Meet Darpan Prasher, a Punjabi on a mission to strengthen Indo-Georgian cultural ties

A Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award winner, Prasher’s work in Georgia has become even more significant in recent years as nearly 20,000 Indian students are currently in the country, a majority studying medicine. In an interview with The Indian Express, Prasher, the founder of NGO Cultural Diversity for Peaceful Future, speaks about cultural diplomacy and why he believes cultural differences should be seen as strengths, not barriers.

How did this journey begin?

Prasher: When I got a job in Tbilisi and first visited Georgia in 2002, I could never have imagined settling here permanently. But the warmth, friendliness, and hospitable nature of Georgians won my heart. Eventually, I decided to stay and contribute to bridging the cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Georgia. Today, both countries are like my two eyes—equally important to me.

What inspired you to start cultural exchange programmes?

Prasher: I saw many commonalities in Indian and Georgian cultures and I wanted to build bridges between the two to create a brighter and more inclusive future. Initially, I was managing cultural initiatives independently. By 2017, I realised the need for a formal platform to amplify these efforts. That is when I set up the NGO Cultural Diversity for Peaceful Future. Its mission is to foster cross-cultural relationships by organising workshops, Indo-Georgian festivals, and mentoring programmes, particularly for Indian students in Georgia. These initiatives not only showcase the diversity of Indian culture but also connect Georgian locals with the Indian diaspora.

What type of cultural events are being held by your NGO? What impact have these had?

Prasher: I have been bringing Georgian artists’ and students’ groups to India regularly for the past few years. Our events like the Indo-Georgian Festival in Delhi in February 2020 and the Indo-Georgian International Cultural Exchange in 2024 have been transformative. Hundreds of Indian and Georgian students participated, fostering mutual respect and understanding. Our NGO, in collaboration with Maharaja Agrasen College, Delhi University, and the cultural department of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, organised the Indo-Georgian International Cultural Exchange event, which saw enthusiastic participation from several Georgian artists.

A Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award winner, Prasher’s work in Georgia has become even more significant in recent years as nearly 20,000 Indian students are currently in the country, a majority studying medicine. (Express Photo)

Even during flights to India, Georgian artists have recited the Indian national anthem with enthusiasm. These exchanges deepen ties between our nations. We are now bringing young Georgian students so that they can be made aware of Indian culture at a young age.

Indian students in Georgia often face challenges adapting to a new culture. How does your NGO help them?

Prasher: We assist students with counselling and career guidance. By celebrating festivals like Diwali and organising events like dandiya nights or New Year events, we ensure the students feel at home. Our goal is to create a support system where students can thrive emotionally and academically. Many students have expressed their gratitude, saying they ‘never feel away from home’ thanks to our support.

Apart from this, I am present during monthly consular camps organised by the Indian embassy in Yerevan, Armenia. These camps held in Tbilisi address the concerns of Indian nationals, particularly students and workers. My presence ensures that their voices are heard and their issues are resolved efficiently.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we provided essential supplies like masks, arranged chartered flights for stranded students and helped them continue their studies online. It was a tough time but the collective efforts of the community made a difference.

Has your work been recognised?

Prasher: In 2021, I was honoured with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award by the President of India. I also received honorary citizenship from the President of Georgia and recognition from the Orthodox Church. These accolades reflect the success of our cultural diplomacy initiatives.

What other causes does your NGO support?

Prasher: We have undertaken drives like cleaning plastic waste from public spaces with the help of Indian and Georgian students. My young son, who is passionate about Indian classical music and plays several instruments like table and harmonium, has also organised cultural events at Georgian universities, engaging both Indian and Georgian students.

Your fluency in Georgian has earned you a special nickname?

Prasher: Yes, locals call me ‘Darispan’, a Georgian name. It reflects the bond I have formed with this country and its people. Language is a powerful tool for building connections and my ease in speaking Georgian has helped me aid students in their immigration work.

What message would you like to share on cultural diplomacy?

Prasher: Cultural differences should be seen as strengths, not barriers. Through my NGO, I aim to highlight the transformative power of cultural diplomacy. Bringing two nations closer, one celebration at a time, is my mission.