India has strengthened its relationship with Fiji by inaugurating a “Bharat Corner” at the University of Fiji’s library. This unique section is dedicated to showcasing books related to Indian culture and history, highlighting the importance of the Hindi language.
Pro-Chancellor of UniFiji, Pundit Bhuwan Dutt, emphasized that the creation of the Bharat Corner serves as a significant advancement in the university’s collaboration with the Indian High Commission. He pointed out that this initiative continues a series of projects, including the establishment of the Rabindranath Tagore Centre in 2016 and last December’s groundbreaking for the Hindi Studies Centre.
“At the heart of learning lies books and literature. Books are silent teachers. They do not merely inform; they transform. Through literature, we inherit the wisdom of past generations, understand different cultures, and develop the ability to think critically and, most importantly, compassionately,” Dutt stated, underlining the transformative power of literature.
Indian High Commissioner Suneet Mehta hailed the Bharat Corner as a pivotal initiative in enhancing access to Indian knowledge. He remarked, “This corner is not just about India. It is about encouraging young minds to read, question, compare, and discover connections between civilizations. I hope this Bharat Corner becomes a vibrant space for study, reflection, discussion, debate, and inspiration, nurturing a lifelong love for books and learning.”
This newly opened Bharat Corner is the second such facility in Fiji, following the first at the Labasa Town Council library, with plans for a third location in Suva. The establishment of these centers showcases a commitment to fostering educational development and cross-cultural exchange, ultimately enriching the academic landscape in Fiji.