More than the Metropolis, it is the Delhi University which is the real melting pot for various cultures, communities, ethnic groups and races not only from India, but also from several countries. Delhi University is a cultural hub where the students from across the world come into close contact with each other.  Their continued personal interaction transforms their personalities and attitude over a period of time.

This kind of amalgamation was particularly visible last week during the launch of the Foreign Students Association. The Association was formed with the objective of bringing closer to each other over 2,000 students from 42 countries studying at the Delhi University through a cultural exchange program called 'Confluence 2008'. The Association also aims at guiding the students through their difficulties.

It must have been quite an experience for a Somalian student to swing his head in tune while a Nepali crooned his country's song at the inaugural function. The foreign students were dressed in their vibrant national attires and opened up a window to their culture with their dance performances.

Elisa from Mozambique, who is a third-year student of Political Science at Miranda House, said, "After spending three years in the university, I feel a sense of belonging here."

The formation of the Association was announced by Anand Sharma, state minister for external affairs, in presence of the ambassadors of Jordan and Somalia and diplomats from South Africa, Iran, Afghanistan and Fiji.

''This is the first ever function for foreign students. This will help us take back not only Indianness but the cultures of other countries as well,'' said Hellen Dalali from Tanzania, who is now secretary of the seven member Foreign Students Association.

The association has been formed with the cooperation of the Delhi University Students' Union and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.  According to Amrita Bahri, the DUSU president, the Association is an independent body and is not affected by the changes in office bearers of the DUSU.

Cetin, a Turkish student pursuing MEd at the Centre of International Education, told that he had problems getting visa to study at the DU three years back. "Had FSA existed then, I would have taken my case to them. It would have saved a lot of the time and money I spent in coming here twice for the visa,'' he added.