Indo-French Cultural Exchange Program at Suncity School Gurgaon

Gurgaon, October 16, 2015: The Suncity World School, Gurgaon added a new chapter in its endeavour to establish a tradition of cultural exchange.24 students and 2 teachers from Lycee l’ Oiselet, School, France have come to India as a part of this 12 day student exchange program, which is organised by Suncity School. These students and teachers are residing with the students and teachers of Suncity as part of this program for a 360 degree exposure to the Indian Culture. The culmination programme was organised today and the occasion was graced by Dr. Philippe Arhets, Science Counsellor and Head of Department, Science and Technology, The French Embassy

The student exchange programme conducted annually with its French partner is gradually becoming a tradition with the culmination of 5th such program. The exchange programme was aimed at giving the French students a complete feel of the Indian tradition and culture in the light of advances made by India. Like every year, the students were exposed to Indian culture for 12 days in a planned manner. The major attraction of the program was the traditional dance ‘Lavni’ presented by the French girls. Prior to the dance performance  the French students paid tribute to Rabindranath Tagore and sung his famous song Ekla Chalo Re.

An elated dancer from among the students who performed the Lavni said, “The trip has been an experience to cherish all my life. It was wonderful to know and understand the Indian culture. The visit enlightened us on the various aspects of the culture, we learnt the Lavni Dance among many other things”.

The Principal Ms. Rupa Chakravarty said, “It has been a wonderful experience hosting these students. As a part of our effort to spread the culture and tradition of India we have been doing this for the last five years. We insisted on having maximum interaction among the exchange students and our children so that a rapport is established between them. After all in today’s world of social media friendships can be continued despite long distances and this exposure that they are getting will not remain an isolated event”.

Dr. Philippe Arhets exclaimed that it was an overwhelming experience for him. He said that, “I am generally invited to events related to science and technology and not to events related to culture and tradition. I am elated to see the French students dance the traditional Indian dance. Such exchange programmes should be encouraged as they form the foundation for future association and collaborations. I am thankful to Suncity for hosting our students and exposing them to the vast Indian culture and tradition.”

The activities and projects of learning planned for them introduced them to the different facets of the Indian history, culture and tradition. Visits to the Taj Mahal, Dilli Haat, The Modern Art Gallery, The National Museum, Kingdom of Dreams and the Qutub Minar were planned with the same intent. On the penultimate day of their visit they were exposed to the soulful rendition of Sarod by the talented Ayaan Ali Khan.