In a landmark celebration of Hispanic language, literature, and culture, the Association of Teachers of Spanish in India (APEI) hosted a memorable cultural evening at the India International Centre (IIC) on the 28th of November 2024. The event drew an enthusiastic audience of Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, ambassadors, educators, students, and Hispanic heritage enthusiasts, underscoring India’s growing engagement with the vibrant cultures of Ibero-American nations.
The evening commenced with welcome addresses by Vice President Dr. Noorin Khan from Jamia Millia Islamia and President Dr. Gaurav Kumar from Jawaharlal Nehru University. Their remarks highlighted APEI’s mission to foster Hispanism in India and the pivotal role of cultural exchange in strengthening international bonds. Mr Mayank Malik from Delhi Public School Noida, the General Secretary of the Association gave a vote of thanks enhancing the support of the various embassies and their ambassadors as well as the hard work of the students. The dignitaries present were felicitated by Mrs Meenakshi Gupta, Vice President APEI, Mrs Karishma Sharma , Treasurer APEI, and Mr Anshu Shekhar Executive Member, APEI.
The evening was honored by the presence of Honourable Sri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism in India, who addressed the gathering. In his speech, he underscored the importance of cultural exchanges in fostering global harmony and highlighted India’s historical openness to embracing diverse traditions, including Hispanic culture. Sri Shekhawat expressed his appreciation for APEI’s efforts in promoting Hispanic studies and its role in strengthening India’s cultural diplomacy with Ibero-American nations.
The event was especially elevated by the presence of distinguished ambassadors from Ibero-American countries, including H.E. Mrs. Capaya Rodríguez González (Venezuela), H.E. Juan Angulo Monsalve (Chile), H.E. Victor Hugo Echeverrí Jaramillo (Colombia), H.E. Federico Salas Lotfe (Mexico), who addressed the audience. Mrs. María EugeniaGonzalez addressed those present at the event on behalf of the ambassador of Spain,H.E. Juan Antonio March Pujol.Their addresses celebrated the enduring friendship between India and Hispanic nations, inspiring greater cultural and academic collaboration, through such theatrical events. Deputy Chief of Missions and the diplomaticcorps from Argentina, Cuba, Venezuela, Mexico, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Spain,Colombia, Chile, Guatemala, enjoyed the theatrical experiment with students speaking in their language and accents.
Also gracing the event was Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi, former Minister of State for External Affairs, who took time out from her busy schedule to honor us with her presenceand Mr. K.N. Shrivastava, Director of the India International Centre. In his address, Mr K. N Shrivastava emphasized the significance of cultural platforms like this event in enriching India’s intellectual and artistic landscape, reaffirming IIC’s commitment to hosting such meaningful gatherings.
The centrepiece of the evening was the theatrical showcase, Journey of Life, an enthralling series of adaptations from iconic Hispanic plays. Students from premier Indian institutions such as Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University, Delhi Public School, and Springdales School brought to life the compelling narratives of Macario (Mexico), La Vorágine (Colombia), Pic-nic (Spain), Una espiga sembrada en Carabobo (Venezuela), and La Pérgola de las Flores (Chile). These performances, rich with themes of love, resilience, absurdity, and sacrifice, offered an immersive experience of Hispanic literary genius, honoring playwrights like Bruno Traven, José Eustasio Rivera, Fernando Arrabal, César Rengifo, and Isidora Aguirre.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1dBJrhOu4rhfyCEeV_10HuFRiFZJ7ZzAu
About APEI
APEI serves as a beacon for Spanish educators, interpreters, and researchers across India, uniting a network of dedicated Hispanists. With unwavering support from Ibero-American embassies, the association organizes academic and cultural initiatives, enriching Hispanic studies in India.
