The prestigious inclusion of the Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayaloka-Locana in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register marks a significant milestone for India’s rich literary heritage. This recognition not only celebrates the timeless wisdom encapsulated in these literary masterpieces but also underscores the importance of preserving diverse narratives and cultural expressions for future generations.
The Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayaloka-Locana have long been revered as literary treasures, deeply ingrained in the fabric of Indian literature and culture. Authored by illustrious figures such as Goswami Tulsidas, Pt. Vishnu Sharma, and Acharya Anandvardhan, respectively, these works have exerted a profound influence on moral values, storytelling traditions, and artistic expressions across the Indian subcontinent.

The successful advocacy for these nominations by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) highlights India’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy on the global stage. Led by Professor Ramesh Chandra Gaur, IGNCA presented the nominations during the 10th assembly of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Prof. Gaur’s effective defense of the nominations at the Ulaanbaatar convention reflects IGNCA’s dedication to promoting India’s cultural heritage and literary traditions. This achievement not only showcases India’s rich literary landscape but also reaffirms IGNCA’s pivotal role in safeguarding and promoting the nation’s cultural heritage.
The inclusion of these literary treasures in UNESCO’s prestigious register is a testament to their enduring significance and universal appeal. As custodians of these invaluable cultural assets, it is imperative for India and the global community to continue their efforts in preserving and promoting these literary gems for generations to come.
A Proud Moment for India
The inclusion of ‘Ramcharitmanas’, ‘Panchatantra’, and ‘Sahṛdayaloka-Locana’ in UNESCO’s esteemed register is a testament to the profound impact these works have had on Indian literature and culture. Written by revered authors Acharya Anandvardhan, Pt. Vishnu Sharma, and Goswami Tulsidas, these timeless classics have shaped the moral values and artistic sensibilities of the nation, leaving an indelible mark on readers and artists alike, both in India and beyond.
With the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) at the forefront, India’s literary treasures found their way onto the prestigious register during the 10th assembly of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP) held in Ulaanbaatar. Professor Ramesh Chandra Gaur, Dean and Head of the Department at IGNCA, presented the nominations for ‘Ramcharitmanas’, ‘Panchatantra’, and ‘Sahṛdayāloka-Locana’, garnering widespread acclaim and recognition for India’s cultural heritage.

IGNCA’s Commitment to Cultural Preservation
Under the able leadership of Prof. Gaur, IGNCA successfully advocated for the inclusion of these literary treasures, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history. With 38 member state representatives and 40 observers and nominees in attendance, IGNCA’s efforts bore fruit as the nominations from India were embraced and endorsed following vigorous discussions and recommendations from the Register Subcommittee (RSC).
This accomplishment underscores IGNCA’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding and promoting India’s rich cultural legacy on a global stage, furthering the cause of cultural preservation and advancing the nation’s literary heritage. The proud inclusion of ‘Ramcharitmanas’, ‘Panchatantra’, and ‘Sahṛdayaloka-Locana’ in UNESCO’s register is a testament to India’s timeless contributions to world literature and underscores the enduring relevance of these literary treasures in today’s world.
In conclusion, the recognition of ‘Ramcharitmanas’, ‘Panchatantra’, and ‘Sahṛdayaloka-Locana’ in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register is a fitting tribute to India’s vibrant literary tradition and cultural heritage. As these timeless works continue to inspire and enlighten generations of readers and artists, their inclusion serves as a beacon of India’s rich cultural tapestry and literary prowess. Through the efforts of institutions like IGNCA and dedicated individuals like Prof. Ramesh Chandra Gaur, India’s literary legacy will continue to shine brightly on the global stage, enriching the lives of all who come across these literary gems.