Indian researchers emphasized the contribution of Nikolai Miklukho-Maklai to the rapprochement of cultures. Photo: RGS Center in Trivandrum
On the occasion of the 180th anniversary of the birth of the famous traveler, ethnographer, and anthropologist Nikolai Miklukho-Maklai, the Centers of the Russian Geographical Society in India and Australia held scientific, cultural, and educational events dedicated to his scientific heritage and contribution to the development of intercultural dialogue.
On July 19, the RGS Center in Trivandrum, the capital of the Indian state of Kerala, organized a scientific seminar «Nikolai Miklukho-Maklai: Bridging Cultures through Exploration and Ethnography». The participants discussed the scientist’s contribution to the development of ethnography and anthropology, noting that Miklukho-Maklai was one of the first to consistently speak out against racial prejudice of his time, defended the equality of all peoples, and called for the study of cultures with respect for their identity.
The researchers from the Central University of Kerala Binkumari Gopika and Paul Swaroop made presentations, and International Relations student Tirzah Rogi provided an overview of the biography and scientific path of the Russian scientist. A photo exhibition dedicated to his expeditions was also opened as part of the event.
On the same day, Sydney, Australia’s largest city, hosted a commemorative event entitled «Dialogue of the Times: From the Expeditions of Nikolai Miklukho-Maklai to the Present Day». The guests were welcomed by Shane Mortimer, a representative of the Aboriginal peoples of Australia, Ruslan Arutyunov, an adviser to the Russian Embassy in Australia, and Anastasia Rudenko, President of the RGS Center in Australia.
The central theme was the Australian period of Miklukho-Maklai’s life and his expedition to Papua New Guinea. The guests got acquainted with the exhibition of archival photographs and ethnographic objects from private collections of Australians, reflecting the culture of the peoples of Oceania. The event was particularly significant due to the participation of a delegation from Papua New Guinea itself, who shared modern approaches to preserving the cultural heritage of their people. The audience saw a documentary provided by the explorer’s great-great-grandson and full namesake Nikolai Miklukho-Maklai.
The anniversary events in India and Australia have once again confirmed that Nikolai Miklukho-Maklai’s scientific legacy continues to unite people from different countries. Thanks to the work of the RGS centers abroad, the memory of the outstanding Russian explorer, his discoveries and humanistic ideas remain an important part of the international scientific and cultural dialogue.