INDIEN-INSTITUT IN MUNICH
The Indien-Institut is the oldest organisation of its kind in Germany and has devoted itself to the cultural exchange between Germany and India. The society was established in 1929 as the Insitute for Cultural Relations/Indischer Ausschuss bei der Deutschen Akademie and was located in the Maximilianeum in Munich. Activities came to a halt during the war but resumed in 1946. Since 1960, the organisation has been led under a new legal form as the Indien-Institut e.V. Today, the institute stands in close relations to the indian consulate general.
REVIEW: INTERCULTURAL COOPERATION AT THE SEIDLVILLA
On 11 February 2026, the Seidlvilla once again hosted an evening event on intercultural cooperation.
Prof. Dr. Simone Rappel highlighted the different ways collaboration is shaped in India and Germany. While Germany tends to prioritise a fact‑based approach, numbers, data and structures, interpersonal relationships take centre stage in India. Trust, personal contact and respectful interaction play a decisive role in working together.
She also emphasised that a “yes” in the Indian context does not necessarily signal agreement. It often expresses politeness or a willingness to continue the conversation. Understanding these nuances helps avoid misunderstandings and leads to more accurate assessments in communication.
The Indien-Institut in Munich perceives itself as a mediator:
- – Between the two countries and its people
- – Their cultures
- – Their future development
The Indien-Institut in Munich is a panel for:
- – Lectures and dicussions
- – Events on history, religion, art and culture
- – Traditional and contemporary music and dance performances
- – Information on politics, economy and science
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