Unearthing Global Connections: A University’s Celebration Weaves Together History, Heritage, and Hope

This week, the Central University of Himachal Pradesh became a vibrant hub of discovery, proving that a story that begins with a Greek conqueror and an Indian king can find a thrilling new chapter right here in the hills. The occasion was World Tourism Day 2025, and the air was electric with more than just ceremony; it was filled with a sense of connection to a vast, shared human history.

The week-long celebration, kicked off with a traditional lamp lighting, saw students and faculty gathered not just to learn, but to listen. The star of the event was Greek archaeologist George Antonio, who shared a breathtaking discovery that feels almost like a historical detective story. He spoke of a rare Roman mosaic found far away in Portugal, which vividly depicts the Battle of the Hydaspes between Alexander the Great and the mighty King Porus (Maharaja Parmaanand Chand).

But for Antonio, this mosaic is more than ancient art. “This isn’t just about a battle,” he explained, his passion palpable. “It’s a hidden thread tying Greece, Portugal, and our very own Himachal Pradesh together. It shows us that our local history has always been a part of a global conversation.” He urged students to see cultural tourism as a way to bridge time, connecting our present with these profound echoes from the past.

The audience was captivated. “Seeing the story of Porus and Alexander on a mosaic in Portugal… it stops being just a chapter in a book,” shared Dean Prof. Roshan Lal. “It suddenly feels personal, a point of pride that connects us to the world.”

Adding a deeply local perspective was Maharaja Aishwarya Katoch, whose family’s lineage is woven into the fabric of this region. He spoke of the journey from ancient pilgrimage routes to modern tourism, emphasizing how heritage can be a living, breathing source of opportunity and growth, provided we protect it.

The discussions weren’t confined to lecture halls. Inspired by the day’s themes of responsibility, students and faculty rolled up their sleeves for a cleanliness drive at a local reservoir, turning words into action. The week ahead promises more hands-on learning, from heritage walks to workshops on sustainable living.

Ultimately, the event was a powerful reminder of the university’s mission: to educate not just skilled professionals, but thoughtful citizens. It was a celebration of how a single archaeological find can ignite curiosity, foster pride, and inspire a new generation to see tourism as a force for preserving our shared stories and protecting our common home.