Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana enter UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register

New Delhi: UNESCO has included three timeless classics – the Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana – in its Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. This prestigious inclusion not only celebrates India’s cultural legacy but also underscores the global importance of preserving diverse narratives and artistic expressions.

The Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana are revered literary works that have profoundly influenced Indian literature and culture. Authored by Goswami Tulsidas, Pt. Vishnu Sharma, and Acharya Anandvardhan respectively, these masterpieces have transcended time and geography, leaving an indelible mark on readers and artists worldwide.

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) played a pivotal role in securing this historic moment during the 10th meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP). IGNCA’s efforts, led by Professor Ramesh Chandra Gaur, resulted in the successful advocacy for the inclusion of these Indian nominations in the UNESCO register.

Professor Gaur, Dean of Administration and Head of the Kala Nidhi Division at IGNCA, effectively presented the nominations at the Ulaanbaatar convention, emphasizing India’s literary legacy and the significance of these works in shaping global cultural discourse.

Following rigorous deliberations and recommendations from the Register Subcommittee, all three nominations secured inclusion, marking a significant milestone for India’s literary contributions. This marks the first time IGNCA has submitted nominations to the Regional Register since its inception in 2008, reflecting a renewed dedication to safeguarding India’s cultural treasures for future generations.