Beirut: Under the auspices of Minister of Culture Ghassan Salam© and in partnership with the Indian Embassy in Lebanon, the Gibran National Committee inaugurated the first sculpture in the “Garden of the Greats.” This sculpture honors Rabindranath Tagore, the renowned thinker, artist, and poet of nature and freedom. The event was graced by the presence of Indian Ambassador Nour Rahman Sheikh and his spouse, along with embassy staff. Also in attendance were representatives of various Lebanese governmental and cultural bodies, including former MP Joseph Ishaq, Elie Makhlouf, Dr. Fadi Rahme, and other dignitaries and interested parties.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the ceremony began with a guided tour of the Gibran Museum, where museum director Joseph Geagea provided insights into Gibran’s works and thoughts. This was followed by a gathering at Mary Haskell Square, where the national anthem was played. The museum director highlighted the intellectual connection between Gibran and Tagore, recounting an inspiring meeting between the two in New York in 1921. This encounter significantly influenced Gibran, leading him to paint a portrait of Tagore and inscribe words that honored his presence.
Indian Ambassador Nour Rahman Sheikh spoke about the shared values and mutual respect between Tagore and Gibran. He noted the global impact of their works, emphasizing how Gibran’s books, such as “The Prophet” and “The Madman,” have been translated into multiple Indian languages and continue to influence discussions about Tagore. The ambassador also read a passage from “The Prophet” and highlighted the shared commitment of both poets to diversity, tolerance, and freedom.
Dr. Fadi Rahme, head of the Gibran National Committee, expressed pride in hosting the event, which underscores the deep spiritual and cultural bonds between Gibran and Tagore. He reflected on their shared vision as visionaries from nations under foreign influence, united by their literary and philosophical contributions to the world.
Minister Salam© expressed gratitude to the Gibran Committee and the Indian ambassador for fostering this cultural exchange. He pondered the enduring mystery of Gibran’s influence, which transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, and celebrated the convergence of Eastern and Western philosophies as embodied in Gibran and Tagore’s works.
Following the unveiling of the sculpture, attendees enjoyed a cocktail reception to mark the occasion. Earlier, Minister Salam© visited the Monastery of Saint Elisha in the Qadisha Valley, accompanied by local dignitaries. The visit highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the valley, with Father Joseph Musallam providing insights into its rich heritage.
MP Joseph Ishaq, representing MP Strida Geagea, welcomed the minister and emphasized the importance of cultural heritage preservation efforts. The visit underscored the importance of supporting local projects aimed at preserving the region’s cultural and historical legacy.