India International Centre

The India International Centre was established with a clear purpose: to encourage understanding and goodwill among people and cultures. Its charter defines this mission as promoting harmony between communities worldwide, positioning India as a place where dialogue can flourish in an atmosphere of openness and respect. The idea for the Centre emerged in 1958 based on discussions between Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (then Vice-President of India) and John D. Rockefeller III. The foundation stone of the complex was laid on 30 November 1960, and the building was inaugurated on 22 January 1962 by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, then President of India.

The center’s activities reflect values of liberal humanism and public service. Its calendar includes lectures, seminars, panel discussions, national and international conferences, and cultural events across music, cinema, and the performing and visual arts, encompassing both classical and folk traditions. These programs are organized through three core divisions—the Programs Division, the Library, and the Publications Division—which function together to support research, discussion, and cultural presentation.

All activities are non-commercial and open to the wider public, making the center accessible beyond its membership. Alongside its intellectual and cultural role, the IIC is known for its hospitality. Its residential rooms, gardens, tea lounge, and common spaces create an environment designed for reflection, conversation, and informal exchange.

Located beside the Lodi Gardens, the Centre offers a distinct pace within the city—an atmosphere shaped by greenery, quiet spaces, and thoughtful programming. It continues to serve as a meeting ground for scholars, artists, policymakers, and the public, sustaining a tradition of dialogue across disciplines and cultures.