Study in Belarus and Russia
On March 27, the large-scale cultural and exhibition event “Mela 2026” took place for the first time in Minsk, drawing a large number of guests to the Belarusian State Medical University. The festival, whose name translates from Hindi as “fair” and “meeting place,” became a true bridge of friendship between Belarus, India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.
The organizers vision was a success: for several hours, the university’s main building lobby was transformed into a vibrant space for interaction, where the centuries-old traditions of South Asia blended seamlessly with Belarusian hospitality.
The exhibition part of the festival took place in the lobby of the main building, turning it into a veritable open-air museum. Guests could explore the rich cultures of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Belarus through themed displays, decorative and applied arts, national costumes, and photo zones. International students presented traditional musical instruments, ritual objects, and installations to visitors, showcasing culture, crafts, and festivals. The exhibition was not just a display but a vibrant space for dialogue: anyone could try on a sari, get henna applied to their hand, or take a commemorative photo surrounded by colorful fabrics and ornaments.
Official opening and guests of honor
The festival’s opening ceremony brought together a distinguished group of officials. Welcoming remarks were delivered to the participants by Dmitry Alexandrovich Chuikov, Vice Rector for International Relations at the university; Shri Sandeep Kumar, Attaché of the Embassy of the Republic of India; and Sah Rama Shankar, Deputy Chairman of the International Association of University Graduates and the company “Milemir.” Honored guests at the ceremony also included a representative of the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Belarus; Oleg Sergeyevich Ishutin, Candidate of Medical Sciences and Associate Professor, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine for International Students at the Belarusian State Medical University; Vasili Vasilyevich Roudenok, Doctor of Medical Sciences and Professor; Alexander Rimovich Tsyganov, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, Professor, and Academician of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Rector of the International Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship; Nina Ivanovna Ivanova, Chair of the Belarusian Society for Friendship and Cultural Ties with Foreign Countries; Alla Danilovna Maevskaya, Director of the International Association of University Graduates; and other members of the public association.
A Journey Through Art
The highlight of the evening was a concert program divided into several thematic segments. The festival opened with a true “explosion of colors”—the Sapna Group dance troupe performed an energetic number titled “Holi,” symbolizing the triumph of light and the unity of people.
The audience was able to connect with the roots of Indian culture through the refined performance of the Indian Cultural Group—Natya Tarangini, where the language of dance told ancient stories. The energy of megacities and the modern film industry was brought to life by the Bollywood Beats group, while students from Sri Lanka presented the traditional Thaala & Laasya dance, reflecting the spiritual depth of their homeland.
The soulful vocal performances by representatives from India and Sri Lanka resonated deeply with the audience. The concert portion concluded with a performance by the fusion group Synchronize, which masterfully blended tradition and modernity.
Culture to Savor and Experience
Following the conclusion of the official and concert programs, guests were treated to a tasting of national cuisines from India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Those who wished to do so were able to appreciate the richness of spices and aromas, and the evening concluded with an intercultural student disco, where music from different countries united all participants in a single rhythm.
Interest in the event remained high throughout the evening—the festival was packed from start to finish, and feedback from guests confirmed that the celebration was a success. “Mela 2026” has firmly laid the foundation for a new, cherished tradition that will henceforth bring together students, faculty, and visitors to the capital every year for a celebration of friendship and cultural diversity.
Categories: NEWS & PRESS
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