Solapur is the hometown of Dr. Dwarkanath Shantaram Kotnis
Following age-old tradition alive and giving prominence to Dr. Dwarkanath Shantaram Kotnis, newly appointed Consul General of China in Mumbai His Excellency Kong Xianhua visited Solapur. He paid his tribute to Dr. Kotnis at his memorial in Solapur. The event was held on August 17, 2022 in Solapur, hometown of Dr. Kotnis. It may be noted that Dr. Kotnis was one of the five Indian physicians dispatched to China to provide medical assistance during the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1938. Dwarakanath Kotnis, also known by his Chinese name Ke Dihua. It may be noted that Dr. Dwarkanath Kotnis commands high respect and honour in China, known for his dedication and perseverance, he has been regarded as an example for Sino-Indian friendship and collaboration. Every new incumbent China Consul General appointed in Mumbai, as a tradition and ritual they always ensure visiting Solapur to pay tribute to Dr. Kotnis.
To begin with his visit, Consul General of China in Mumbai His Excellency Kong Xianhua made a visit to Dr. Kotnis’s memorial. He placed a wreath in his memory and respect. Thereafter, he watched the memorial video and the photos introducing Dr. Kotnis’ life and cause in China. He read carefully the elegy Chairman Mao Zedong wrote for Dr. Kotnis. In a memorial book maintained at Dr. Kotnis memorial hall, CG wrote cordial comments in it. He mentioned in memorial book “Dr. Kotnis is a true friend of China. His spirit is always inspiring us. Long live China-India friendship”.
CG of China in Mumbai H.E Kong Xianhua placing wreath at Dr. Kotnis Memorial in Solapur
After completing his rituals at Dr. Kotnis Memorial, a joint press conference was organized. In his media interaction, CG Kong emphasized that Dr. Kotnis is a great friend of China and a symbol of China-India friendship struggling for national independence and rejuvenation. He assured that as a new Chinese Consul General in Mumbai, he will inherit and carry forward Dr. Kotnis’ spirit together with Indian friends, promote exchanges and cooperation between the consular district and China. He also assured to make due contribution to the understanding and friendship between the Chinese and Indian people.
After the visit to Dr. Kotnis Memorial Hall, CG Kong met Manish Kalje, Representative of Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde in Solapur. CG also met Municipal Commissioner of Solapur, P.Sivasankar, IAS. CG shared pleasantries and exchanged views on promoting cooperation between Solapur and China.
As it was an important mission, a team of leading diplomats from the China consulate also accompanied CG. The visiting team included Commercial Counsellor Liu Mingming and other diplomats from the Consulate office.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
