Art and Culture

 

Indian Art and Culture for Competitive Affairs

Deepavali Inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List as India’s 16th Element

Deepavali (Diwali), the festival of lights, has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee session held at the Red Fort, New Delhi (8–13 December 2025). This makes Deepavali the 16th Indian element on the UNESCO Intangible Heritage list. The announcement was celebrated in Nepal with bhajan gatherings and lamp-lighting at the Pashupati Temple, where community members expressed pride in the global recognition of their tradition.

UNESCO delegates from 194 member states adopted the inscription, acknowledging Deepavali as a living tradition symbolising light over darkness and good over evil. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the recognition, noting that Deepavali reflects the soul of India’s civilisation.

The festival’s practices—lighting oil lamps, fireworks, community gatherings, and home-cleaning rituals—promote social bonding, cultural continuity, and hygiene. The inscription honours the millions who celebrate the festival, the artisans who preserve its traditions, and the enduring cultural values it represents.

India’s list of intangible heritage elements already includes Garba, Durga Puja, Kumbh Mela, Yoga, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, and several other iconic cultural traditions.

Q. Which Indian festival was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee session held at the Red Fort, New Delhi in December 2025?
A. Holi
B. Garba
C. Deepavali (Diwali)
D. Durga Puja
✅ Answer: C. Deepavali (Diwali)

India Hosts 20th UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee Session at Red Fort

India is hosting the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the Red Fort, New Delhi, from 8 to 13 December 2025. The session is chaired by Ambassador Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, and brings together international delegates, cultural experts, and policymakers to review new nominations and strengthen global cooperation under the 2003 UNESCO Convention.

A key highlight of the session is India’s nomination of Diwali for inclusion in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. India currently has 15 elements already inscribed, including Yoga, Kumbh Mela, and Ramlila.

Kashi–Tamil Sangamam 4.0 Begins in Varanasi

The fourth edition of the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam began on 2 December 2025 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The event was jointly inaugurated by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at Namo Ghat.

The central theme of this edition is “Let Us Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam”, emphasizing the unity of India’s languages and promoting Tamil learning across regions. The event highlights cultural integration, with traditional artists from both Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu performing together.

More than 1,400 delegates from Tamil Nadu—students, teachers, writers, media professionals, farmers, professionals, artisans, women, and spiritual scholars—will participate in various cultural and educational programs in Kashi.

Hornbill Festival of Nagaland from 1-10 December, 2025, at the Kisama Heritage Village

The 26th Hornbill Festival of Nagaland began on December 1, 2025, at the Kisama Heritage Village and will continue for ten days. Celebrated annually to mark Nagaland’s Statehood Day, the festival showcases the unity and cultural richness of the state’s 17 major tribes.

This edition was inaugurated by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio hosting the event. A key highlight is the newly renamed Unity Arena, which hosted the opening ceremony.

The 2025 festival features participation from six partner countries—the United Kingdom, France, Austria, Switzerland, Malta, and Ireland—and Arunachal Pradesh as the partner state, emphasizing international cultural exchange and regional cooperation. To encourage global tourism, the Government of India relaxed the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirements.

Throughout the celebration, visitors can experience traditional dances, folk music, indigenous sports, arts, handloom exhibitions, tribal cuisine, carnivals, concerts, and food and adventure events across Nagaland. The festival has grown into a significant platform for tourism, cultural diplomacy, and economic opportunities, strengthening tribal identity while connecting Nagaland to the world.

56th IFFI Concludes in Goa; ‘Skin of Youth’ Wins Golden Peacock for Best Feature Film

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded on 28 November 2025 with a grand awards ceremony at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant praised the festival as a remarkable convergence of creativity, culture, and global cinematic collaboration. The event featured reflections from actors, directors, and filmmakers, capturing the festival’s global spirit.

A special tribute was paid to legendary actor Dharmendra, and superstar Rajinikanth was honoured for completing 50 years in Indian cinema. Actor Ranveer Singh’s energetic appearance added excitement to the evening.

