Inauguration of Nehru-Wangchuck Cultural Centre The Embassy of India in Thimphu, in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Government of India, has opened its Cultural Wing, entitled “Nehru-Wangchuck Cultural Centre” at Thimphu. The Centre was jointly inaugurated by H.E. Dr. Karan Singh, President, ICCR and H.E. Lyonpo Minjur Dorji, Minister for Home and Cultural Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan on Tuesday, 21st September 2010. The inauguration of the Nehru-Wangchuck Cultural Centre is another landmark event in the journey of our exceptionally close and cordial bilateral relations. It will further expand and add a new dimension to India-Bhutan relations. The Centre will carry out regular cultural and artistic programmes, and will provide a platform for both Bhutanese and Indian artists to interact and showcase their talents. It will also hold regular yoga and music classes. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Karan Singh highlighted the close cultural, geographical, historical, political and economic ties between Indian and Bhutan which have always been a source of strength to both countries. Praising the achievements of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan who brought democracy to Bhutan by adopting a new constitution, Dr Karan Singh said that this was a unique instance of the monarchy spearheading the transition to the democracy. He also paid high tribute to the present King His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck for steering the ship of state in Bhutan so ably. The inauguration was followed by a cultural programme for which classical Kathak dance was performed by the well known dancer Sharmishtha Mukherjee, and thereafter, a photographic exhibition entitled 'Buddhism in India' by the renowned photographer Sondeep Shankar was opened by Dr. Karan Singh and Lyonpo Minjur Dorji.