The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh dedicated the India Corner, a new student and community opportunity for globalized learning, on Thursday. The small library installation at Dr. Boyland University Hall was a gift from the Indian Consulate in Chicago. It features a curated collection of books spotlighting Indian history, culture, literature, and contributions to the world.

Importance of Cultural Exchange

Consul General of India in Chicago Somnath Ghosh visited UW-Oshkosh to plead the importance of ongoing and expanded cultural exchange between the U.S. and India. He noted their unique relationship as the world’s largest democracies and took pride in pointing out how enmeshed young Indian innovators are in America’s startup sector.

Ghosh argued that the India Corner will serve as a place to foster a deeper understanding of the subcontinent’s societal position and global influence. Citing the Hindu Upanishads, Ghosh reasoned, “Our ancient texts say ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ — the whole world is a family. It’s not saying ‘my community.’ It’s not saying ‘my country.’ Vasudhaiva means the entire world. The fact remains, as we are getting into a more and more interconnected world, we have to treat each other as family members. That’s the only way humankind will go forward.”

UW-Oshkosh Chancellor Manohar Singh, a first-generation Indian-American with degrees from Punjab University and a PhD from Southern Illinois University, said the book donation stands as a symbol of support for UW students’ progress. “Going back to Indian wisdom is going to be able to create a curious mindset in our students,” Singh said, echoing the Consul’s message of democratic emancipation of thought.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.