India Peace Centre Nagpur: Promoting Harmony Through Dialogue

thenewsdirt
Feb 25
4 min read

India Peace Centre in Nagpur (Photo Credit: India Peace Centre)

In the heart of Nagpur, amidst the everyday hustle, lies a place quietly fostering conversations that many shy away from.

The India Peace Centre (IPC), since its inception, has become a place where differences meet to find common ground.

Its presence in the central region of India isn’t merely geographical, it symbolises a space that brings together diverse voices, all committed to a common goal of peaceful coexistence.

What makes IPC stand out isn’t grand gestures or loud declarations, but its focus on building understanding through dialogue, education, and community-driven initiatives.

Roots of a Quiet Revolution

Established in 1988 by Dr. Mathai Zachariah, the former General Secretary of the National Council of Churches in India, the India Peace Centre was envisioned as a platform to bridge gaps between different communities.

Unlike organisations that focus on reactive measures, IPC has consistently emphasised proactive engagement. Its foundation rests on the belief that open conversations can address the most complex of societal issues.

Over the decades, the Centre has expanded its work beyond its initial religious roots, embracing cultural, environmental, and social themes that affect everyday lives.

The Centre’s physical space on C.K. Naidu Road isn’t extravagant, however, it has hosted countless visitors, from students and academics to international delegates and local community members, all drawn by the common thread of seeking solutions through dialogue.

IPC’s commitment to neutrality has made it a trusted venue for interfaith discussions, fostering an atmosphere where varied perspectives can be shared without apprehension.

Programs That Speak Louder Than Words

India Peace Centre Programs (Photo Credit: India Peace Centre)

What sets the India Peace Centre apart is the sheer variety of initiatives it undertakes. These aren’t one-time events but sustained efforts aimed at nurturing awareness and fostering cooperation.

The “Coffee and Peace” series is one such initiative that embodies the Centre’s ethos. On the surface, it might seem like just another community gathering, but these sessions serve as powerful platforms where participants explore subjects ranging from literature to contemporary global issues.

Discussions unfold naturally, accompanied by music, art, and thoughtful exchanges.

This informal setup has attracted individuals from different walks of life, be it young students eager to learn or senior citizens sharing their lived experiences.

Without the confines of a formal conference room, dialogues here take on a more personal, introspective tone, creating lasting impressions beyond the conversation.

Youth engagement forms the cornerstone of IPC’s outreach strategy. Recognising that future leaders must be equipped with the right tools for peaceful conflict resolution, the Centre runs the “School of Peace” programme.

This training isn’t limited to theoretical knowledge, instead, it involves participants in practical exercises that highlight the importance of understanding cultural nuances, embracing religious diversity, and addressing environmental concerns.

Recent editions of the programme have seen participation from various regions, including Bhubaneswar, Ahmedabad, and Aizawl. Participants often speak of how the immersive sessions challenge preconceived notions and offer new perspectives on issues they thought they understood.

In January 2025, the Centre hosted a significant 50-day interfaith training programme, drawing participants from countries such as Indonesia, Nepal, East Timor, and the Philippines.

Through shared experiences and discussions, the attendees explored faith practices that were previously unfamiliar to them.

This cross-cultural exchange underscored the importance of firsthand interaction in breaking down stereotypes.

Education Beyond Classrooms

IPC’s educational outreach isn’t confined to young adults. The Centre collaborates with schools, colleges, and local organisations to spread awareness on pressing social issues.

In one such collaboration with Manipur Creative School, a three-day workshop was conducted to impart life skills, ranging from critical thinking to effective communication.

These programmes go beyond textbook learning, equipping participants with practical knowledge that serves them well in their daily interactions.

Equally notable is the Centre’s support for marginalised communities. IPC’s involvement in the Orange City LGBT Pride March highlighted its commitment to inclusivity.

By providing a platform for conversations around gender and sexuality, the Centre helps dismantle prejudices that often go unchallenged in mainstream spaces.

Engaging Communities for a Shared Purpose

While many organisations focus on large-scale campaigns, IPC places significant emphasis on community-driven efforts. Its World Peace Day celebrations are a testament to this approach.

On September 21, 2023, despite weather challenges, the Centre hosted an event featuring poetry recitals, musical performances, and discussions that drew diverse participants. Events like these aren’t just symbolic; they serve as reminders of the Centre’s commitment to fostering connections that transcend superficial differences.

Environmental sustainability is another area where the Centre actively engages local communities. IPC has consistently advocated for responsible energy use and ecological balance.

By hosting seminars and workshops, it encourages participants to reflect on their roles in environmental conservation.

Rather than presenting solutions in isolation, the Centre facilitates discussions that lead to community-driven initiatives, be it tree planting drives or campaigns promoting sustainable living.

Over the years, IPC’s efforts have extended beyond Nagpur, making its presence felt on international platforms.

Collaborations with global organisations like the Asia-Pacific Alliance of YMCAs have allowed it to host programmes that attract participants from various cultural and religious backgrounds. These global connections reinforce the Centre’s core belief, peace isn’t confined to local contexts, it thrives when nurtured across borders.

What makes the India Peace Centre’s work noteworthy is its consistency. Amidst changing social climates and shifting global priorities, the Centre has stayed true to its mission without becoming stagnant.

Its ability to adapt, while keeping dialogue and understanding at the heart of its initiatives, ensures its relevance across generations.