Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v2.c15.s2.t55.10

v2.c15.s2.t55.10

In 1936, Tan Yun-shan returned to India again with the funds raised and the books purchased. Tagore was overwhelmed by the Chinese response and a prime location was allocated for the construction of Cheena Bhavana that started the same year. The construction was completed in record time and was inaugurated on April 14, 1937, coinciding with the first day of the Bengali New Year - ‘*Nababarsho*’. Tagore presided over the unveiling ceremony in person and delivered a historic speech. Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru wrote letters to congratulate the founding of Cheena Bhavana and expressed regret for not being able to attend the unveiling ceremony. After learning of the formal unveiling of Cheena Bhavana, Chiang Kai-shek sent a telegram of congratulations to Tagore. Cai Yuanpei, Dai Jitao and Chen Daqi also jointly sent a congratulatory telegram. After the founding of the Cheena Bhavana, Tan Yun-shan became the president of the institute and also gave lectures there. Over the years, Cheena Bhavana saw the arrival of many scholars of Buddhism, Chinese Literature and Philosophy, from China and Thailand who made it their home as they engaged in in-depth study and discourse.