Elevating India's Global Influence

In the dynamic arena of international relations, cultural diplomacy has emerged as a potent tool for nations to forge bonds, promote mutual understanding, and project soft power on the global stage. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for his strategic initiatives and charismatic leadership, has adeptly leveraged India's rich cultural heritage to bolster its global influence and strengthen bilateral relations with countries worldwide.

Under Modi's tenure, India's approach to cultural diplomacy has undergone a significant transformation, characterised by a proactive engagement that transcends traditional diplomatic norms.

CULTURAL DIPLOMACY INITIATIVES

Central to Modi's cultural diplomacy strategy is the promotion of India's cultural diversity through various initiatives and engagements. One of the noteworthy endeavours is the "International Day of Yoga," proposed by Modi and adopted by the United Nations in 2014. This annual event, celebrated globally on June 21st, promotes physical and mental well-being through yoga, embodying India's ancient practice as a symbol of peace and harmony.

Furthermore, Modi has revitalised India's cultural diplomacy through initiatives like the "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat" program, launched in 2016. This innovative initiative pairs states and union territories of India to promote mutual understanding and appreciation of their cultural heritage. By fostering interactions between diverse Indian regions, Modi aims to strengthen national unity while projecting India's cultural richness abroad.

CULTURAL EXCHANGES AND FESTIVALS

Modi's government has actively facilitated cultural exchanges and festivals to showcase India's cultural vibrancy globally. Events such as the "Namaste France" cultural festival in Paris and the "India by the Nile" festival in Egypt have provided platforms for Indian artists, musicians, dancers, and filmmakers to showcase their talents and engage with international audiences.

Such initiatives highlight Modi's vision of cultural diplomacy as a means to build bridges and nurture enduring relationships beyond political and economic realms.

Promotion of Indian Heritage & Art

Under the leadership of PM Modi, India has embarked on an ambitious journey to promote its rich cultural heritage and arts on the global stage. Recognising the profound influence of cultural diplomacy, the Modi government has implemented various initiatives aimed at preserving, promoting, and showcasing India's diverse cultural legacy.

One of the cornerstone efforts has been the restoration and preservation of ancient cultural sites, such as temples in Cambodia and Vietnam. These endeavors not only underscore India's commitment to conserving shared heritage but also strengthen cultural ties with Southeast Asian nations.

Celebrations of Indian festivals in various countries have also gained prominence, reflecting the growing popularity of India's traditions in art, dance, music, literature, languages, and culinary practices worldwide. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), through its Cultural Centres in 37 countries, has been instrumental in organising cultural festivals, promoting Indian studies abroad and awarding scholarships to foreign students to study in India.

A significant achievement under Modi's leadership was the inclusion of the Garba Dance in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Furthermore, the Modi government's 'Vikas Bhi Virasat Bhi' initiative focuses on conserving and restoring significant civilisational and religious sites across India. Projects such as the 'Kashi Vishwanath' Corridor in Varanasi, 'Ram Mandir' in Ayodhya, 'Mahakaal Lok' Project in Ujjain, and the 'Maa Kamakhya' Corridor in Guwahati are notable milestones in this endeavour.

Additionally, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has successfully retrieved over 340 antiquities of Indian origin from foreign countries since 2014, reflecting efforts to reclaim and preserve India's ancient artefacts.

To this end, India is working to develop a modern system on the lines of similar cultural events in cities like Venice, London and Sao Paulo, Modi said while inaugurating the first India Art, Architecture, and Design Biennale (IAADB) 2023 at the Red Fort.

“The India Art, Architecture, and Design Biennale is a celebration of our country’s diverse heritage and vibrant culture. Such programmes should get a global identity as similar events in some of the world cities,” he said. The Modi government has taken a notable initiative to safeguard and preserve the country's cultural heritage sites.

UAE AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

In the realm of cultural diplomacy, Modi's engagement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been particularly noteworthy. The UAE, home to a significant Indian expatriate community, shares strong historical and cultural ties with India. Modi's visits to the UAE have emphasized cultural exchanges and economic cooperation, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation between the two nations.

— anam@khaleejtimes.com

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