Timeless Wisdom: 3 Indian Classics Enter UNESCO's Global Register
UNESCO's MOWCAP register now includes the Mahabharata, Arthashastra, and Rajatarangini, celebrating India's timeless knowledge and wisdom.
India's intellectual and spiritual heritage has reached a new milestone on the global stage. In a move that celebrates the country's ancient knowledge systems, three monumental works—the Mahabharata, Kautilya's Arthashastra, and Kalhana's Rajatarangini—have been officially inscribed in UNESCO's Memory of the World Regional Register for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP).
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) hailed this achievement as a moment of immense pride, noting that it provides global recognition for India's "timeless wisdom." MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the news on X, emphasizing that these knowledge traditions continue to resonate across borders and generations.
A Triumph in Jakarta
The decision to include these texts was finalized during the 11th Session of the MOWCAP Register, held in Jakarta, Indonesia. This addition brings the total number of Indian inscriptions in the Regional Register to six, significantly amplifying the international acknowledgement of India's philosophical, political, and literary contributions.
The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) played a pivotal role in this success. Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of the IGNCA, announced the development, highlighting the rigorous effort involved in preparing the nomination dossiers for the three works.
The Pillars of Indian Intellectual Heritage
The three inscribed works are not just ancient books; they represent distinct dimensions of human understanding and governance that have shaped civilizations.
The Mahabharata: The Epic of Dharma
Far more than a narrative of a great war, the Mahabharata is an exhaustive exploration of human existence. It delves into the complexities of Dharma (duty), justice, power, and the intricate nature of human relationships. Its philosophical depth makes it a cornerstone of South Asia's shared cultural memory and a vital part of the intellectual heritage of all humanity.
Kautilya's Arthashastra: The Blueprint of Statecraft
A masterclass in governance, the Arthashastra remains relevant for its sophisticated approach to statecraft, economic policy, diplomacy, and administration. It reflects the advanced political vision of ancient India, offering insights into the functioning of the state and strategic affairs that are still studied by scholars of governance today.
Rajatarangini: The Chronicle of Kashmir
Composed in the 12th century, Kalhana's Rajatarangini is a landmark in Indian historiography. It provides a detailed chronological account of the rulers of Kashmir, blending political developments with the social and cultural life of the region. What sets this work apart is its methodology, utilizing evidence and critical inquiry to record history.
Beyond the Pages
The inclusion of these texts in the UNESCO register is viewed as more than a literary achievement. It is a recognition of India's enduring contributions to the human understanding of ethics, philosophy, and good governance. By safeguarding these works in a regional register, the world acknowledges the profound impact of India's historical memory and its timeless approach to leadership and morality.