The festival’s top honour, the Golden Peacock for Best Feature Film, was awarded to ‘Skin of Youth’ directed by Ashleigh Mayfair. The Silver Peacock for Best Director went to Santosh Davakhar for the film Gondhal, while Akinola Davies Junior won the Special Jury Award for My Father’s Shadow.

Awards for Best Actors were presented to Ubeimar Rios (Male) and Jara Sofija Ostan (Female) for their performances in Little TroubleGirls. The Silver Peacock for Best Debut Feature Film was jointly awarded to ‘My Daughter’s Hair’ (Hesam Farahmand) and ‘Fränk’ (Tõnis Pil). The ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal was awarded to ‘Safe House’ directed by Eirik Svensson.

Other notable recognitions included:

  • Best Debut Director (Indian Feature Film): Karan Singh Tyagi for Kesari 2
  • Best OTT Indian Panorama Award: Bandish Bandits 2

The ceremony concluded with celebrations of cinematic excellence, marking a memorable end to IFFI 2025 and reinforcing its legacy of creativity and inspiration in global cinema.

Bollywood Veteran actor Dharmendra passes away at 89

Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, popularly known as the “He-Man of Indian Cinema”, passed away at the age of 89 on 24 November 2025 in Mumbai. Born on 8 December 1935 in Punjab, he had a film career spanning over six decades with more than 300 films. Some of his most iconic movies include Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta and Dharam Veer.

He received several honours during his lifetime, including the Padma Bhushan (2012) for his contribution to Indian cinema. His passing marks the end of an era in Hindi film history.

56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025)

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was held in Goa from 20–28 November 2025, showcasing 240 films from 81 countries and celebrating cinematic excellence.

🏆 – Key Highlights

  • Venue & Dates: Held in Panaji, Goa from 20 to 28 November 2025.
  • Organizers: Jointly organized by NFDC, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, and Entertainment Society of Goa.
  • Global Reach: Featured 240 films from 81 countries; received 3,400+ submissions from 127 nations.
  • Opening Film: Brazilian film “The Blue Trail” inaugurated the festival.
  • Special Tributes:
    • Actor Rajinikanth was honored for his contribution to Indian cinema.
    • John Abraham’s documentary “Oslo: A Tail of Promise” premiered, highlighting animal companionship.
  • Indian Panorama Section: Included 50 films, notably Thudaram and Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM) from Malayalam cinema.
  • Focus on Inclusivity:
    • 50 films by women directors.
    • 21 Oscar-entry films.
    • 50 debutant filmmakers.
  • Tech & Storytelling Theme: Festival theme was “Convergence of Creativity & Technology”.
  • Netflix Participation: Co-hosted Film Bazaar, promoting storytelling, tech innovation, and accessibility.
  • New Initiatives: Introduced the first-ever Grand Opening Parade celebrating India’s cinematic legacy.

India Sends Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha to Bhutan

From November 8–18, 2025, India sent the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha to Bhutan for public exposition, marking a gesture of spiritual solidarity and cultural diplomacy. The event coincided with Bhutan’s Global Peace Prayer Festival and the 70th birthday of the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuk.

Transported by a special Indian Air Force aircraft, the relics were received with full ceremonial honors at Paro International Airport and displayed at Trashichodzong in Thimphu, where thousands of devotees offered prayers. The initiative highlighted the shared Buddhist heritage between India and Bhutan and symbolized peace, compassion, and harmony. The Piprahwa relics, among the earliest discovered remains of Lord Buddha, reaffirm India’s role as a guardian of Buddhist culture and global peace traditions.

International Arya Mahasammelan 2025: 150 Years of Arya Samaj

The International Arya Mahasammelan 2025, held at Swarn Jayanti Park, Rohini (New Delhi) from October 30 to November 2, celebrated 150 years of Arya Samaj, founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati. Delegates from several countries, including the US, Netherlands, Nepal, Uganda, and Suriname, attended the event, highlighting Arya Samaj’s global influence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the gathering, describing Arya Samaj as a symbol of India’s Vedic identity and cultural resurgence. He praised Swami Dayanand for fighting social evils and colonial oppression, and noted the movement’s impact on freedom fighters like Lala Lajpat Rai and Ram Prasad Bismil.

