India’s Cultural Diplomacy

Syllabus: GS2/IR

Context

• From Kalamkari Mahabharata painting to Pochampally silk stole to Lakadong Turmeric to thekua are among the list of items gifted by PM Modi to foreign dignitaries during his recent visit to France and Slovakia.

About the Items Gifted by PM Modi

• Kalamkari Mahabharata painting: It is a hand-crafted painting from Andhra Pradesh, the painting was created using traditional pen-drawing techniques, and it depicts scenes from the Mahabharata.
• Pochampally silk stole: It is a handwoven textile from Telangana, made using the traditional Ikat resist-dyeing technique. It is known for its intricate geometric and floral patterns, fine craftsmanship, and elegant design.
• Kashmiri silk carpet: The handwoven carpet is made from high-quality natural silk and is known for its intricate floral, paisley, vine, and medallion designs.
• Brass Dokra Antelope set: It is a handcrafted artwork that showcases India’s ancient Dokra metal-casting tradition, practiced for centuries by tribal artisans in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
  • The antelope figures symbolise gentleness, agility, and harmony with nature, drawing a cultural connection to the Tatra Chamois of Slovakia.
• Handcrafted Thewa motif cufflinks: It showcases the traditional jewellery craft of Rajasthan’s Pratapgarh, featuring finely engraved gold sheets fused onto coloured glass.
• The Prime Minister gifted a copy of Charak Samhita, Susruta Samhita and Thekua.
  • Charaka Samhita reflects India’s rich scientific and intellectual heritage, Thekua is a traditional sweet snack from Bihar.
  • The Sushruta Samhita is an ancient Sanskrit medical text and one of the foundational treatises of Ayurveda. Written around the 6th century BCE by the physician Sushruta—often celebrated as the “Father of Surgery”.
• During the G7 Summit, the Prime Minister gifted Rajasthan’s Nagauri Ashwagandha , Meghalaya’s Lakadong Turmeric, Ramban Honey produced in the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir and Banarsi silk stoles.

What is Cultural Diplomacy?

• Cultural diplomacy is the “exchange of ideas, information, art, language and other aspects of culture among nations and peoples in order to foster mutual understanding.
  • It functions as a soft but potent force for unity and coexistence.
• Following independence, several countries centred their foreign policy around culture, or development policies around inter-state cooperation in culture.
• Examples of Soft Power: The formation of the EU is an excellent example of the triumph of soft power to settle centuries of dispute and conflict in Europe.
  • Immediately after World War II, school children from France and Germany were sent on exchange programmes to learn about each other’s culture, language and customs.

Pillars of India’s Cultural Diplomacy

• Saman (Peace): India’s commitment to peace is reflected in its long history of non-violence and diplomatic engagements. 
  • India has played a proactive role in UN peacekeeping missions contributing personnel to over 40 missions globally. 
  • The country’s peace-oriented foreign policy combined with its non-aligned status has bolstered its image as a peaceful and stable power. 
  • India’s advocacy for global South-South cooperation has earned respect from developing nations which view India as a model for economic development.
• Samriddhi (Prosperity): India’s economic success through initiatives such as Make in India and Startup India has positioned it as an emerging global economic powerhouse with an emerging global market. 
  • The country’s growing trade relationships particularly with Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East showcase its economic influence. 
• Suraksha (Security): India’s strategy for regional and global security is based on its alliances with significant powers like the United States, Russia and Japan.
  • India has established itself as a crucial actor in Indo-Pacific security balancing its historical non-aligned stance with active involvement in security platforms like the QUAD. 
  • India’s emphasis on counterterrorism and humanitarian efforts reflects its position as a contributor to regional security. 
• Sanskriti (Culture): Bollywood, classical arts, yoga and food are among the most visible exports of Indian culture.
  • The International Day of Yoga which is observed all around the world exemplifies how India expanded its cultural history to reach out to global audiences. 
  • Indian diaspora play a vital role in spreading Indian culture and values. Making its impact in an interconnected globalized world. 

Challenges

• Competition from Other Countries’ Soft Power: Countries like China, South Korea, and Japan invest heavily in promoting their culture abroad.
• Limited Institutional and Financial Resources: Organizations such as Indian Council for Cultural Relations often face budgetary and manpower constraints compared to similar institutions of major powers.
• Underutilization of Cultural Assets: India’s vast cultural heritage, languages, literature, museums, and historical sites are not always effectively showcased internationally.
• Digital and Language Barriers: Indian cultural content is often less accessible globally due to limited translation and digital dissemination compared to competitors.

Way Ahead

• Strengthening Cultural Diplomacy: India should continue to promote its values through programs like International Yoga Day and expand cultural exchange programs particularly in regions where its soft power is still emerging.
• Leveraging Digital Diplomacy: India must invest more in digital platforms to reach younger global audiences. Initiatives like Digital India can be expanded to offer more opportunities for international collaboration and cultural engagement. 
• Educational Diplomacy: India should increase the number of scholarships and educational exchange programs to attract international students, particularly from developing nations. 
• Regional Engagement: India must continue to strengthen its influence in South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia through diplomatic, economic and cultural ties. 

Conclusion 

• India’s soft power capability has significantly increased in the age of globalization fueled by its cultural diplomacy, economic advancement and strategic alliances. 
• As India maneuvers through the intricacies of international geopolitics its soft power will be an essential asset for cultivating relationships, encouraging mutual respect and promoting its interests globally. 

Source: IE