About India and the PNU Indian Community

 

India, officially the Republic of India, is a timeless land where ancient civilization meets modern innovation. Located in South Asia, it is bordered by Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, with the Indian Ocean to the south. With a total area of 3.28 million square kilometers, India is the 7th largest country in the world and home to over 1.4 billion people, making it the most populous democracy in the world.

India's landscape is as diverse as its people—ranging from the towering Himalayas in the north to the coastal plains of the south, the dense forests of the northeast to the arid deserts of the west. Its climate, culture, language, food, and customs vary dramatically from region to region, making India a continent within a country.

 

A Civilizational Giant

 

India is one of the world’s oldest continuous civilizations, with a history spanning more than 5,000 years. It gave the world zero, yoga, Ayurveda, and chess, and is the birthplace of four major world religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. From the majestic architecture of the Taj Mahal to the philosophical depth of the Bhagavad Gita, India has long inspired thinkers, travelers, artists, and leaders around the globe.

India became a sovereign republic in 1950, following a long and inspiring nonviolent independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and other visionary leaders. Its national identity is built on the foundational principle of "Unity in Diversity", with 22 official languages, hundreds of dialects, and a mosaic of ethnicities and beliefs coexisting in harmony.

 

A Culture That Celebrates Life

 

India is a land of festivals, color, and celebration. Whether it’s the lights of Diwali, the colors of Holi, the devotion of Pongal, the patriotism of Republic Day, or the grace of Eid, India celebrates togetherness in diversity. Its cuisine is equally vibrant—ranging from spicy street food to regionally unique curries, rice dishes, sweets, and vegetarian delicacies, reflecting the diversity of its culture.

Indians are known worldwide for their hospitality, resilience, hard work, and warmth. The spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava ("The guest is God") continues to define the Indian way of life.

 

Indian Community at Pusan National University

 

The PNU Indian Community is a vibrant, growing family of researchers, scholars, undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and alumni from across India. Representing states like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Kerala, Delhi, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and more—we are a miniature version of India at PNU.

We take pride in sharing India’s spirit through cultural celebrations, academic exchange, community support, and cross-cultural dialogue. From organizing festivals like Diwali and Pongal to hosting workshops, sports events, and mentoring sessions, we aim to build bridges between India and the global community at PNU.

Our community is built on the values of mutual respect, inclusiveness, cultural pride, and academic excellence. We welcome all new students with open arms and are committed to making their stay in Korea enriching, enjoyable, and memorable.

 

Welcome in the Languages of India

 

We welcome you with love and joy, from every corner of our diverse homeland:

• Hindi: स्वागत है!

• Tamil: வரவேற்கிறோம்!

• Telugu: స్వాగతం!

• Malayalam: സ്വാഗതം!

• Kannada: ಸ್ವಾಗತ!

• Punjabi: ਜੀ ਆਇਆਂ ਨੂੰ!

• Gujarati: સ્વાગત છે!

• Marathi: स्वागत आहे!

• Bengali: স্বাগতম!

• Urdu: خوش آمدید!

“वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्” – The world is one family

*“எல்லா ஜீவங்களும் ஒன்றே” – All living beings are one (Tamil proverb)”

 

What We Do

 

The PNU Indian Community is led by a President and a core organizing team, and functions through several sub-teams:

• Cultural & Events Team – Organizes festivals, get-togethers, and celebrations.

• Information & Outreach Team – Supports new students, shares updates, and connects with other communities.

• Media & Communication Team – Maintains digital presence and creates visual content.

• Welfare & Support Team – Offers emotional, academic, and practical support.

• Finance & Operations Team – Manages funds and operational logistics.

 

Whether you're a prospective student, a new arrival, or an alumnus, you are part of a strong, supportive, and diverse family here at Pusan National University. Join us to experience the best of India, while building a future of global connection and collaboration.