The Mahasammelan featured Vedic chanting, cultural programs, and discussions on education, gender equality, and sustainable development. Organized by the Delhi Arya Pratinidhi Sabha, it promoted youth participation, interfaith harmony, and reaffirmed Arya Samaj’s principles of truth, universal brotherhood, and social upliftment.

Overall, the event was a global tribute to Arya Samaj’s 150-year legacy and its enduring mission to build a just, enlightened, and spiritually grounded society.

Portals of Kedarnath and Yamunotri Dham Closed for Winter on Bhai Dooj 2025

On 23 October 2025, the portals of Shri Kedarnath Dham and Yamunotri Dham, two of Uttarakhand’s revered Char Dham shrines, were ceremoniously closed on the occasion of Bhai Dooj with traditional rituals, chanting of mantras, and grand floral decorations.

At Kedarnath, the temple doors were closed at 8:30 AM, and the Panchmukhi (five-faced) idol of Lord Kedarnath was placed in a Doli (palanquin) to begin its journey to its winter abode at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath. The Doli will reach Ukhimath on 25 October, where the idol will be ceremoniously installed for six months of winter worship.

Similarly, the Yamunotri Dham in Uttarkashi closed its doors at 12:30 PM, and the palanquin of Goddess Yamuna departed for Kharsali, her winter seat, where devotees can continue to offer prayers until the next pilgrimage season.

This year, over 24 lakh devotees visited both Kedarnath and Yamunotri during the pilgrimage season. On the closing day, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami offered prayers at Kedarnath, seeking the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state.

Ningol Chakouba : Manipur’s Festival Celebrating the Bond Between Sisters and Brothers

Manipur celebrated the Ningol Chakouba festival on 23 October 2025, a traditional occasion that strengthens the bond between married women and their brothers along with their paternal families.

Observed annually on the second day of Hiyangei month in the Meitei calendar, the festival involves married women visiting their parental homes with gifts like fruits and vegetables, sharing a grand feast, and receiving gifts from their brothers.

The term Ningol Chakouba translates to “feast of married women.”

Seven Indian Natural Sites Added to UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List

Seven natural heritage sites — including the Deccan Traps (Maharashtra), Meghalaya’s cave systems, and Varkala cliffs (Kerala) — have been added to UNESCO’s Tentative List, raising India’s tally to 69 sites. With this, India now has 49 cultural, 17 natural, and 3 mixed properties under UNESCO’s consideration.

Other newly listed sites include St Mary’s Island (Karnataka), Naga Hill Ophiolite (Nagaland), Erra Matti Dibbalu (Andhra Pradesh), and Tirumala Hills (Andhra Pradesh). The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted the nominations. Entry into the tentative list is the first step toward securing full World Heritage Site status.

Indian filmmaker Anuparna Roy wins Best Director award at Venice Film Festival 2025

Anuparna Roy, Indian filmmaker, won Best Director in the Orizzonti section at the 82nd Venice Film Festival (6 Sept 2025) for her indie film Songs of Forgotten Trees, the only Indian entry in this category.

  • Golden Lion (Best Film): Father Mother Sister Brother by veteran U.S. director Jim Jarmusch.
  • Silver Lion (Runner-up): The Voice of Hind Rajab by Tunisia’s Kaouther Ben Hania.
  • Best Actor: Toni Servillo (La Grazia, Italy).
  • Best Actress: Xin Zhilei (The Sun Rises On Us All, China).
  • Best Director (Main Competition): Benny Safdie (The Smashing Machine).
  • Special Jury Prize: Gianfranco Rosi (Below the Clouds, Italy).

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 – Grand Visarjan

The 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival (Aug 27–Sep 6, 2025) concluded on Anant Chaturdashi with Ganesh Visarjan across India.

Celebrations: Iconic mandals like Lalbaugcha Raja in Mumbai drew lakhs, while Ahmedabad and Hyderabad focused on eco-friendly immersions. Families performed Uttarang Puja at home before immersing idols.

Significance: The festival reinforced devotion, unity, and cultural heritage, ending with the promise: “Come back soon, Bappa!”

