Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday underscored the growing global engagement with India’s cultural and spiritual traditions, noting increasing international interest in the Bhagavad Gita and Buddhist relics. He was addressing the 128th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat.
PM Modi said that visitors can now “literally experience” the Mahabharata at the Mahabharata Experience Centre in Kurukshetra, where the epic is presented using 3D, light, sound, and digital technology. He described his recent visit to the centre on November 25 as “a joyful experience.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted the International Gita Mahotsav held at Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra, noting participation from several countries across Europe and Central Asia. He said that, for the first time, the Gita was presented on a public platform in Saudi Arabia and that another Gita Mahotsav in Latvia saw participation from artists from Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, and Algeria.
PM Modi linked these developments to India’s long-standing cultural emphasis on peace and compassion. He cited the example of Jam Saheb Maharaja Digvijay Singh of Nawanagar, who sheltered Polish Jewish children during World War II. A statue of Jam Saheb was recently unveiled in Moshav Nevatim, Israel. PM Modi recalled visiting the Maharaja’s memorial in Warsaw last year.
The Prime Minister also spoke about the upcoming fourth edition of the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam, beginning December 2 at Namo Ghat in Varanasi. This year’s theme is “Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam.” PM Modi encouraged people to participate, saying the event has become an important platform for those connected with Tamil language and culture.
Reiterating the significance of Tamil heritage, he said, “Tamil culture is great. Tamil language is great. Tamil is the pride of India.”
PM Modi further discussed his recent visit to Bhutan, where leaders expressed gratitude to India for sending relics of Lord Buddha. He noted similar enthusiasm in other countries for the relics, which have recently been taken to Kalmykia in Russia, as well as earlier to Mongolia, Vietnam, and Thailand. PM Modi said that people gathered in large numbers in these countries to view the sacred relics, reflecting strong cultural and spiritual ties.