Hon’ble Governor inaugurates Alexandra David-Neel exhibition in Gangtok
Gangtok, April 8 (IPR): Hon’ble Governor, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, attended the exhibition titled “Alexandra David-Neel: A Journey into Buddhism (1912–1916)” as the Chief Guest at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT), Gangtok, today.
At the outset, Hon’ble Governor inaugurated the photo exhibition titled “Alexandra David-Neel in Sikkim: A Journey into Buddhism (1912–1916)” in the presence of Ambassador of France to India, His Excellency Dr Thierry Mathou. The exhibition features photographs from the collection of Maison Alexandra David-Neel, Digne-les-Bains, France, displayed at the premises of NIT.
In his address, Hon’ble Governor Mr Om Prakash Mathur stated that the exhibition brings out the life and contributions of Alexandra David-Neel and her role in introducing Buddhist philosophy from India to the Western world through her writings. He noted that she spent over three years in Sikkim, where she interacted with people across sections of society, including the royal family and the public.
He further stated that her stay in Sikkim contributed to her understanding of Buddhist philosophy, spiritual practice and the Tibetan language, and laid the foundation for her later journeys and writings. He added that her interaction with local scholars strengthened her knowledge, which later supported her journey to Lhasa and her work in presenting Buddhist thought.
The Governor stated that Sikkim represents a centre of spirituality, culture and knowledge, and that Buddhist teachings have shaped the social and cultural life of the State.
On the occasion, he expressed gratitude to the Government of India for announcing the Buddhist Circuit Development Scheme for the North-East in the Union Budget. He stated that the initiative will support the promotion of Buddhism and provide scope to showcase the cultural and spiritual heritage of Sikkim and the North-Eastern region.
He further stated that the legacy of Alexandra David-Neel and Sikkim’s association with Buddhist traditions adds relevance to the scheme. He expressed confidence that the initiative will support cultural identity and the preservation of heritage.
The Governor congratulated the Embassy of France, the French Institute in India, the Embassies of Belgium and Switzerland, and all officials involved in organising the exhibition.
Ambassador of France to India, His Excellency Dr Thierry Mathou, in his address, expressed his pleasure at being part of the exhibition and stated that such initiatives strengthen cultural understanding and academic exchange. He stated that the life and work of Alexandra David-Neel continues to hold importance in strengthening cultural connections between India and Europe. He also appreciated the efforts of Research Consultant, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Convenor of the Exhibition-cum-Symposium, Dr Anna Balikci Denjongpa, for curating and organising the exhibition.
Earlier, Director, NIT, Dr Passang D Phempu, delivered the welcome address. He welcomed the Hon’ble Governor, ambassadors, dignitaries and participants, and stated that the exhibition reflects the institute’s continued engagement in research and cultural documentation. He also expressed gratitude to the collaborating institutions and partners for their support in organising the exhibition.
Research Consultant, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and also the Convenor of the Exhibition-cum-Symposium, Dr Anna Balikci Denjongpa, presented an introduction to the exhibition. She outlined its concept, highlighted the historical context of Alexandra David-Neel’s association with Sikkim, and explained the significance of the photographic collection and its documentation. She also informed the gathering about the objectives of the exhibition and its role in promoting research and cultural understanding.
The programme included the screening of a documentary titled "Alexandra David-Néel: From Sikkim to Forbidden Tibet".
The exhibition was attended by Her Royal Highness Ashi Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck of Bhutan, Ambassador of Switzerland to India, Her Excellency Ms Maya Tissafi, Ambassador of Belgium to India, His Excellency Mr Didier Vandenhasselt, Country Director, French Institute in India, Mr Grégor Trumel, Consul General of France in Kolkata, Mr Thierry Morel, along with delegates, officials and research scholars.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Research Consultant, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Convenor of the Exhibition-cum-Symposium, Dr Anna Balikci Denjongpa.