Onam: Kerala’s Festival of Unity and Prosperity

Onam 2025 was celebrated on September 5, 2025(Thiruvonam Day). It is Kerala’s biggest harvest festival, marking the annual return of King Mahabali, remembered for his golden reign.

The festival highlights values of unity, equality, and prosperity. Major traditions include Pookalam (floral carpets), Onasadya (feast with 20+ vegetarian dishes), Vallam Kali (snake boat race), Pulikali (tiger dance), and Kaikottikali (women’s dance). Onam is a symbol of abundance and cultural heritage, bringing families and communities together in celebration.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 – Festival of New Beginnings

Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity.

Celebration Dates (2025): From 27 August to 6 September, ending with Ganesh Visarjan on Anant Chaturdashi.

Historical Significance: Though ancient in origin, it became a mass community festival in the late 19th century when Lokmanya Tilak used it to unite Indians during colonial rule.

First BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival in New Delhi on 4 August 2025

India will host the first-ever BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival on 4 August 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Titled ‘SaptaSur: Seven Nations, One Melody’, the event will be inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.

Artists from all seven Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) countries—India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—will showcase their unique musical traditions. Organized by ICCR, this festival reflects India’s commitment to strengthening cultural ties in the region. The event is free and open to all, with entry on a first-come, first-served basis.

71st National Film Awards 2025: 12th Fail Wins Best Film, SRK & Rani Mukerji Among Top Winners

71st National Film Awards were announced on 1 August 2025 in New Delhi by the Jury Chairpersons Ashutosh Gowariker (Feature Film) and P. Sheshadri (Non-Feature Film).

  • Best Film: 12th Fail
  • Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) and Vikrant Massey (12th Fail)
  • Best Actress: Rani Mukerji (Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway)
  • Best Non-Feature Film: Flowering Man (Dir: Soumyajit Ghosh Dastidar)
  • Best Direction: Piyush Thakur
  • Best Documentary: God Vulture and Human
  • Best Popular Film for Wholesome Entertainment: Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
  • Best Film Promoting National, Social, Environmental Values: Sam Bahadur
  • Best Music Direction: GV Prakash Kumar (Vaathi – Tamil)
  • Best Playback Singers: Shilpa Rao (Jawan – Hindi), PVN S Rohit (Baby – Telugu)
  • Best Editing: Pookalam (Malayalam)
  • Best Children’s Film: Naal 2 (Marathi)
  • Best Cinematography: The Kerala Story
  • Best Film Critic: Utpal Dutta

Shravan Shivratri: Devotees perform jalabhishek, offer prayers to Lord Shiva

On 23 July 2025, devotees across India celebrated Shravan Shivratri, one of the holiest days dedicated to Lord Shiva, with immense devotion. The occasion was marked by jalabhishek, special pujas, and mass gatherings at Shiva temples, especially in northern states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh.

Thousands of Kanwariyas offered Ganga water at temples after completing the Kanwar Yatra. Major temples such as Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, Dudheshwarnath in Ghaziabad, and Daksheshwar Mahadev in Uttarakhand witnessed overwhelming crowds.

Scriptures say that worship on this day brings spiritual upliftment and wish fulfillment. The ritual of jalabhishek commemorates Lord Shiva’s act of drinking poison during the Samudra Manthan, earning him the name Neelkantha.

56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa 2025

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will take place in Goa from Nov 20–28, 2025. Organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, NFDC, and Goa government, it will spotlight global cinema, young filmmakers, and India’s rising role as a content hub through the newly named WAVES Film Bazaar.

Top prizes include the Golden Peacock for Best Film (₹40 lakh) and Silver Peacocks in other key categories. Film submissions close on August 31, 2025.

Maratha Military Landscapes of India Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site

On 11 July 2025, the Maratha Military Landscapes of India were officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India’s 44th World Heritage Site.

🔹 Recognized at the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee, this honor celebrates India’s rich cultural and architectural legacy and highlights the strategic brilliance of the Maratha Empire from the 17th to 19th centuries CE.

