As India and China engage in cautious diplomatic talks to mend ties strained since the 2020 Galwan clashes, a forgotten piece of history has surfaced, offering a poignant echo of a more harmonious past. A rare poem penned by China's first ambassador to independent India, celebrating the nation's freedom struggle, has been discovered in the archives of the Madhya Pradesh government.
A Poetic Ode to Freedom from 1947
The evocative document is a poem titled "Chant for Indian Freedom" written by Luo Jialun, also known as Lo Chia-Luen. It was published remarkably just five days after India's Independence, on August 20, 1947. The poem appeared in Jayaji Pratap, a government-run newspaper published from Gwalior in both Hindi and English, which was earlier known as 'Akhbar Gwalior'.
In his lyrical tribute, Ambassador Luo Jialun hailed India's struggle as a "Himalayan Dream". He described a movement that began as a gentle wave but ultimately made the entire Indian Ocean roll, celebrating it as a global miracle achieved without war. According to experts, this heartfelt composition was most likely translated from Chinese for publication.
A Timely Discovery for Modern Diplomacy
The poem's discovery comes at a critical juncture. Both nations are currently exploring a diplomatic reset, holding discussions on reviving border trade and planning to resume direct flights by 2026. This historical artifact serves as a powerful reminder of the foundational goodwill that once existed.
Noted archaeologist and pre-Independence records expert S Nayeemuddin, who highlighted the document's significance, believes it holds profound contemporary relevance. He stated that this single document is enough to warm hearts across borders and inspire a fresh beginning. Nayeemuddin poetically suggested it could serve as "the opening note for the dragon and the elephant to dance together" once more.
Could History Pave the Path Forward?
The unearthing of this poetic gem from the archives in Bhopal provides more than just a historical curiosity. It offers a symbolic touchstone for current diplomatic efforts. As officials navigate complex border and trade issues, this 1947 poem underscores a shared moment of celebration and respect from the very dawn of India's independence.
The document stands as a testament to an era when Chinese leadership viewed India's freedom as a monumental, peaceful achievement. Integrating this symbolic gesture into the narrative of present-day talks could add a layer of cultural and historical depth to the pragmatic discussions on trade and travel, potentially fostering a more congenial atmosphere for reconciliation.
