From Jerusalem to Haifa, an Israel journey shaped by memory and meaning

An art and culture delegation from India was invited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Israel.

- MURTAZA ALI KHAN

Prof. (Dr.) K. G, Suresh—Director of the India Habitat Centre, former Director General of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), and former Vice Chancellor of Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism & Communication—recently returned from a significant multi-city visit to Israel. As part of a distinguished art and culture delegation from India invited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Government of Israel, Prof. Suresh participated in a series of immersive experiences blending history, diplomacy, culture, and human memory.

In an exclusive conversation with The Sunday Guardian, he reflects on the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions of the journey.

The visit was aimed at strengthening people to people relations, particularly in the film and cultural space, between the two ancient nations. “I was part of a delegation associated with cinema and culture and there's immense scope for collaboration between the two nations. We have so much in common, from democracy to civilizational challenges that we face.”

He participated in the internationally attended Jerusalem Sessions. Prof. Suresh describes it as “an extraordinary platform for cross-cultural dialogue.”

“These sessions brought together filmmakers, scholars, journalists, and thought leaders from around the world,” he tells. “We spoke not only about the craft of storytelling but also the responsibilities we carry as communicators ina polarized global landscape. It was a reminder that narratives shape nations—and sometimes even save them.”

He emphasizes that the Indian delegation’s participation was widely appreciated and added depth to discussions on media ethics, cultural diplomacy, and global peace narratives.