India’s Ambassador Arrives in Budapest for a Cultural Showcase
On 10 October 2025, the University of Budapest – officially known as Eötvös Loránd University – hosted a special event that brought together scholars, students and members of the public to experience the rich tapestry of Indian heritage. Organized jointly by the university’s Department of Indology, the Alumni Association and the Amrita Sher‑Gil Indian Cultural Centre, the evening—part of the broader Nation’s Evenings series—offered a mix of academic talks, performances, and hands‑on activities.
Setting the Stage: Academic Context and Cultural Context
Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Máté Ittzés, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Indology, who highlighted the university’s long‑standing engagement with Indian studies. With more than seventy languages taught on campus, Eötvös Loránd University ranks second worldwide in linguistic diversity, a fact that underscores its capacity to host a reasoned dialogue between Hungarian and Indian scholarship.
János Babos, Director of Services for the Alumni Organisation, discussed the history of the Nation’s Evenings series, noting its expansion from brief cultural presentations to fully‑groomed events that weave tradition, research, and community involvement.
Keynote: The Ambassador’s Vision for Academic Collaboration
H.E. Mr. Anshuman Gaur, Ambassador of India to Hungary, spoke about the evolution of Hungarian Indology—from early research by figures such as Sándor Kőrösi Csoma to contemporary studies that incorporate digital humanities and comparative political analysis. He emphasized India’s rapid digital transformation, positioning the country as a global leader in public‑service technology and economic innovation.
Mr. Gaur underscored the strategic value of a partnership between the two nations, identifying Eötvös Loránd University as a pivotal platform for cultivating future diplomats, economists and journalists capable of navigating bilateral cooperation.
Academic Presentations and Cultural Exhibits
- Dr. Péter Sági offered a photographic travelogue, illustrating the diversity of India’s landscapes, religious sites and urban centres.
- Krisztina Dávid presented “System in Chaos: Hungarian–Indian Intercultural Similarities and Differences”, exploring how traffic customs and social norms illuminate broader cultural patterns.
- Dr. Mária Négyesi discussed major Indian festivals—Dashera, Durga Puja, Diwali—highlighting their symbolic meanings and contemporary celebrations.
The evening also featured a dance performance by Panni Somi, Director of the Sivasakti Kalánanda Dance Theatre, accompanied by commentary that explained the meanings behind gesture sequences in classical Indian dance.
Interactive Workshops and Tasting Sessions
Attendees concluded the event with a short yoga session led by staff from the Amrita Sher‑Gil Indian Cultural Centre. Participants experimented with henna painting, learned basic Devanagari script and tried on authentic Indian garments and jewellery, creating a memorable, sensory experience.
What Prospective Students Can Learn from the Event
For international students eyeing study abroad, the ambassadorship event demonstrated the depth of cultural resources at Eötvös Loránd University, especially for those considering Indology, comparative studies, or international relations.
Academic Opportunities
1. Indology Program – Acquire expertise in Sanskrit, Tamil, Urdu and other Indian languages.
2. Digital Humanities – Engage with cutting‑edge research that connects linguistic data to policy decisions.
3. International Relations – Study diplomacy and economic cooperation between Eurasian and South Asian nations.
Student Life and Cultural Integration
Students will find peer groups and cultural clubs dedicated to Indian traditions, providing a supportive environment for language practice and community engagement.
Scholarship and Funding
Those planning to study at Eötvös Loránd University should consider the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship, which offers full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend for eligible students from select countries, including India.
Next Steps for Interested Students
If the event has sparked interest in studying abroad or exploring cross‑cultural research, here are practical steps you can take:
- Explore the university’s online application portal to view available programmes.
- Contact the International Office for visa and accommodation guidance: https://elte.hu/en/international-office.
- Register for the upcoming Summer University to experience a taste of student life.
- Apply for Stipendium Hungaricum through the official page.
For further updates and events, follow Eötvös Loránd University on social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Engage and Share Your Experience
We encourage readers to share their own reflections on cultural exchange or apply to join the university’s vibrant community. Your journey could inspire others to broaden their horizons and pursue international study paths.
Contact us with questions, or simply leave a comment below to start a conversation about the role of universities in fostering global partnerships.
