India Foundation’s Center
for Soft Power hosted a collaborative discussion on the theme “From Soft Power
influence to Economic & Political gains: India’s engagement with Brazil and
the South American region”. The main speakers of the event were Mr. Shobhan
Saxena, President of Indian Association of Brazil & Co-Founder, Bloco
Bollywood and Ms. Florencia Costa, Journalist & Cultural Curator,
Co-Founder, Bloco Bollywood. The round table was attended by numerous esteemed
guests.
Speaking on the topic Mr.
Saxena said “Bloco Bollywood is the most important Indian street carnival. It
is a great hit among the locals. It uplifts India’s image in Brazil.” He also
said “Through the carnival many sterotyped Information and Knowledge about
India is removed.”
Ms. Costa explained how
Yoga, Meditation, Indian Cuisine and Ayurveda as India’s great Soft Power
Ambassadors in Brazil. She explained about the Mahatma Gandhi Carnival in the
city of Salvador and how the peace principles of Mahatma influence the people
of Brazil.
Both Mr. Saxena and Ms.
Costa said “Culture Connects Countries.” The event ended with a discussion
among the speakers and the guests.