📍 The inscription includes 12 historic forts spread across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, such as:

  • Raigad, Rajgad, Shivneri, Pratapgad, Vijaydurg, Panhala, Suvarnadurg, Sindhudurg, Lohgad, Salher, Khanderi (Maharashtra)
  • Gingee Fort (Tamil Nadu)

📜 The proposal, submitted in January 2024, underwent a rigorous 18-month evaluation by UNESCO and ICOMOS, culminating in the final decision at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025: Pratham Puja Performed, Yatra Begins 3rd July

On 11 June 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha performed the Pratham Puja at the Holy Cave, marking the ceremonial start of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. He encouraged devotees to visit in large numbers and prayed for the progress of J&K and the nation. He highlighted improved pilgrim facilities and foolproof security by Police, Army, CRPF, and CAPFs.

The Yatra will begin on 3rd July 2025 via both Pahalgam (Anantnag) and Baltal (Ganderbal) routes and will conclude on 9th August (Raksha Bandhan).

The LG also inspected the Baltal Base Camp Hospital and instructed for 24/7 medical readiness, availability of staff, equipment, oxygen, and medicines for the safety of pilgrims.

Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha Arrive in Sarnath Amid Grand Ceremonial Welcome

On June 5, 2025, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha arrived in Sarnath, welcomed with traditional chants, official honours, and the presence of hundreds of monks and devotees at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.

  • The relics began their journey from the National Museum in New Delhi, were flown to Varanasi, and then transported to Sarnath in a ceremonial procession.
  • District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar, the Senior Superintendent of Police, and other dignitaries received the relics at Varanasi airport.
  • The Uttar Pradesh Police presented a guard of honour, while NCC cadets and a ceremonial band also participated.

Key Highlights:

  • A large number of Buddhist monks, nuns, and devotees gathered to pay their respects.
  • Most Venerable Seewali Bhante shared his experience of public reverence in Vietnam, where the relics were previously displayed.
  • Officials from the International Buddhist Confederation, the National Museum, and senior monks were present.
  • The event highlights Sarnath’s global spiritual importance, being the site of Lord Buddha’s first sermon.
  • Part of a larger initiative to strengthen cultural and spiritual ties among global Buddhist communities.

President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates Literary Conference at Rashtrapati Bhavan

On 29 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a two-day Literary Conference at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi. She emphasized the richness of India’s linguistic diversity, noting that its many languages and dialects reflect the spirit of Indianess.

President Murmu spoke on the evolving nature of literature, stating that while the context of love and compassion may change, the core emotional values remain constant. She underlined that modern literature must go beyond didacticism and encourage dialogue and engagement.

The event, organized by the Ministry of Culture and the Sahitya Akademi, aims to spark constructive conversations on themes like:

  • Poets’ Meet
  • Feminist Literature of India
  • Change in Literature vs. Literature of Change
  • New Directions of Indian Literature in Global Perspective

The conference will conclude with a special session on the legacy of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar.

During the event, President Murmu also accepted credentials from envoys of six countries: Thailand, Costa Rica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Turkiye, Bangladesh, and Kazakhstan.

Indian Navy Inducts Ancient Stitched Ship to Revive Maritime Heritage

On 21 May 2025, the Indian Navy inducted an Ancient Stitched Ship during a ceremonial event at Naval Base, Karwar, with Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as the chief guest. This unique vessel is a recreation of a 5th-century CE ship, inspired by a painting from the Ajanta Caves, and was developed under a tripartite agreement signed in July 2023 between the Ministry of Culture, Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations.

Constructed by traditional Kerala artisans led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran, the ship was hand-stitched using ancient techniques. It was launched in February 2025 at Hodi Shipyard, Goa. Without surviving blueprints, the design was recreated using artistic extrapolation, archaeological research, naval architecture, and hydrodynamic testing in collaboration with IIT Madras.

The ship features square sails, steering oars, and a stitched hull, offering a striking contrast to modern vessels. The Indian Navy supervised the project, ensuring historical authenticity while maintaining seaworthiness.

With its induction, the project enters Phase 2, aiming to sail along ancient maritime trade routes, starting with a voyage from Gujarat to Oman, symbolizing a revival of India’s seafaring heritage.

