UNESCO Honors Ramcharitmanas & Panchatantra in Asia-Pacific Memory of the World

Join India’s jubilation as UNESCO adds Ramcharitmanas and Panchatantra to its prestigious Asia-Pacific Memory of the World list. Discover the profound impact of these classic works on culture and their enduring inspiration for generations to come.

India achieved a significant milestone as three of its revered literary works – Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahrdayaloka-Locana – were recognized and included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. These timeless masterpieces have profoundly influenced Indian literature and culture, shaping moral values and artistic expressions across generations. Their inclusion underscores the rich literary heritage and cultural legacy of the country, marking a stride in global efforts to preserve diverse narratives and artistic expressions.

Authored by Acharya Anandvardhan, Pt Vishnu Sharma, and Goswami Tulsidas respectively, these works have left an indelible mark not only within India but also beyond its borders. The Ministry of Culture emphasized that honoring these literary giants not only pays tribute to their creative brilliance but also ensures that their wisdom continues to inspire future generations.

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) played a crucial role in obtaining this significant acknowledgment at the 10th gathering of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP) in Ulaanbaatar. IGNCA advocated for the Indian nominations, successfully presenting them to the committee. Professor Ramesh Chandra Gaur, Dean and Head of the Department at IGNCA, effectively defended the nominations, highlighting India’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

This achievement signifies IGNCA’s dedication to promoting India’s cultural richness on a global platform. Notably, this is the first time IGNCA has submitted nominations to the Regional Register since its establishment in 2008, according to the Ministry of Culture.

The Memory of the World Register recognizes documentary heritage of outstanding universal value, facilitating research, education, and preservation. The inscription of these literary treasures enhances their visibility and accessibility, ensuring their enduring significance for generations to come.

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