Kyrgyz and Indian scholars to study parallels between Manas and Mahabharata

An international Center for Civilizational Studies, Manas and Mahabharata, has been established in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to conduct comparative research on the Kyrgyz epic "Manas" and the Indian epic "Mahabharata." The center's creation is intended to promote academic and cultural cooperation between the two nations.

The institution was founded by the National Manas Academy and the Centre for Studies in International Relations (CSIR) based in New Delhi. Organizers stated that the center will focus on comparative studies of the two countries' rich epic traditions. Researchers will delve into the history, literature, philosophy, cultural values, and potential parallels between "Manas" and "Mahabharata." The initiative also aims to foster intercultural dialogue, humanitarian diplomacy, and international academic collaboration, including the training of young researchers.

During the opening ceremony, cooperation agreements were signed between the National Manas Academy, the Indian research center, and seven Kyrgyz universities. These institutions, including Kyrgyz National University and the American University of Central Asia (AUCA), are expected to engage in joint research, publish academic works, facilitate exchange programs, and involve emerging scholars in the study of epic heritage.

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The center will also focus on intercultural dialogue, humanitarian diplomacy, international academic cooperation, and the training of young researchers.

A significant highlight of the event was the presentation of the first Hindi translation of the "Manas" epic. This translation was a collaborative effort by Indian scholars Hem Chandra Pande and Ramakant Dwivedi, building upon the Russian poetic adaptation by Kyrgyz People’s Writer Mar Baidzhiev. The published work encompasses all three parts of the epic trilogy: "Manas," "Semetey," and "Seytek." The translators expressed hope that this edition will introduce Kyrgyzstan's epic tradition to Indian readers and strengthen academic ties between the two countries.

Attendees at the opening ceremony included representatives from the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyzstan, relevant ministries of science and culture, the Indian Embassy, scholars, traditional "manaschi" reciters, and students. Organizers anticipate the center will serve as a lasting platform for exploring the historical and cultural connections between Kyrgyzstan and India, as well as the shared heritage of Eurasian peoples.

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The translators hope the edition will introduce Indian readers to Kyrgyzstan’s epic tradition and strengthen academic cooperation between the two countries.