Cultural Bridges: India Meets China at Jing'an Temple

India's Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, visited the iconic Jing'an Temple, offering prayers to its 15-tonne silver Buddha and highlighting the deep-rooted cultural connection between India and China through the temple's architecture, which incorporates Indian influences such as the Ashoka Stambha and Bodh Gaya.

India's Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, made a significant cultural visit to the historic Jing'an Temple in China, which dates back to 247 A.D. Mathur offered prayers to the temple's distinguished 15-tonne silver Buddha idol, emphasizing the spiritual and architectural ties between India and China.

The temple's architecture serves as a testimony to this connection, with elements like the Zhengfa Jiuzhu Brahma Block reflecting the design of India's National Emblem, the Ashoka Stambha, and the Jing'an Pagoda drawing inspiration from Bodh Gaya. These features spotlight the enduring bond between the two ancient civilizations, as noted by the Consulate.

Pratik Mathur, an experienced Indian Foreign Service officer, recently took charge as the Consul General of India in Shanghai. Previously, he held influential roles, including Deputy Secretary in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office and as Minister (Political) at India's UN Mission in New York. His visit underscores the ongoing exchange and mutual respect between India and China.

(With inputs from agencies.)