SAARC Special Lecture (Virtual Mode) titled Understanding South Asia: The Impact of Culture on People-to-People Relations was held on (Tuesday), 29th October 2024, 3:00 pm (Sri Lanka Standard Time) at the SAARC Cultural Centre (SCC), Sri Lanka. The speaker of the SAARC Special Lecture Series was Dr. Pramod Jaiswal, Research Director at the Nepal Institute for International Cooperation and Engagement (NIICE). The lecture was an attempt to understand South Asia through culture. The South Asian region, comprising nations with shared histories, diverse cultures, and intricate social fabrics, offers a rich tapestry for understanding the profound impact of culture on regional cooperation. This lecture explored how cultural interactions—encompassing language, religion, art, and shared heritage—have influenced relationships among South Asian nations and created a foundation for regional cooperation. By examining case studies of cross-border festivals, cultural exchange programs, and social media interactions, the speaker underscored the role of cultural diplomacy in enhancing mutual understanding and building trust among the people of South Asia.