In a significant moment reflecting deepening cultural ties between India and China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a personal letter to Professor Wang Zhicheng of Zhejiang University, commending his unwavering efforts to promote yoga and Indian cultural traditions in China. This gesture comes ahead of the 10th International Day of Yoga and symbolizes the increasing global recognition of yoga as not just a physical practice but a medium of cultural diplomacy and spiritual exchange.
A milestone in cultural diplomacy
The letter was delivered by the Consul General of India in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, at Zhejiang University’s campus in Hangzhou. PM Modi’s message appreciated Professor Wang’s remarkable contribution in fostering awareness and understanding of India’s ancient traditions, notably through his translations and teachings. Wang, a respected academic and translator, has played a pivotal role in bringing Indian philosophy to the Chinese public. He is the chief editor of the Yoga Library series, and his work includes translating seminal Indian texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali into Chinese.
Professor Wang’s influence has gone beyond academia. His virtual lectures—over a hundred in number—have received widespread attention and praise throughout China. His personal meeting with Prime Minister Modi during the G20 Summit in Hangzhou in 2016, where he presented his translation of the Bhagavad Gita, stands as a testament to his long-standing dedication to cultural exchange.
Yoga’s expanding footprint in Chinese society
Yoga’s growing popularity in China highlights how it has seamlessly integrated into the country’s wellness landscape. Over the past decade, yoga has become a mainstream practice across Chinese cities, with millions attending yoga classes, workshops, and events. Cities like Hangzhou, Wuyi, and Jiaxing in Zhejiang Province have hosted large-scale yoga gatherings, drawing thousands of participants each year.
The integration of yoga with traditional Chinese practices such as Tai Chi demonstrates a shared pursuit of holistic well-being. Professor Wang has also observed a surge in interest among Chinese youth in Indian philosophical teachings that focus on mindfulness and balance. His work is widely credited with bridging ancient Indian and Chinese traditions, promoting mutual understanding and spiritual connection.
