In a significant cultural milestone, the manuscripts of the Bhagavad Gita and Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra were included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register in 2024. These texts are among 74 documentary heritage collections recognized globally, underscoring their historical and cultural importance.
Established in 1992, UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register is an international initiative aimed at preserving and promoting access to valuable books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other records. The program highlights materials considered integral to the documentary heritage of humanity.
The inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita and the Natyashastra is a testament to their timeless relevance and influence. The Bhagavad Gita, an ancient philosophical dialogue within the Mahabharata, addresses profound themes of duty, righteousness, and spiritual enlightenment. On the other hand, the Natyashastra, penned by Bharat Muni around the 2nd century BCE, serves as a foundational treatise on Indian performing arts, detailing drama, music, dance, and aesthetic theories.
Comprising 700 verses across 18 chapters, the Bhagavad Gita is a conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna set against the backdrop of the Mahabharata war. It delves into spiritual wisdom and ethical dilemmas, offering guidance that transcends time.
The Natyashastra is revered as a comprehensive guide to classical Indian performing arts. It explores various aspects of drama, performance, music, and dance, emphasizing the concept of rasa or emotional expression, making it an invaluable resource for performers and scholars alike.
Both the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra manuscripts are meticulously preserved at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune, Maharashtra, ensuring their longevity for future generations.
UNESCO’s citation hailed the Bhagavad Gita as an ancient Samgraha-grantha of Indian thought with a vast global influence. The Natyashastra was praised as the “epitome of the Natyaveda,” embodying a wealth of knowledge in the performing arts across 36,000 verses. This recognition amplifies India's intellectual, literary, and artistic legacy, ensuring broader global access and preservation.
Indian leadership celebrated this achievement with pride. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed it as a proud moment for all Indians, while Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat highlighted it as a celebration of India’s timeless wisdom and artistic genius. The announcement coincided with World Heritage Day on April 18, 2025, marking a momentous occasion for the nation.
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