In a significant cultural milestone, UNESCO officially inscribed two of India’s most revered ancient texts—the Bhagavad Gita and the Natyashastra—into its Memory of the World Register on April 18, 2025. This recognition underscores their enduring value to humanity and highlights India’s vast contributions to global heritage.
Why This Recognition Matters
The UNESCO Memory of the World Register, established in 1992, is a global initiative aimed at safeguarding documentary heritage of universal importance. With the inclusion of these two iconic manuscripts, India’s total entries in the register now stand at 14, reflecting the country’s rich legacy in literature, philosophy, and the arts.
Bhagavad Gita: Timeless Wisdom
The Bhagavad Gita is a 700-verse scripture that forms a part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. Framed as a spiritual dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna, it explores deep philosophical questions around dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation). Its teachings transcend religious boundaries and continue to inspire millions across the world.
Natyashastra: The Foundation of Indian Performing Arts
The Natyashastra, attributed to sage Bharata, dates back to around the 2nd century BCE. Often regarded as the world’s earliest comprehensive treatise on performing arts, it covers an expansive range of disciplines including drama, dance, music, and aesthetics. This ancient text laid the groundwork for classical Indian art forms and continues to influence theatre and performance even today.
A Moment of National Pride
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the achievement, calling it “a proud moment for every Indian across the world.” He emphasized how these works reflect the depth of Indian civilization and its contribution to global knowledge and consciousness.
Global Impact and Preservation
This prestigious recognition not only honors India’s ancient intellectual treasures but also ensures their long-term preservation, digital documentation, and global accessibility. By securing a place in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register, both the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra will reach new generations, continuing to enlighten minds across cultures and continents.
Key Takeaways for Readers and Researchers
- UNESCO recognition boosts cultural visibility and encourages academic research
- Bhagavad Gita remains a guiding text for spiritual seekers and ethicists worldwide.
- Natyashastra provides invaluable insights into the origins of drama and performance.
- India’s documentary heritage continues to gain global acknowledgment.