Sanskriti ka Panchva Adhyay: PM Modi’s Cultural Vision Unveiled

On April 18, World Heritage Day, a significant event took place at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) with the launch of *Sanskriti ka Panchva Adhyay*, a compilation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speeches focusing on Indian culture and heritage. This book was released by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Pujya Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji, highlighting the profound changes in the cultural discourse of India since Modi took office in 2014. The book is curated by Dr. Prabhat Ojha and published by Prabhat Prakashan, featuring a collection of 34 speeches that capture Modi's vision for a cultural resurgence, offering insights into Indian traditions and spiritual values. One notable aspect of this development is the contemporary emphasis on cultural identity, which the event's speakers credited to Modi’s leadership. The speakers at the book launch, including dignitaries like Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh and IGNCA Chairman Ram Bahadur Rai, extolled Modi’s efforts in reinstating not just traditional practices but also a sense of pride among Indians regarding their cultural heritage. They cited the establishment of International Yoga Day as an example of this cultural revitalization that Modi propelled onto the global stage. In discussions surrounding the book's content, the speeches chronologically trace Modi's engagement with various themes related to spirituality and culture, ranging from discussions about historic temples to the Sufi traditions present in India, emphasizing the need for cultural discussions to remain at the forefront of national policy. However, it is important to consider that this perspective is unidirectional, predominantly showcasing Modi's image as a cultural leader. The narrative tends towards glorification, lacking critical viewpoints on the implications of cultural policies, potentially sidelining dissenting voices or alternative narratives that exist within India's rich tapestry of cultures. The book's release on World Heritage Day served as both a celebration of India's history and a platform for Modi's vision of an India that prioritizes and celebrates its heritage alongside development. While the festivities around this launch highlight a prideful narrative, it may not encompass the entire spectrum of cultural experiences in contemporary India, and further discourse should be encouraged to provide a more balanced view of India's cultural identity.