IGNCA to Host National Symposium on UNESCO Recognition of the Gita and Natyashastra

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) is set to host a prestigious two-day National Symposium titled “Timeless Texts and Universal Teachings: Inscription of Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra in the UNESCO Memory of the World International Register” on 30th and 31st July 2025 in New Delhi. The event commemorates the inclusion of two of India’s most revered ancient texts—the Bhagavad Gita and the Natyashastra—into the UNESCO Memory of the World International Register, a recognition that underlines their global significance and enduring relevance.

Inaugural Session at Ambedkar International Centre

• The inaugural session will be held on 30th July 2025 at 4:00 PM at the Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
• Chief Guest: Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India.
• Chairperson: Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, Padma Bhushan awardee and President of the IGNCA Trust.

Guests of Honour

• Swami Gyananand Ji Maharaj, Founder of G.I.E.O. Gita and Gita Gyan Sansthanam, Kurukshetra.
• Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Padma Vibhushan awardee and former Rajya Sabha MP.

This session will set the stage for discussions on the universal teachings and cultural legacy of these ancient texts.

Valedictory Session at IGNCA, Janpath

The valedictory session will be held on 31st July 2025 at 5:00 PM at the Samvet Auditorium, IGNCA, Janpath, New Delhi.

• Chief Guest: Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
• Guest of Honour: Prof. Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of the Central Sanskrit University.
• Chairperson: Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA.
• Summary Presentation: Prof. (Dr.) Ramesh C. Gaur, who will deliver a brief summary of the deliberations from the symposium.

Purpose and Significance of the Symposium

The symposium aims to,

• Celebrate Global Recognition: Acknowledge the inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register, which safeguards humanity’s most valuable documentary heritage.
• Reaffirm Timeless Relevance: Explore the universal wisdom and philosophical depth of the Gita and the artistic and cultural richness of the Natyashastra.
• Promote Scholarly Dialogue: Bring together scholars, cultural thinkers, and heritage professionals to engage in deep discussions about the enduring relevance of these texts in contemporary global discourse.
• Connect Tradition with Modernity: Highlight how the teachings of these classical texts continue to influence modern thought, performing arts, and ethical frameworks across the world.

About the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra

• The Bhagavad Gita, a part of the Mahabharata, is considered a spiritual and philosophical guide offering profound insights into life, duty, and morality.
• The Natyashastra, composed by Bharata, is an ancient Sanskrit text on the performing arts, detailing theories of drama, dance, and music, and is widely regarded as the foundation of Indian classical arts.
• Their inscription in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register not only preserves their manuscripts and cultural significance but also reaffirms India’s contribution to global knowledge