UNESCO added the manuscripts of the Bhagavad Gita and Bharata’s Natyashastra to its Memory of the World Register. This recognition celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed this achievement as a proud moment for Indians globally. He emphasised the enduring influence of these texts on civilisation and consciousness.
UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme
UNESCO launched the Memory of the World Programme in 1992. Its goal is to preserve and promote documentary heritage worldwide. The programme aims to prevent collective amnesia by safeguarding valuable archives and library collections. The Memory of the World Register, established in 1997, contains documents of outstanding universal value. It has been updated biennially, with a total of 570 entries as of 2025.
Significance of the New Additions
The inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra marks India’s ancient literary and artistic contributions. Both manuscripts are preserved by the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune. The Gita consists of 700 verses and is a dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna, addressing deep ethical and spiritual questions. The Natyashastra, attributed to sage Bharata, is a comprehensive treatise on performing arts, encompassing drama, music, and aesthetics.
Details of the Manuscripts
The Bhagavad Gita synthesises various Indian philosophical traditions, including Vedic, Buddhist, and Jain thought. It is embedded within the Mahabharata and is considered central to Indian intellectual tradition. The Natyashastra, with its 36,000 verses, defines performance art and introduces the concept of rasa, which encapsulates the emotional experience of art. This concept is critical for understanding the impact of performance on audiences.
India’s Contributions to the Register
India has made 13 submissions to the Memory of the World Register. These include historical documents such as the Rig Veda and the archives of the Non-Aligned Movement. The recent additions, including the Gita and Natyashastra, showcase India’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Each submission reflects a unique aspect of India’s diverse history and intellectual legacy.
Global Impact of the Texts
The Bhagavad Gita has been translated into numerous languages and studied worldwide. Its philosophical depth resonates with audiences across cultures. Similarly, the Natyashastra’s influence extends beyond India, affecting global performing arts. Both texts continue to inspire and educate, encouraging a deeper understanding of human experience and creativity.
Future of Cultural Heritage Preservation
The recognition of these manuscripts puts stress on the importance of preserving cultural heritage. UNESCO’s efforts highlight the need for global cooperation in safeguarding documentary heritage. As societies evolve, the preservation of such texts ensures that future generations can access and learn from their cultural roots.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically examine the significance of the Bhagavad Gita in contemporary philosophy.
- Discuss the role of UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme in preserving global heritage.
- What is the concept of rasa in the Natyashastra? How does it influence performance art?
- Explain the impact of India’s cultural heritage on global arts. Provide suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically examine the significance of the Bhagavad Gita in contemporary philosophy.
- The Gita synthesizes various philosophical traditions, promoting ethical living and spiritual wisdom.
- It addresses universal themes such as duty, righteousness, and the nature of reality, relevant to modern existential dilemmas.
- Its dialogue format encourages critical thinking and self-reflection, appealing to contemporary philosophical inquiry.
- The Gita’s teachings on detachment and selfless action resonate with modern discussions on mental health and well-being.
- It is a source of inspiration for leaders and thinkers, influencing contemporary movements for social justice and peace.
2. Discuss the role of UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme in preserving global heritage.
- The programme aims to safeguard documentary heritage, preventing collective amnesia and ensuring accessibility.
- It promotes global awareness of cultural documents, encouraging international cooperation in preservation efforts.
- By maintaining the Memory of the World Register, UNESCO marks the importance of diverse cultural narratives.
- The programme supports local initiatives and institutions in preserving their unique heritage, enhancing cultural resilience.
- It encourages educational outreach, making heritage accessible to future generations and promoting cultural understanding.
3. What is the concept of rasa in the Natyashastra? How does it influence performance art?
- Rasa refers to the emotional essence or flavor experienced by the audience during a performance.
- It is central to the Natyashastra’s definition of art, emphasizing the audience’s emotional engagement with the performance.
- Rasa guides performers in evoking specific emotions, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience of the audience.
- The concept influences various art forms, encouraging artists to explore and express complex human emotions.
- Rasa encourages a connection between the performer and the audience, creating a shared experience that transcends reality.
4. Explain the impact of India’s cultural heritage on global arts. Provide suitable examples.
- Indian art forms, such as classical dance and music, have influenced global performing arts, enriching cultural exchanges.
- The Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra have inspired numerous adaptations in theatre and literature worldwide.
- Indian motifs and themes are prevalent in global cinema, showcasing the universal appeal of its narratives.
- Collaborations between Indian and international artists have led to innovative fusions in music and dance, broadening artistic horizons.
- India’s rich storytelling traditions continue to inspire global artists, promoting cross-cultural dialogues and understanding.
