchange, I wish our own government would invest more in preserving Nalanda's legacy. The site needs better maintenance and global promotion. Korea is doing more to celebrate our shared history than we are! That said, great to see diplomatic ties strengthened through culture rather than just trade.
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Sneha R.
The Korean monk Hyecho's journey is incredible! Walking all the way from Korea to Nalanda in the 8th century - shows the power of knowledge that drew people across continents. Makes me wonder how we can revive that spirit of global learning today. Maybe student exchange programs between Indian and Korean universities focusing on Buddhist studies?
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Vikram S.
Interesting event, but I hope the discussion also touched upon how we can learn from Korea's success in preserving their cultural heritage. They've done remarkable work with sites like Bulguksa temple. Meanwhile, many of our ancient sites are in poor condition. Cultural diplomacy is good, but action at home is better!
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Neha T.
As a history student, this is gold! 🏛️ The connections between Nalanda and Korea through Buddhism are so deep yet so understudied. Would love if the Korean Cultural Centre could organize more such events - maybe even exhibitions with artifacts or digital recreations of Nalanda in its heyday. The youth need to know this

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