President Confers 58th Jnanpith Award to Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and Gulzar

On May 16, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the 58th Jnanpith Award at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi to:

  • Jagadguru Rambhadracharya – a renowned Sanskrit scholar, honored for his extraordinary literary contributions, including over 240 books and four epics, despite being visually impaired.
  • Gulzar – an acclaimed poet and lyricist, celebrated for his impact on Hindi and Urdu literature. He was unable to attend due to illness.

The Jnanpith Award, instituted in 1965 by Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, honors outstanding literary work in Indian languages.

President Murmu praised both laureates and emphasized that literature unites and awakens society, highlighting the historical role of writers in India’s freedom struggle and social reform.

This ceremony highlighted India’s rich literary heritage, honoring the wisdom, creativity, and dedication of two iconic figures.

Cannes 2025 Opens with Tributes, Critiques, and a Strong Indian Presence

The 78th Cannes Film Festival opened in grand style on May 13, 2025, on the French Riviera, marking the start of a 12-day global celebration of cinema. At the opening ceremony, Robert De Niro received an honorary Palme d’Or, presented by Leonardo DiCaprio, and used his speech to criticize U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 100% tariffs on foreign films.

The event featured the premiere of “Leave One Day” by Amélie Bonnin and a musical tribute to David Lynch by Mylène Farmer. Jury president Juliette Binoche addressed issues like war, climate change, and misogyny, and paid tribute to Palestinian photojournalist Fatima Hassouna, recently killed in Gaza.

India has a strong presence at Cannes 2025:

  • Payal Kapadia, Indian jury member, expressed gratitude for representing India.
  • Satyajit Ray’s 1970 classic “Aranyer Din Ratri” will screen in the Classics section.
  • Neeraj Ghaywan’s “Homebound” is selected for Un Certain Regard.
  • Anupam Kher debuts as director with “Tanvi: The Great”, premiering at Marché du Film.
  • SRFTI’s “A Doll Made Up of Clay” will also be showcased.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to Resume from June 30, 2025

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is set to resume on June 30, 2025, after a four-year suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pilgrimage will be conducted via the Uttarakhand route under the supervision of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Government of Uttarakhand, with Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) managing the operations.

The yatra will start from Delhi, proceeding through Lipulekh Pass in Pithoragarh district to enter China. 250 pilgrims, divided into five batches of 50, will undertake this 22-day spiritual journey. The first group enters China on July 10, and the last group returns by August 22.

Important stopovers include Tanakpur, Dharchula, Gunji, and Nabhidhang on the way to Kailash, and Bundi, Chaukori, and Almora on the return route.

To ensure safety, medical screenings will be carried out in Delhi and Gunji, supported by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).

Book ‘Sanskriti Ka Panchva Adhyay’ a compilation of PM Modi’s speeches, launched in New Delhi

A book titled Sanskriti Ka Panchva Adhyay, a compilation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speeches, was launched in New Delhi on 18 April 2025.

The book was released by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri, head of the Juna Akhara, and the event was presided over by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh.

Key highlights:

  • The book reflects PM Modi’s commitment to preserving India’s culture, traditions, and spiritual values.
  • Harivansh praised the Prime Minister’s role in safeguarding India’s cultural heritage.
  • Swami Avdheshanand Giri noted that since 2014, there has been innovation and a cultural transformation across India.
  • He emphasized that cultural topics are now discussed with more depth and pride in the country.

Gita and Natyashastra included in UNESCO’s Memory of World Register

The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, a noted Hindu scripture, and the Natyashastra, an Indian treatise on performing arts, have been included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register on April 17, 2025. This recognition highlights their exceptional universal value and profound impact on human civilization.

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, is a cornerstone of India’s spiritual and philosophical traditions. Comprising 700 verses, it addresses profound questions about duty, selflessness, and devotion, synthesizing elements from Vedic, Buddhist, Jain, and Carvaka traditions. Its teachings have inspired countless individuals and scholars worldwide.

The Natyashastra, attributed to the sage Bharat Muni, is a foundational treatise on Indian performing arts, encompassing theatre, dance, and music. It has shaped classical art traditions for centuries and remains a guiding text for artists and scholars. Its insights into aesthetics and performance continue to influence the global artistic community.

With this addition, India now has 14 entries in the prestigious Memory of the World Register.  

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