Bonjour India 2022, the fourth edition of the event celebrating Indo-French ties, is set to host a series of workshops, debates, exhibitions, dance performances and more to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. By Anushka Goel
The fourth edition of Bonjour India 2022, celebrating 75 years of India’s independence and 75 years of Indo-French diplomatic relations, was announced by the Ambassador of France to India, H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Lenain, today. Besides narrating the shared history of the two countries through photography, science and letters, Bonjour India 2022 will also be an opportunity to bring in positive vibes, build communities, foster social interaction and create opportunities for diversity, joy and amity after a long time since the pandemic overtook the world, the press release states.
Bonjour India 2022: What to look forward to
The event will showcase in 19 cities in India, with a total 120 events which will include education, science, literature, cinema, gastronomy, street art, performing arts and photography. Talking about the event, Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain said, “Bonjour India is a gift from France to India, when the country celebrates the 75th anniversary of its independence. India and France have enjoyed a close cultural partnership for decades, thanks to the network of 14 Alliances Françaises throughout India. During this festival, we will honour the past exchanges and create new collaborations.”
The event is open to all, across the cities, and is thoughtfully crafted to entertain and educate. The ambassador added, “We believe that the two nations can grow closer by appreciating cultures and co-creating art, amalgamating views from both the countries. I look forward to coming together with the most creative people from our countries, resulting in greater creativity and enrichment. I believe that the free exchange of ideas between our two countries will plant the seeds of new thoughts that will help tackle the challenges that lie ahead,” the press release states.
The events include:
Photography exhibitions elaborating on the shared history between the two countries
How French and Indian photographers have perceived India over two-and-a-half centuries. The curated collection by Rahab Allana helps visitors go back in time and space to discover French connections across original prints and negatives from France’s museums, at Bonjour India 2022. The event also takes guests through the lesser-known history of scientific co-operation between the two countries, such as discovery of helium, electrification of the railways and more.
Inclusivity of public spaces into art
Bonjour India 2022 is set to reclaim urban public spaces through initiatives that address issues of gender through interventions. These include street art/wall art festivals with the aim of redefining equality and expression for all, along eith a street parade event that invents new ways of making sculptures dance.
Diverse programmes to celebrate the culture of the two countries
The festivities at Bonjour India 2022 will allow people to come back to shared spaces and enjoy a host of activities such as dance, circus, music, pop-up shows, debates and food and cinema, across 19 Indian cities. French cinema and gastronomy will come together to create a magical experience while a mobile cinema in a rickshaw screens visual arts out in the open.
Exchanging ideas through books and debates
The event will feature a debate, the Night of Ideas, on the theme of “Rebuilding Together”, with architect and community-based artist, Swati Janu and thinkers from India and Europe. What’s more, a French pavilion at the New Delhi Book Fair will introduce the country to French writers, illustrators, poets and more through workshops and book launches. In addition, the Goncourt Choice of India will allow students from nine Indian universities and the Alliance Française network to come together as jury and pick their best francophone literary work.
Know more here.
Related: France Adds India To Its Green List, Welcomes Tourists From The Subcontinent
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