Varanasi: As chief minister Yogi Adityanath and his team are busy wooing the Japan Inc with an investment push, a 21-member student delegation from the Toyo University explored Varanasi’s cultural riches, soaking up India’s traditions and philosophy from Feb 16-25.The students explored BHU’s rich cultural heritage, receiving in-depth training into Sanskrit, Hindi, Tabla, Kathak, and Yoga. The visit was part of a partnership between BHU’s Pali and Buddhist Studies department and the Toyo University. The delegation flew back to Japan on Thursday after gaining a comprehensive exposure to India’s linguistic, philosophical, and cultural traditions.During their stay in the BHU hostel, the delegation, led by Toyo University’s associate professor Kenji Takahashi, met vice-chancellor Prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi on Wednesday. The students shared their experiences studying at BHU and exploring cultural gems in Varanasi and Sarnath. Akari Shimizu, a student, even recited Sanskrit verses, embodying ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ and thanking BHU for its hospitality. Another student, Yui Hashimoto, spoke about their learning experiences in Indian music, language, and cultural activities.When the VC asked if they would return to BHU and Varanasi, the students were unanimous – a resounding yes! They said they eager to relive the cultural immersion and academic experience.Emphasising the need to strengthen international academic collaborations, the VC called for the expansion of long-term and online academic programmes. He said that initiatives that strengthen academic, cultural, and intellectual exchanges between India and Japan play an important role in strengthening mutual understanding and shared values between the two countries.Arun Kumar Yadav, chair of the department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, provided information about the academic, cultural, and regional activities planned for the students. In March last year, Prof Takahashi had visited BHU as part of a students’ exchange programme. He explored opportunities by touring various departments and institutes. Prof Takahashi also delivered a lecture in the department of Pali and Buddhist Studies on ‘The Influence of Sanskrit Language on Japanese Language and Culture’. He illustrated the ancient influence of Sanskrit on the Japanese language and the historical cultural ties between India and Japan.
