Indian art offers a model of inclusivity in a divided world: Vice-President
In a tunnel of transgressions and conflagrations, the light of dance and music unites people across cultural barriers, says VP
Our cultural revival integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary practices, cementing India’s image as a cultural powerhouse, says VP
Delhi, Oct 21
Indian art, particularly dance, offers a model of inclusivity in a world increasingly divided by conflicts and discord, said Vice-President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar. He emphasized the power of India’s rich cultural heritage to unite people across boundaries, stating, “In a world grappling with conflicts, transgressions, and discord, Indian art offers a ray of light. When the tunnel is filled with challenges and divisiveness, it is culture, dance, and music that unite us across barriers. Howsoever divisive the world may be, the unity brought about by our culture is impregnable, soothing, and lasting.”
Addressing the gathering at the International Festival on Indian Dance, organized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the Vice-President said, “Performing arts have the power to unite, heal, inspire, and motivate. Dance artists are cultural and peace ambassadors, promoting dialogue and laying the groundwork for soothing diplomatic maneuvers. Dance is a great facet of cultural diplomacy, fostering understanding and connection across boundaries.”
Shri Dhankhar hailed India’s cultural richness, noting, “Bharat is a gold mine of fine arts. Our cultural revival integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary practices, further cementing India’s image as a cultural powerhouse. The world witnessed this during our G20 Presidency, where our culture was showcased as a feast for the senses. Culture, dance, and music are the universal languages of mankind, understood and appreciated globally.”
The Vice President also emphasized India’s historical influence on global culture, particularly through its epics. “Art does not define dominance; it defines integration. The Ramayana’s spread to Southeast Asia, visible at Angkor Wat, stands as a testament to our cultural diplomacy. When I visited Angkor Wat, I was awestruck by the intricate carvings—it’s as if the stone was speaking. This showcases Indian art’s potential for cultural diplomacy.”