New Delhi, July 31, 2025 – The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) recently hosted a two-day national symposium to mark the inscription of the Bhagwad Gita and Bharatamuni’s Natyashastra in the prestigious UNESCO Memory of the World International Register. The inaugural session, held on July 30, at the Ambedkar International Centre, brought together prominent cultural figures, scholars, and government officials, celebrating these ancient texts as symbols of India’s profound intellectual and spiritual heritage.
The symposium’s theme, “Timeless Texts and Universal Teachings: Inscription of the Bhagwad Gita and Natyashastra in the UNESCO Memory of the World International Register,” highlighted the global significance of these foundational Indian scriptures. The event featured an esteemed panel of guests, including Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture and Tourism, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Padma Bhushan Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, President of the IGNCA Trust, presided over the session, while Swami Gyananand Ji Maharaj and Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh delivered insightful addresses, emphasizing the spiritual and cultural importance of these texts.
Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat opened his remarks by noting, “Undoubtedly, the knowledge of the Bhagwad Gita dates back over 5,000 years, and Bharatamuni’s Natyashastra over 2,500 years. Many nations today, which claim global influence and post on social media as torchbearers of civilization, perhaps did not even exist back then. And yet, in that ancient era, India had already articulated a nuanced and detailed treatise on the performing arts.” He further stressed the importance of the Bhagwad Gita‘s inscription in the UNESCO register as a validation of its universal message of wisdom, calling it “not only apt but essential.”
The inclusion of these two texts in the UNESCO register is seen as a major achievement, particularly in the context of India’s long and storied history of philosophical and artistic contributions. Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, highlighted the role of the institution in securing this recognition, acknowledging the hard work of the scholars involved in meticulously preparing the nomination dossiers for both texts.
Swami Gyananand Ji Maharaj drew a unique parallel between the digital age and the Bhagwad Gita, saying, “If we remove the first two letters ‘D’ and ‘I’ and the last letter ‘L’ from the word ‘DIGITAL’, what remains is ‘GITA’. When the Bhagwad Gita resides in the heart, even technology finds the right direction.” He emphasized that the Gita’s teachings offer a blueprint for navigating the complexities of today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, advocating for a balanced approach to familial, societal, and individual responsibilities.
Dr. Sonal Mansingh, a renowned cultural icon, eloquently connected the Gita’s message of nishkama karma (selfless action) to the artistic discipline outlined in the Natyashastra. Both texts, she noted, view action as a form of spiritual practice, whether it be in the performance of one’s duty or in artistic expression. “In both the Gita and the Natyashastra, we find the wisdom of dedicating one’s actions to a higher cause, fostering harmony within oneself and the world around,” Dr. Mansingh observed.
Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, highlighting the broader cultural significance, stated that the inscription of the Bhagwad Gita and Natyashastra in the UNESCO register is not a ceremonial honor but marks the beginning of a global cultural journey. “This event signifies a journey that can guide humanity toward dharma, democracy, and self-awareness,” he noted. He further emphasized that Krishna’s teachings and Bharatamuni’s vision in the Natyashastra continue to resonate as beacons of wisdom for contemporary societies worldwide.
The symposium also saw the release of a book titled ‘From Manuscript to Memory,’ which reflects on the archival and cultural significance of these inscriptions. An exhibition showcasing rare manuscripts, historical records, and curatorial interpretations of the Bhagwad Gita and Natyashastra was inaugurated, offering attendees a glimpse into the profound legacy of these ancient texts.
In the final address of the inaugural session, Prof. Ramesh Chandra Gaur, Dean of Administration at IGNCA, noted, “The inscription of these texts is not merely a moment of celebration, but a historic affirmation of India’s civilisational knowledge systems on a global platform.” This affirmation, he continued, underscores the importance of safeguarding India’s documentary heritage for future generations.
Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi emphasized that this recognition by UNESCO is not only an endorsement of India’s cultural and intellectual heritage but also an opportunity for the younger generation to reconnect with their roots. “We must now celebrate and take pride in our rich inheritance, as these texts continue to shape and influence the world,” he remarked.
As part of the symposium, the IGNCA aims to bring together scholars, cultural thinkers, and heritage professionals to reflect on the timeless wisdom of the Bhagwad Gita and Natyashastra, reaffirming their relevance in today’s global discourse. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mayank Shekhar.
This historic recognition of the Bhagwad Gita and Natyashastra marks a significant milestone in the global acknowledgment of India’s philosophical, spiritual, and artistic contributions. Through this symposium, IGNCA has not only celebrated the inclusion of these texts but has also opened a broader dialogue on the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in contemporary society.
The valedictory session of the symposium is scheduled for July 31, 2025, with Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, and Prof. Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of the Central Sanskrit University, among the dignitaries expected to attend.
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