Delhi has been a site of cultural exchange from a period that dates back to around thirteenth century A.D. when Turkish rulers established their reign over the city. Today, the city is home to a wonderful set of international cultural centres, each of which brings a slice of a different part of the world. We list here a variety of such centres:
Instituto de Cervantes
This institute offers an array of programs for promoting between Spanish speaking countries and India. Their cultural programs cover topics from literature, thought, science and technology. They have organised exhibitions of imminent painters like Picasso and Goya, well known photographers like Gabriela Iturbide and Manuel Alvarez Bravo. Of course, they too provide Spanish language courses.
Where: 48, Hanuman Road, Connaught Place
Nearest Metro: Rajiv Chowk
Goethe Institut – Max Mueller Bhavan
It is the centre for cultural exchanges between Germany and South Asia. This institute is well known for the German language courses that it offers. These include regular classes that may run throughout the week or special weekend classes and customized short classes for corporate groups. They also organise photo exhibitions every now and then. Do check out their online library catalogue and online DVD and video catalogue.
Where: Kasturba Gandhi Marg
Nearest Metro: Mandi House/Barakhamba station
Korean Cultural Centre
This is a vibrant centre established for deepening ties between India and South Korea. They organise a series of events and programs ranging from traditional performances (both Indian and Korean), screening of films like ‘The Doll Master’, ‘Face Reader’, and ‘Death Bell’; art exhibitions and food festivals! Besides offering language courses, they also provide training in Taekwondo.
Where: A 25, Lajpat Nagar IV
Nearest Metro: Moolchand Station
American Centre
This centre has an amazing library which is well stocked not only with books but also movies! Set up for strengthening ties between America and India this centre organises different programs like screening films, English plays, and art exhibitions. Periodically they even arrange for interactive sessions with American diplomats for an Indian audience.
Where: Kasturba Gandhi Marg
Nearest Metro: Barakhamba Metro Station
Alliance Francaise
If you want to experience a bit of Paris in Delhi, this is the centre for you. Besides offering language courses they host events like lectures, film screenings and performances (both theater and music), art and photo exhibitions. If you are one of those people who find plants captivating, you’ll be very happy to know that the four storeyed building which houses this centre is also home to a botanical garden which goes by the name Le Jardin Botanique. Over 60 species of plants are found here, some of which include Calabash trees and Champa.
Where: 72, K.K. Birla Marg, Lodi Estate
Nearest Metro: Khan Market/Jor Bagh station
