A FAREWELL MESSAGE FROM H.E. MR. HEMANT HARISHCHANDRA KOTALWAR, AMBASSADOR OF INDIA
As I bid farewell to the enchanting Land of a Thousand Spires, my thoughts meander back to the days when my family and I first set foot in this historically rich country, amid the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. Strolling through the deserted streets of Prague, we were treated to a visual feast of the city’s exquisite architecture. Every twist and turn revealed scenes reminiscent of picture postcards, captivating our senses with an undeniable charm. It was only natural that I found myself enamoured with this Bohemian haven. As the country emerged from the shadows of lockdowns, I soon discovered an array of surprises awaiting me, adding an extra layer of wonder to this remarkable journey.
My first visit beyond Prague holds a special place in my heart – a visit to Komárovice, a charming village nestled in Moravia, home to a mere 100 residents. What truly captured my attention was the mayor’s office, boasting a room dedicated exclusively to India. Engaging with the villagers, I could feel the profound respect they held for the distinguished resident of Komárovice, Professor Vincenc Lesný. Hailing from this very village, Professor Lesný made a lasting impact by closely collaborating with prominent Indian national figures. His associations extended to working alongside
Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhash Chandra Bose. From 1920 onward, spanning more than two decades, Professor Lesný played a pivotal role as a key point of contact for Indian leaders journeying through Europe.
As an Indian diplomat familiar with foreign policy discussions typically cantered in the national capital, my time in the Czech Republic was truly inconceivable. The idea that a modest village would not only take pride in one of its residents, an academic, but also value his noteworthy collaborations with India, surpassed the boundaries of my wildest imagination. Throughout my stay in this country, I came to realize that my experience in Komárovice was not an isolated incident. Similar enthusiasm and energy resonated in every town and village across Czechia. The nation, indeed, opened my eyes and fostered an appreciation not only for the quality of education, but also for nurturing universal and moral values amongst its citizens.
Representing India in this beautiful country with a historic connection was indeed a humbling experience. Working with the brightest minds – from politicians to bureaucrats, academics to scientists, industry leaders to entrepreneurs, and journalists to artists – not only helped me appreciate our longstanding relations but also motivated me to further strengthen and enhance bilateral ties. As an Indian Ambassador, there can be no greater gift than witnessing the everyday momentum in our bilateral relations. Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to Eva and Mesh for offering a distinctive platform such as the Czech & Slovak Leaders magazine, which allows diplomats like me to share our perspectives.