Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 18: In a significant achievement for India, the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra have been included in UNESCO’s prestigious Memory of the World Register. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the development as a proud moment for every Indian.

Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, shared the news on X, stating, "The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita & Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra are now inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register." He described the moment as historic for India’s civilisational heritage and celebrated the global recognition of India’s eternal wisdom and artistic brilliance.

The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, addresses profound philosophical questions on action, selflessness, and devotion. It synthesises teachings from various Indian traditions, including Vedic, Buddhist, Jain, and Carvaka, making it a cornerstone of India's intellectual and spiritual legacy.

The Natyashastra, written by Bharat Muni, is the foundational treatise on Indian performing arts, covering theatre, dance, and music. It has significantly shaped classical art traditions and continues to guide artists and scholars.

PM Modi praised the inclusion, stating, "The Gita and Natyashastra’s inclusion in the Memory of the World Register is a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture." This honour brings India’s total entries in the register to 14.

UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register honours documentary heritage of exceptional universal value, celebrating texts and manuscripts that have shaped human history and continue to influence generations.