Kalhaṇa’s Rajatarangini earns UNESCO recognition, puts Kashmir’s heritage on global map
In a major international recognition of Kashmir’s literary and historical heritage, Kalhaṇa’s Rajatarangini has been inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register, alongside the Mahabharata and Arthashastra. The 12th-century chronicle, widely regarded as a landmark work of historical writing, has brought the intellectual legacy of Kashmir into the global spotlight.
The Mahabharata and Kauṭilya’s Arthashastra — have also been inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. The recognition celebrates centuries-old traditions of historical writing, philosophical inquiry and political thought, while placing Kashmir’s celebrated literary heritage on the international stage.
The Culture Ministry announced this on X “A proud moment for India’s cultural and literary heritage! The Rājataraṅgiṇī of Kalhaṇa (a 12th-century chronicle of Kashmir), the Mahābhārata (a perennial epic of South Asia) and the Arthaśāstra of Kauṭilya (a text on governance and statecraft) have been inscribed on the prestigious @UNESCO’s Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP) Regional Register”.
“This recognition celebrates India’s rich legacy of historical documentation, literary excellence, philosophical knowledge traditions that continue to inspire generations across the world”.
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister Culture & Tourism, also wrote on X; “A moment of immense pride for India! The inclusion of Rājataraṅgiṇī, Mahābhārata and Arthaśāstra in @UNESCO Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register is a landmark recognition of India’s extraordinary documentary and civilisational heritage”.
“These timeless works embody our rich traditions of historical inquiry, philosophical thought and statecraft, whose wisdom continues to inspire humanity”.
“Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, India’s civilisational legacy is receiving unprecedented global recognition and its rightful place on the world stage”, the Minister added.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has expressed joy and pride over the inscription of Kalhaṇa’s Rajatarangini, Mahabharata and Arthasastra into UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register.
The Lieutenant Governor has posted on X: “Proud moment for Jammu Kashmir & the nation! Kalhaṇa’s Rajatarangini, Mahabharata & Arthasastra have been inscribed in @UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. The inclusion of Rajatarangini celebrates UT’s rich intellectual heritage”.
“This global recognition reaffirms the timeless value of India’s civilisational traditions and their contribution to humanity, reminding us of our collective responsibility to preserve and promote this invaluable wisdom for future generations.” He added.