The second and final day of the Delhi Nalanda Dialogue 2026 concluded at the India International Centre, bringing together policymakers, scholars, diplomats, authors, and young civil servants for discussions around knowledge systems, culture, governance, and the future of education. Held under the umbrella of the Nalanda Litt Fest 2026–27, the Dialogue focused on the theme “Knowledge, Youth & Cultural Exchange Dialogue.”
Organised by Dhanu Bihar in collaboration with the Department of Art, Culture and Language, Government of NCT of Delhi, and India International Centre, the event explored the intersections of language, education, technology, and cultural continuity.
The first session focused on Indian languages and knowledge preservation, discussing how governance, education, and technology can collectively support linguistic diversity and oral traditions. A. J. Alphons noted, “No language is superior to another—clarity of thought and strength of fundamentals must guide how we engage with knowledge systems.” M. J. Warsi highlighted the importance of community participation and technological innovation in preserving India’s linguistic heritage.
Another session explored public engagement, academic exchange, and cultural dialogue, focusing on how institutions and society can work together to strengthen cultural ecosystems. Vishwapati Trivedi reflected on translation and identity, while Tajender Singh Luthra emphasised that culture must be nurtured across generations.
The discussion on Nalanda as a global knowledge tradition examined its evolution into a global intellectual centre rooted in dialogue and multidisciplinary scholarship. Siddharth Singh remarked, “Nalanda was not merely a place; it became a living tradition of wisdom accepted across the world of knowledge.” Anand Singh and Himanshu Prabha Ray also reflected on Nalanda’s manuscript culture and archaeological significance.
A dedicated session on AI, knowledge systems, and future learning explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping education while engaging with deeper philosophical questions around intelligence and consciousness. Uma Kanjilal said, “We must work towards building a Digital Nalanda that connects our knowledge traditions with future learning systems.” Discussions also featured insights from Amit Pandey, Aquil Ahamad, and Anand Kumar on the evolving role of AI in society.
One of the major highlights of the day was the session titled “Golden Pathway with Nalanda at its Centre,” moderated by Sunil Tandon. Historian and writer William Dalrymple reflected on Nalanda’s influence across Asia, stating, “Once Nalanda was established, it became the undisputed centre of learning and authority.” He also highlighted the need for stronger conservation efforts, noting that only a fraction of Nalanda has been excavated so far.
The concluding plenary featured Sonal Mansingh, D. Aaliya, and K. Mahesh, with Sanjay Kumar moderating the session. Dr. Mahesh emphasised the urgent need to strengthen cultural dialogue and expand public access to manuscripts and knowledge systems, while Sonal Mansingh reflected on the enduring role of art, culture, and knowledge in preserving India’s civilisational continuity.
The organisers reiterated that the Nalanda Literature Festival aims to move beyond dialogue and create meaningful outcomes through support for research, publications, and academic engagement. The Delhi Nalanda Dialogue 2026 concluded with a strong emphasis on connecting India’s knowledge traditions with future-facing systems of learning and cultural exchange.
