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Three Ancient Indian Texts Receive Prestigious UNESCO Recognition (Img: X)
New Delhi: In a significant recognition of India's literary, historical and intellectual heritage, three major ancient Indian works, the Rajatarangini, the Mahabharata and the Arthashastra — have been inscribed in UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register.
The inscription marks an important milestone in the international recognition of India's civilisational heritage and its contribution to historical writing, literature, political thought and governance.
The announcement was shared by the Ministry of Culture on Thursday, describing the development as a moment of pride for the country and highlighting the global recognition accorded to India's rich knowledge traditions.
"The three works represent distinct strands of India's intellectual heritage-- historical documentation, epic literature and political economy. Their inclusion also adds to India's growing presence in UNESCO's regional documentary heritage register", Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said.
The Rajatarangini, written by 12th-century Kashmiri historian Kalhana, is a chronicle of Kashmir's rulers, political developments and social life. Composed in Sanskrit, it is regarded as an important early work of historical writing in the Indian subcontinent.
The Mahabharata, traditionally attributed to sage Vyasa, is one of the world's longest epics. Beyond its narrative of the Kurukshetra war, it contains extensive philosophical, ethical and social reflections, including Bhagavad Gita.
The Arthashastra, attributed to ancient Indian strategist and scholar Kautilya, is a treatise on statecraft, administration, economics, diplomacy and military strategy. It remains an important source for understanding ancient India's political and administrative thought.
The recognition is particularly significant because it honours not merely the literary works but also the rare manuscript through which these traditions have been preserved.
