UNESCO Honors Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana : 3 Indian Literary Heritage Celebrated

In a landmark moment for India’s rich cultural and literary heritage, three iconic texts—Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana—have been inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. This recognition underscores the enduring significance of these works and highlights global efforts to preserve and celebrate diverse narratives and artistic expressions.

UNESCO’s Honor – A Proud Moment for India

The inclusion of these literary masterpieces in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register is a significant milestone for India. This recognition not only affirms the country’s rich literary legacy but also underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural diversity. The Ministry of Culture has acknowledged this achievement as a testament to India’s profound contributions to global literature and cultural preservation.

Influential Works and Their Authors

The Ramcharitmanas, authored by Goswami Tulsidas, is a revered epic that has deeply influenced Indian literature and culture. Its poetic retelling of the Ramayana has shaped the nation’s moral and artistic expressions for centuries. The Panchatantra, attributed to Pt. Vishnu Sharma, is a collection of ancient Indian fables that have transcended time and geographical boundaries, imparting timeless wisdom through engaging narratives. Sahṛdayāloka-Locana, written by Acharya Anandvardhan, is a significant work in Indian literary criticism, further showcasing the depth and diversity of India’s literary traditions.

IGNCA’s Role in the Nomination Process

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) played a pivotal role in the successful nomination of these works. Professor Ramesh Chandra Gaur, Dean (Administration) and Head of the Department, Kala Nidhi Division at IGNCA, presented and defended these nominations at the 10th General Meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. This marked the first time IGNCA had submitted nominations to the Regional Register since its inception in 2008.

Global Recognition and Cultural Preservation

The rigorous deliberation process involved recommendations from the Register Subcommittee (RSC) and voting by member state representatives, ultimately leading to the successful inclusion of all three nominations. This achievement highlights IGNCA’s dedication to preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage on a global scale. It also reaffirms the importance of safeguarding literary masterpieces that continue to inspire and enlighten future generations.

Significance of the Memory of the World Register

UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register aims to preserve and make accessible documentary heritage of global significance. The inclusion of the Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana in the Asia-Pacific Regional Register emphasizes the enduring cultural and literary importance of these works. This recognition aligns with UNESCO’s broader goals of celebrating human creativity and imagination.

Celebrating Diverse Narratives

The 10th General Meeting of MOWCAP, held in Ulaanbaatar, was a celebration of human research, innovation, and imagination. Alongside the Indian literary masterpieces, other significant inscriptions included genealogical records, scientific expedition findings, and regional literary traditions from across Asia and the Pacific. This diverse array of recognized works underscores the global effort to document and preserve cultural heritage.

A Future of Continued Inspiration

The inclusion of Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register ensures that these works will continue to inspire and educate future generations. By honoring these literary treasures, society pays homage to the creative genius of their authors and reaffirms the importance of preserving our shared cultural heritage.

This milestone is not just a celebration of India’s literary achievements but also a reminder of the universal value of cultural preservation. As these texts continue to influence readers and artists around the world, their inclusion in the Memory of the World Register stands as a testament to the timeless power of literature to transcend boundaries and enrich humanity.