The Srinagar–Nalanda Dialogue 2026 concluded at the SKICC in Srinagar with the adoption of the Srinagar–Nalanda Declaration, reaffirming the importance of dialogue, knowledge-sharing, cultural exchange, and sustainable development in addressing contemporary challenges.
Hosted under the aegis of the Nalanda Literature Festival (Nalanda LittFest), the concluding valedictory session brought together scholars, policymakers, cultural leaders, and international experts to reflect on the historical and intellectual links between Srinagar and Nalanda, two of Asia’s great centres of learning.
The session was attended by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Karan Singh, Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Sh. Nitishwar Kumar, Prof. Nilofer Khan, Ms. D. Aaliya, Sh. Ganga Kumar, Dr. K. Mahesh, and Dr. Vic Gaffney.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Shashi Tharoor described the gathering as a symbolic reunion of two great traditions of learning.
Stressing that societies flourish when ideas are exchanged freely, Dr. Tharoor said, “Dialogue is not an accessory to knowledge; dialogue is a process through which knowledge grows. Cultures are strengthened not through exclusion, but exchange, learning is not a private pursuit but a shared human endeavor.”
Highlighting Kashmir’s contribution to global intellectual history, Dr. Tharoor referred to the journey of Tibetan scholar Thonmi Sambhota, who studied in Kashmir before helping develop the Tibetan script, describing it as an example of the Valley’s role in connecting civilizations.
Presiding over the session, Dr. Karan Singh reflected on the deep historical links between Kashmir and Nalanda, describing Kashmir as the “northern intellectual counterpart of Nalanda.” Marking the International Day of Yoga, he also spoke about Yoga as a holistic philosophy of life and concluded his address with the Sanskrit prayer:
“Sarve sukhina santu, sarve santu nirāmayāḥ, sarve bhadrāṇi paśyantu, mā kaścit duḥkha bhāgbhavet” (May all beings be happy, healthy, witness auspiciousness, and remain free from suffering).
Summarising the day’s discussions, Dr. Vic Gaffney emphasised the importance of connecting India’s ancient knowledge traditions with contemporary global scholarship. Concluding his remarks, he said, “AI also allows for the marginalized to access information that they could never do before and not only that, project their message across using social media and so on so that their voices can be heard in the community.”
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, highlighted Kashmir’s long-standing contribution to philosophy, literature, and knowledge systems.
She said, “Nalanda symbolized openness, dialogue and the universal quest for wisdom. Kashmir too occupies a unique and distinguished place in the intellectual history of our civilization.”
Sh. Nitishwar Kumar spoke about the importance of dialogue in preserving India’s civilisational heritage while encouraging future innovation.
The Srinagar–Nalanda Declaration called for stronger collaboration between educational institutions, policymakers, and cultural organisations to promote knowledge-based governance, preserve cultural and ecological heritage, and encourage sustainable tourism. It also emphasised the importance of pluralism, civilisational dialogue, and the continued relevance of ancient knowledge systems in addressing modern challenges.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. K. Mahesh, who acknowledged the contributions of the dignitaries, delegates, organisers, and the Nalanda Literature Festival team in making the dialogue a success. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening scholarship, cultural understanding, and cooperation through continued dialogue and exchange of ideas.
