Participating in the student exchange programme between the Gujarat University in Ahmedabad (India) and Otemon Gakuin University in Osaka (Japan) is a cherished dream of many students of these universities. Each year, amidst stiff competition, two students are selected by each university to participate in this cultural exchange programme. These students spend about three months (between Nov to Jan) at the other university; learning the culture, language, management,and other areas of interest of the other country. There are home stays where you stay with local families, historical and fun excursions, and exchange of local customs and traditions. Students get a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience of a foreign culture - an experience which, I am sure, is unforgettable for all the participants.
For me, getting an opportunity to participate in this programme` was nothing less than an act of serendipity. I had not heard about this programme until about 4 months before Nov 95. While in the final year of Gujarat University's BBA programme, our Director, Mr. Parikh, informed us about this programme. Students were asked to submit an application form alongwith details of their interests and extra-curricular and cultural activities/achievements. We had about three days to submit. My colleague, Taral, and I were selected from our college, and after a gruelling inter-college interview at the Gujarat University, we both were selected to participate in the 1995-96 Indo-Japan Student Exchange Programme. It was my first overseas trip! I had decided to carry the Tabla to Japan to provide a glimpse of Indian culture. Fortunately, I got several opportunities to perform. Be it the International Friends Association, the Lion's club, the Indian cultural centre, the University, or Tagore Sensei's residence, playing the Tabla was a memorable experience.
In sync with Prof. Sandip Tagore at his residence...
At the International Friends Society..
At the Lion's Club...
It gave me a sense of great pride when Indian music and culture was appreciated in foreign land. I also got the opportunity to take some piano and guitar sessions.
Three months passed by quickly, and so has the decade since Jan 96. However, the memories of this experience are still fresh. Sayonara!
No comments:
Post a Comment