How Did an Indian Diplomat Honor an Australian Professor for His Contribution to Hindi Language?
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Synopsis
Discover how an Indian diplomat celebrated an Australian professor's contribution to the promotion of Hindi language in Australia, highlighting the growing significance of Hindi education and cultural ties between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Sushil Kumar presented an award to Peter Friedlander in Melbourne.
- Friedlander's article focuses on the promotion of Hindi in Australia.
- Hindi education is accessible in every state through community schools.
- Hindi programs are broadcast on SBS across multiple platforms.
- India and Australia upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2020.
Melbourne, Aug 7 (NationPress) The Consul General of India in Melbourne, Sushil Kumar, recently met with Peter Friedlander, a former professor at the Australian National University, to present him with a monetary award for his article published in the quarterly magazine 'Gagananchal Visheshank', which is overseen by the Indian Council for Cultural Research (ICCR).
During their meeting, Sushil Kumar expressed his admiration for Friedlander's dedication to advancing the Hindi language within Australia. The Consulate General also showcased Friedlander's article in a post on X.
In their post, they noted, "The Consul General met Peter Friedlander, former professor of the Australian National University, and awarded him the prize money for his article in 'Gagananchal Visheshank', a quarterly magazine published by the ICCR. He praised Friedlander for his commitment to promoting Hindi in Australia. Additionally, Friedlander gifted the Consul General a book titled 'The Songs of Daya Bai', translated into English."
In his article, Friedlander elaborated on the increasing prominence of the Hindi language in Australia, noting that Hindi education is now accessible in every Australian state through community schools, such as IABBV in New South Wales and VSL in Victoria. He also highlighted that Hindi programs are aired on SBS across television, radio, and online platforms, along with community radio services like Canberra's Radio Manpasand.
The bilateral relationship between India and Australia is rooted in shared values such as pluralistic democracies, Commonwealth traditions, and a growing economic partnership. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has observed that in recent years, the ties between India and Australia have embarked on a path of significant growth.
Cooperation between the two nations has seen remarkable expansion in existing frameworks, while also branching out into new areas, thereby creating new opportunities at both bilateral and global levels. In 2020, Australia and India elevated their relationship from a 'Strategic Partnership' to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).
Point of View
I believe that fostering cultural ties through language promotion is essential for enhancing diplomatic relationships. The recognition of Professor Friedlander’s work showcases India's commitment to supporting the Hindi language abroad and emphasizes the growing significance of such initiatives in strengthening India-Australia relations.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the award given to Peter Friedlander?
The award was presented to Peter Friedlander for his article in the quarterly magazine 'Gagananchal Visheshank', recognizing his efforts in promoting the Hindi language in Australia.
How is Hindi being promoted in Australia?
Hindi is being promoted through community schools across various states, Hindi programs on SBS, and community radio services, making the language increasingly accessible.
What is the significance of the India-Australia relationship?
The relationship is significant due to shared democratic values, economic engagement, and cultural partnerships, which have evolved into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
