Interview of the week Mamallapuram, near Chennai is likely to be the venue for the for the second India-China informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. In this backdrop C3S Research Officer Balasubramanian C. in a conversation with Mrs. Uma Balu, explores nuances of cultural similarities between India and China. Mrs. Uma is Founder and Director, Sahara Asia; Member, C3S.

1. How significant is this "Cultural Cooperation" between India and China? Please share your thoughts on how it can improve bilateral relations?

China and India share a deep-rooted cultural relationship. The remnants can be seen even now - especially in Kerala. The Chinese fishing nets, “Cheena Chatti” (“Wok” in Chinese), Cheena Bommai (Chinese clay dolls), Chinese clay are a few typical examples. Tamilnadu was noted for its maritime activities during the Chola period and Tamil literature speaks in detail about the Chinese ships loaded with silk and other precious goods arriving at major ports like Kaveripoompattinam to be sold at the international market in Poompukar. On the spiritual side, we learn about the Pallava prince Bodhidharma and his predecessors who visited China and spread Buddhism. There were also Chinese scholars like Hiuen Tsang and Fa Hien who visited India to study at prestigious seats of learning like Nalanda University. They carried sacred Buddhist texts to China and got them translated into Chinese. It is in our hands to explore these interactions between India and China and establish a strong bilateral relationship that will pave the way for mutual development in all spheres.

2. Mamallapuram holds a special place in Indian Temple Architecture. What comparison and shared cultural parallels can you draw with Chinese culture?

It is not only Mamallapuram but also the Vaikuntha Perumal Temple that is noted for its panels - especially those that stand as a record of Pallava history. One of them depicts the life of Bodhidharma. His life in China is well documented and many important places relating to him - for example, the cave where he meditated for nine years - have been carefully preserved. Recently, a memorial has been created for Bodhidharma at Kanchipuram, which is a significant milestone in the Indo-China cultural and spiritual connect. As for Chinese parallels, we can quote the Terracotta Warriors and Grottoes of Gansu. The curved roof models of Chinese temples strike an interesting parallel with the temples of Kerala.

3. How do you think this can boost people to people connectivity between India and China and set the stage for active partnership?

We should have a good deal of research on these connects and bring them out in the form of well- illustrated literature, postcards, posters, etc. Places of tourist importance in these areas should be well preserved and included in India’s tourist map. Special stalls displaying souvenirs should be set up. Special tourist attractions like Snake Boat Races should have Chinese Dragon Boats also on display which helps one understand and appreciate the cultural parallels. We should have food stalls serving steamed delicacies wrapped in banana leaves (India) and bamboo leaves (China). Storytelling sessions need to be organised where the lore and legend of both countries are verbally or visually brought to life.

(Balasubramanian.C. , Research Officer C3S. His areas of interest include Russia – China Relations, Soft Power)