The second India-Nepal Cultural Festival, organized by the Embassy of India in collaboration with the Lumbini Development Trust and Lumbini Buddhist University, showcased the enduring cultural ties between the two nations. Centered on Buddhism, the festival celebrated the rich cultural heritage and traditions of both countries.

The festival was inaugurated jointly by Krishna Bahadur Gharti Magar, Governor of Lumbini Province; Prachanda Bikram Nyaupane, Minister for Industry, Tourism, and Transport; Janmajaya Timilsina, Minister for Social Development; Dr. Lharkyal Lama, Vice-Chairman of the Lumbini Development Trust; and Prasanna Srivastava, Deputy Chief of the Indian Embassy. The event was attended by provincial assembly members, the mayor of Butwal Sub-metropolitan City, senior officials from the district administration, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, members of civil society, and revered Buddhist monks.

In the evening, renowned artists from India and Nepal delivered mesmerizing performances. A Kathak dance troupe led by India’s Shikha Sharma presented a captivating performance inspired by Buddhist themes, leaving the audience spellbound. Meanwhile, Nepalese artist Swajan Raghuvanshi and his team brought vibrancy to the festival with traditional Nepali dance.

As part of the festival, an academic seminar was hosted at Lumbini Buddhist University on the theme "Buddhist Cultural Heritage of India and Nepal." Eminent Buddhist scholars from both nations shared their insights on the historical and cultural significance of their shared heritage. Additionally, the Kathak troupe engaged with students of Shri Ramnaresh Yadav Adarsha Model Secondary School in Rohini-3, Rupandehi, introducing them to Indian classical dance.

This festival has further strengthened the cultural ties between Nepal and India, fostering closer people-to-people connections. The organizers stated, "This festival symbolizes the deep-rooted friendship between our two nations, paving the way for enhanced cultural exchange and a new chapter of camaraderie."

The next segment of the festival is set to take place in Kathmandu. The celebration in Lumbini has made a significant contribution to preserving and promoting cultural heritage, instilling a sense of pride among the people of both nations in their shared traditions.