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“Sándor Kőrösi Csoma (tibetologist and linguist, 1784-1842) served as a bridge between East and West, and we Hungarians also embody this bridge between cultures. This concept of a bridge signifies »understanding oneself and understanding one’s environment,« enhancing our ability to foster mutual understanding,” stated the Minister of Culture and Innovation during the inauguration of the Csoma Memorial Center and People’s School in Covasna (Kovászna), Romania.
Addressing the opening event of the 34th Csoma Days, coinciding with the 240th anniversary of Sándor Kőrösi Csoma’s birth, Minister János Csák celebrated Hungarian culture’s richness and the contributions of Hungarians as individuals, families, and communities. He emphasized that while the Csoma Memorial Center stands as a testament to these achievements, its true vitality lies in the depth of its content and the sense of community it fosters. “It will only come alive if it is filled with content and if a community is built. If as many people as possible who come here will create. If as much knowledge as possible radiates from this house, because those who possess knowledge will be stronger economically, stronger spiritually, stronger mentally,” he remarked.
Mr. Csák extended a warm welcome to József Gazda, honorary president of the Sándor Kőrösi Csoma Public Culture Association, recognizing his role as the driving force behind the center’s establishment. He underscored the collective effort that brought the center to fruition over three decades.
Csák emphasized that the strength of Hungarian culture lies in unity, stating:
When Hungarians are united and strong, Hungarian culture is nothing but ‘the fabric of our bonds.’ If these bonds are strong enough, they will form a strong culture, a resilient thread capable of withstanding any challenge.”
Reflecting on Csoma’s remarkable journey from south Szeklerland (Háromszék) to the Himalayas, Mr. Csák highlighted the tibetologist visionary outlook, linguistic expertise in 20 languages, and pioneering work in Tibetan studies. He reiterated the Hungarian government’s commitment to supporting Hungarian culture across the Carpathian Basin and beyond.
In his speech, József Gazda mentioned advocating for commemorations not only at Csoma’s grave in Darjeeling but also in his homeland as early as 1992. He emphasized the symbolic significance of the memorial center as a beacon of humanity and a regional attraction aimed at preserving Csoma’s legacy and transmitting the homeland’s glory to future generations.
Sándor Tamás, President of the Covasna County Municipality, praised Csoma as an enduring symbol of Transylvanian Szekler identity, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his roots and his lasting impact on Hungarian heritage.
Following presentations and blessings, including the Csoma Memorial Medal presentation to Minister Csák and the opening of the exhibition “A Map of Time Travel with Csoma,” the Csoma Center was officially inaugurated. The idea of establishing the Csoma Center emerged over 30 years ago with the intention of preserving Kőrösi Csoma’s legacy for future generations. Designed by Ybl Prize-winning architect Lőrinc Csernyus, the two-story facility includes exhibition halls, a conference room, offices, and five guest rooms. The Hungarian government has supported the construction works since 2020, with almost HUF 422M (EUR 1M) in subsidies provided by the local Reformed parish.
Via MTI; Featured Image: Wikipedia