BRICS nations united by culture, peace and respect: Union Minister Shekhawat
Bhopal, Aug 7
Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Friday said the BRICS grouping is bound not only by economic and political cooperation but also by a shared commitment to culture, peace, mutual respect and inclusive development.
Addressing the BRICS Cultural Festival at Ravindra Bhavan in Bhopal during the third meeting of the BRICS Culture Ministers, Shekhawat said cultural exchanges have emerged as a strong pillar of cooperation among BRICS nations and partner countries.
"BRICS nations are not limited merely to economic or political partnerships. They are united by a deep sense of shared culture, peace, mutual respect and inclusive development," the Union Minister said.
Describing Madhya Pradesh as a land where civilisations, faiths and artistic traditions have flourished for centuries, he referred to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Bhimbetka, Sanchi and Khajuraho, as well as the traditions of the state's tribal communities, saying they collectively reflect the continuity of India's rich civilisational journey.
Emphasising the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and Atithi Devo Bhava (the guest is akin to God), Shekhawat said India's approach to hospitality goes beyond social etiquette.
"For India, hospitality is not merely a social formality but a profound civilisational value. Though the languages, histories and artistic expressions of BRICS nations may differ, music and art serve as universal languages that unite people through friendship, peace and hope," he said.
The Minister welcomed delegates to Bhopal, popularly known as the City of Lakes, and expressed confidence that the festival would further strengthen cultural dialogue and mutual understanding among BRICS countries.
The cultural festival opened with the prayer Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, followed by a 32‑minute musical presentation showcasing the diversity of Hindustani and Carnatic music under the theme 'Colours of Indian Music'.
The event culminated with the 'BRICS Peace Song', in which artists from BRICS member and partner nations presented their traditional musical forms while conveying the message of peace, friendship and global harmony.
Artists from Belarus, Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates participated in the festival.
The Madhya Pradesh Department of Culture also presented a 35‑minute dance‑drama, Amritasya Madhya Pradesh, portraying the state's cultural, spiritual, historical and natural heritage. The production featured UNESCO World Heritage sites, episodes associated with Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, the legacies of Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar, Raja Bhoj, Bhopal, the Narmada river and preparations for Simhastha‑2028.
The BRICS Cultural Festival is being organised under India's BRICS Presidency 2026 to promote cultural diplomacy, people‑to‑people exchanges and international cooperation through music, dance and the arts, while reinforcing the message of global harmony and unity in diversity.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Music and art are indeed universal languages. This is exactly what the world needs right now - cultural diplomacy over conflict. India's soft power is unmatched, and using our UNESCO sites like Sanchi and Khajuraho as symbols of unity is brilliant thinking.
While cultural festivals are nice, I hope we also focus on tangible outcomes from BRICS - trade agreements, technology sharing, and concrete economic partnerships. Symbolism is good, but substance matters more for the common citizen. Just saying. 🙂
Interesting to see India leading this cultural initiative within BRICS. The blend of Hindustani and Carnatic music presentations shows the diversity within India itself. Great to see global events highlighting cultural unity in these divided times.
The dance-drama on Madhya Pradesh's heritage sounds fascinating! It's heartening to see our tribal traditions and spiritual landmarks being showcased internationally. Atithi Devo Bhava isn't just a phrase - it's our way of life. 🙏✨
As an outsider looking in, I appreciate how India uses its cultural heritage to build bridges. But I'm curious how the BRICS cultural narrative addresses criticisms of human rights issues in member countries like Russia and China. Still, celebrating culture is always positive.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.