Bhagavad Gita’s manuscript, Natyashastra engraved in UNESCO’s memory of the world

Natyashastra of Shrimad Bhagavad Gita & Bharat Muni is now engraved in UNESCO’s memory of the world register. |Picture source: x@gssjodhpur

The manuscripts of Bhagavad Gita and Bharat Muni’s Natyshastra are one of 74 new collections of documentary heritage that have been added to UNESCO’s memory of the World Register on April 17, bringing the total number of inscription collections to 570.

According to UNESCO, entries on the scientific revolution, women’s contribution to history and major milestones of multilateralism from 72 countries and four international organizations are included in the register.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the inscription as “a moment of pride for every Indian in the world” in a post published on X on Friday (April 18, 2025).

He said: “Incorporating Gita and Natyshastra into UNESCO’s memory of the world register is a global recognition of our eternal wisdom and rich culture. Gita and Natyshastra cultivate civilization and cultivate awareness of the century. Their insights continue to inspire the world.”

Natyashastra is considered a groundbreaking text about the performing arts.

Alliance Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also said that this is a “historic moment in the legacy of Bharat civilization”.

“This global honor celebrates India’s eternal wisdom and artistic genius,” he said.

“These eternal works are not just literary treasures, they are the foundations of philosophy and aesthetics that shape Bharat’s worldview and the way we think, feel, live and express. With that, we now have 14 inscriptions from our country on this international register.”