The Mirza Ghalib Global Center for Diversity and Pluralism was officially inaugurated on April 14, 2022, at Urmila Nilayam, PVCHR’s program office in Baghawnala, Varanasi. The establishment of the center was made possible by JanMitraNyas (JMN) with the financial support of Engagement Global gGmbH, in collaboration with the Indo-German Society affiliated with Remscheid, Germany, and Helma Ritscher, a prominent advocate for intercultural dialogue. This significant event was marked by the presence of Shri R. P. Singh, the Ex-Assistant Director of the Ministry of Home Affairs, who led the inauguration on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, symbolizing the spirit of diversity and inclusion.

    The center’s core mission is to foster dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among diverse cultures, a vision championed by Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, who has been a relentless advocate for pluralism, human rights, and social justice. His work, which inspired discussions on global diversity during his speech in Remscheid in 2020, laid the foundation for the creation of this center.

    The center bears the name of Mirza Ghalib, the iconic Urdu poet celebrated for his deep reflections on human existence, love, and the interconnectedness of diverse cultures. By embracing Ghalib’s ethos, the center seeks to advance intercultural dialogue and ethical values, encouraging respect and mutual understanding across different communities.

    Key Activities of the Mirza Ghalib Global Center for Diversity and Pluralism:

    1. Literature Club Launch: The club focuses on the exploration of Mirza Ghalib’s literary works, delving into his profound themes on life, love, and pluralism. It also offers a platform for introducing other notable global poets and authors, fostering conversations on the universality of human experiences through literature.
    2. Cultural Dialogues and Seminars: The center regularly organizes seminars and dialogues on topics of pluralism, diversity, and peaceful coexistence. These events attract scholars, activists, and the general public to engage in meaningful exchanges aimed at bridging cultural and social divides. The center’s inauguration in April 2022 included discussions on Ghalib’s philosophical relevance in contemporary society.
    3. Workshops and Educational Programs: Dedicated to promoting universal values such as tolerance, respect, and humanity, the center’s workshops engage students and youth in learning about diverse cultures and ideologies, thus nurturing a global perspective on pluralism.
    4. Art Exhibitions and Poetry Readings: The center hosts art exhibitions and poetry readings, particularly showcasing Ghalib’s verses. These artistic and literary platforms celebrate the richness of cultural diversity and underscore the importance of unity in diversity.
    5. Collaboration with Global Organizations: In line with its global mission, the center collaborates with international partners, including PVCHR and the Indo-German Society, to promote human rights, equality, and social justice. These partnerships facilitate cross-border dialogue on important issues such as pluralism and human dignity.
    6. Celebration of Historical and Cultural Events: The centerhonorssignificant cultural milestones, such as the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, linking the legacies of historical figures who stood for inclusion and justice with the ongoing mission of the center.

    Varanasi, described by Mirza Ghalib as the ‘Kaaba of Hindustan’, is a city with a profound spiritual and cultural legacy, making it the perfect location for this global initiative. By referencing Ghalib’s metaphor, the center elevates Varanasi’s status as a spiritual and intellectual hub, much like the Kaaba in Mecca is for Muslims. This symbolic comparison underscores Varanasi’s timeless role as a meeting point for different faiths, philosophies, and cultural exchanges.

    Vision for the Future:

    The Mirza Ghalib Global Center for Diversity and Pluralism is positioned to become a global hub for literary and cultural dialogues, honoring the poetic and philosophical heritage of Ghalib while promoting intercultural cooperation. Through its programs, the center aspires to connect past and present, inspiring future generations to embrace human values, diversity, and pluralism.

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    This confluence of literature, pluralism, and human rights advocacy creates a space for fostering mutual respect and peace in line with Ghalib’s poetic vision and PVCHR’s mission for a more inclusive and equitable world.

    Management:

    Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi (Founder Kashi Centre For Viksit Bharat, PVCHR, Jan Mitra Nyas): +91-9335688938

    Mr. Dhirendra Sisodia (Founder Benares School of Fine Arts & Artist): +91-9415343175

    Mr. Amit Kumar (Founder Mehta Art Gallery & Artist): +91-9956518670