President Ramchandra Paudel emphasized the growing global popularity of the Sanskrit language, noting its importance not only in Nepal and India but across the world. Addressing a prize distribution ceremony organized by Jayatu Sanskritam, an organization dedicated to promoting Sanskrit, at the President’s House, Sheetal Niwas, President Paudel highlighted Sanskrit’s potential to boost cultural tourism in Nepal.
In his speech, President Paudel described Sanskrit as the “Amrit bhasa” or “elixir language,” containing timeless messages that continue to captivate humanity. He pointed out that the increasing number of universities worldwide offering courses on Sanskrit language and literature demonstrates the language’s expanding influence and significance.
“Sanskrit is a storehouse of knowledge and science. The propagation of this language and its literature is essential,” President Paudel stated. He added that Nepal, as the birthplace of many ancient sages like Vedvyas, Valmiki, and Vishwamitra, holds a rich heritage in Sanskrit, making it an attractive destination for scholars and tourists interested in ancient wisdom and spiritual knowledge.
The President also touched on the historical significance of the Jayatu Sanskritam Movement, which played a crucial role in Nepal’s struggle for democracy during the Rana regime. He asserted that the movement’s legacy continues to inspire the promotion of democratic values and cultural preservation.
Connecting the global interest in Sanskrit to tourism, President Paudel called for the integration of Sanskrit concepts like “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the spirit of global fraternity), “Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu” (welfare and wellbeing of humanity), and “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhina” (happiness and prosperity of the human race) into Nepal’s cultural tourism strategies. He suggested that promoting these ideals could attract international tourists seeking spiritual and cultural experiences.
The event also saw the President presenting the Jayatu Sanskritam Award to former vice-chancellor of Nepal Sanskrit University, Purna Chandra Dhungel, and Professor Neelmani Dhungana. Additionally, several scholars, including Prof. Dr. Rishiram Pokharel, Prof. Dirgharaj Ghimire, Prof. Dr. Ram Chandra Gautam, Prof. Govinda Chaudhary, and Prof. Chetonath Acharya, were felicitated for their contributions to Sanskrit studies.
Jayatu Sanskritam Chair, Dr. Badri Pokharel, provided insights into the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote Sanskrit language and literature, highlighting its potential to elevate Nepal’s status as a center for cultural and educational tourism.
As the global interest in ancient languages and cultures continues to grow, President Paudel’s remarks underscore the opportunity for Nepal to leverage its Sanskrit heritage in attracting tourists and scholars alike.
