The celebration of Sanskrit Day on August 26, 2016 at Royal University Cambodia connects the bridge between the two countries
Sanskrit Diwas (day) was first observed in the year 1969. Government of India under MHRD celebrates this day under community engagement. The day is celebrated to spread awareness about the mother of all Indian languages and the first of the ancient languages spoken in India. But for the first time this programme was held with the efforts of Indian embassy and Prof C Upender Rao. Prof Rao is now on ICCR chair as a visiting professor in Cambodia. The program was held in Royal University of Phnom Penh, on August 26, 2016.
After Dignitaries entered in meeting hall, all the students welcomed them with ‘Tilaka’ in the Vedic style and presented the Khmer Scarf to them. Chunteng Hun, Lecturer, Dept. of Khmer Literature, RUPP, Phnom Penh welcomed the dignitaries. Students recited Prārthanā in Sanskrit and later they presented the flower bouquets to the guests.
An excellent video on ‘Sanskrit Activities in Cambodia’ was
displayed on this occasion. Prof Rao who is the teacher of Sanskrit language delivered a key note speech on this occasion. He said in his speech ‘Sanskrit is the bridge’ between two countries India and Cambodia. This is for the first time in the history of Cambodia, that such a programme is being organised. He said that he had found many Sanskrit inscriptions in Cambodia. The largest Hindu temple Angkor Wat was built by King Surya Varman in Cambodia.
Then 7 pairs of students beautifully recited Sanskrit Slokas with Khmer translations. Two students presented their feelings and remarks about Sanskrit classes. Dr Chet Chealy, the Rector, RUPP, Phnom Penh, who was the Guest of Honour on the occasion, said that Royal university of Phnom Penh wanted to develope Sanskrit language. He described Sanskrit to be the richest language in the world. He expressed his deep thanks to Prof Upender Rao and Indian embassy for putting their efforts to develop Sanskrit language in Cambodia.
Then N Sitlhou, the first Secretary from Indian Embassy, Phnom Penh explained how Sanskrit is the connecting
factor between the two countries. The main objective of the
observance of Sanskrit day is to promote Sanskrit and to educate the general public about the importance of Sanskrit. He said Cambodia must be glad to have such a Professor who knows Sanskrit and Pali both. It was possible only through the efforts of Indian embassy and ICCR, New Delhi.
Vote of Thanks was presented by Chunteng Hun from Khmer studies. The programme ended with the Recitation of Prarthana in Sanskrit by Cambodian Students. It was
followed by a Photo Session and refreshments and sweets.
—Organiser Bureau
