French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent pilgrimage to the 700-year-old Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi serves as a powerful testament to the shared commitment of India and France towards fostering syncretism. Pankaj Saran, Convenor at NatStrat, a strategic affairs think tank, and an experienced diplomat, highlighted the significance of Macron’s visit as the sixth French Head of State invited as the Chief Guest for India’s Republic Day celebrations.
Fostering Integration At Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah
Saran emphasized that French president Macron’s visit conveyed a profound message to both French and Indian audiences. It underscored the belief that the future of the world lies in integration, peaceful coexistence, and celebrating diversity while maintaining independent identities and nationalities. Macron’s deliberate act of spending time at the shrine reflects a shared desire to promote such integration, especially considering that nearly five percent of the French population is of Muslim descent.
Syncretism In French Society
Saran shed light on the unique sensitivity of France, despite being a European country, to the concept of syncretic culture. He pointed out the influence of the Maghreb region on Sufism and syncretism, with a significant population from Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, etc., becoming integral to French life. This, he stated, aligns with India’s essence of being deeply multicultural.
Mutual Learning: India and France as Exemplars
Highlighting the complexity and diversity of both nations, Saran suggested that India can serve as an example to France, and vice versa, in building nations with such intricacies. He expressed optimism about exchanging experiences, cooperation, and setting positive examples for each other.
Foundation of Trust in Sensitive Areas
Saran commended the strong foundation of the India-France relationship, evolving through cooperation in sensitive technologies, defense, space, energy, and nuclear domains. Annual summits signify the special bond, showcasing the absence of serious differences between the two nations.
Strengthening Economic Bonds
Discussing trade ties, Saran urged for increased French investment in India to generate employment. He lauded the collaboration between NSIL and its French counterpart in the space sector, emphasizing the potential in digital technology and Artificial Intelligence.
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