Bhagavad Gita, Natyashastra enter UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register
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New Delhi : In a significant recognition of India’s cultural and philosophical heritage, the manuscripts of the 'Bhagavad Gita' and 'Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra' have been inscribed in UNESCO’s prestigious Memory of the World Register. They are among 74 new documentary heritage collections added to the list, which now comprises a total of 570 entries from across the globe.
These additions represent a diverse range of themes, including the scientific revolution, women's contributions to history, and landmark achievements in multilateralism, with submissions from 72 countries and four international organisations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to the social media platform X on Friday to express pride over the recognition.
"A proud moment for every Indian across the world! The inclusion of the Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register is a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture. The Gita and Natyashastra have nurtured civilisation and consciousness for centuries. Their insights continue to inspire the world," he wrote.
The 'Natyashastra', attributed to ancient sage Bharat Muni, is regarded as a foundational text on Indian performing arts, encompassing drama, dance, and music, and is considered a philosophical cornerstone in Indian aesthetic theory.
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also celebrated the development, calling it a “historic moment for Bharat’s civilisational heritage.”In his post on X, he wrote,
“This global honour celebrates India's eternal wisdom and artistic genius. These timeless works are more than literary treasures — they are philosophical and aesthetic foundations that have shaped Bharat's worldview and the way we think, feel, live, and express.”
The minister further noted that with the inclusion of the 'Bhagavad Gita' and 'Natyashastra', India now has 14 entries in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. He also shared images of the manuscripts to mark the occasion.
With PTI inputs