The Indian Graduate Students Association (IGSA) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) hosted a vibrant session of the Bharat Ko Janiye (BKJ) quiz, a flagship initiative aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of Indian culture, history, and heritage. The event, held on campus, attracted significant interest among the student community.
The quiz, part of a broader initiative by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), was designed to engage the Indian diaspora and foreign nationals in learning about India’s rich cultural tapestry. The quiz session at UIUC saw enthusiastic participation from both Indian and non-Indian students, highlighting the global appeal of India’s heritage.
The IGSA also encouraged attendees to promote the BKJ quiz among the broader university community, which includes over 3,000 Indian students and a sizable population of international scholars. The association emphasized the event’s role in fostering cross-cultural connections while strengthening ties within the Indian diaspora.
Bharat Ko Janiye: A cultural bridge
The Bharat Ko Janiye quiz, launched by the Indian government, is a key element of India’s outreach to its diaspora and global citizens. Organized periodically, the quiz targets youth, covering topics such as Indian art, economy, geography, and politics. It serves as a platform to connect Indian-origin individuals and foreign nationals to India’s legacy and achievements.
Participants in the quiz compete across multiple stages, starting at the local level and advancing to regional, national, and global rounds. Winners often receive the opportunity to visit India as part of a specialized Bharat Darshan tour, sponsored by the government.
Building a sense of belonging
The IGSA at UIUC plays a pivotal role in supporting Indian students, organizing events that range from cultural celebrations to academic networking opportunities. The BKJ quiz session is part of this broader agenda, offering a platform for students to reconnect with their roots and share their cultural heritage with peers.
Events like the Bharat Ko Janiye quiz are crucial in strengthening cultural bonds and instilling a sense of pride among students, it inspires more students to learn about India.
Broader implications
The initiative underscores India’s emphasis on diaspora engagement, as the country increasingly looks to its global diaspora as cultural ambassadors and contributors to its economic and intellectual growth. The MEA has leveraged similar programs to deepen diaspora ties, including the Know India Program and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
For participants, the quiz offered a unique way to connect with India’s history and culture while forging meaningful connections within their academic community. As IGSA continues to advocate for cultural exchange, the event marked another successful chapter in fostering inclusivity and awareness on campus.
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