Sonepat institute deepens India-Russia ties with cultural & language exchange

The Department of Foreign Languages at Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya (BPSMV), Sonepat, organised the Russian Language and Culture Interaction 2025 as part of its orientation programme.

A three-member delegation from the A.S. Pushkin State Russian Language Institute, Moscow — Evgeny Plakhotin (Deputy Head, Project Office), Polina Dorozhkina and Valeria Artemyeva (Ambassadors of the Russian Language in the World) — took part in the event.

During their visit, the delegation met Vice-Chancellor Prof Sudesh and presented her with souvenirs from Russia. Speaking on the occasion, Prof Sudesh said the purpose of the interaction was to strengthen educational and cultural ties between India and Russia.

The programme introduced participants to Russian pronunciation, greetings, literature, music, dance, cuisine and traditions. Prof Sudesh added that discussions could also cover historical relations between the two nations, international cooperation and student exchange programmes. Such interactions, she noted, not only provide opportunities to learn a language but also deepen mutual understanding and friendship.

The inauguration began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Head of Department Prof Mathachan KJ honoured the guests with angvastras and floral bouquets and outlined the event’s structure. The university’s Russian Department presented a welcome song in Russian.

Prof Ipshita Bansal delivered the presidential address and administered the Oath of Economic Patriotism. Prof Mathachan stated that the opening session featured the Regina Glossa competition on “The Role of Language in Socio-Cultural Development,” chaired by Prof Bansal. Himanshi secured first place, Mansi second, and Megha third.

An interactive Russian language session using a smart board engaged over 100 participants. All attendees received certificates and traditional Matryoshka souvenirs, while dignitaries were presented with special Russian gifts.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by convener Vidushi Sharma, reiterating BPSMV’s commitment to promoting international academic collaboration.