“I come from a country and civilization that gave the world the word that precedes silence and is followed by more silence. That word is Ohm.”
These profound words by the legendary sound designer Rasool Pookutty, spoken during his acceptance of the prestigious Oscar, encapsulate the essence of India’s timeless legacy. They serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of India’s past in shaping its present and future.

From a civilization that boasts over 5,000 years of history to a nation that upholds the ideals of democracy and social justice, India has consistently been a beacon of inspiration for the world. Its unique heritage teaches us to cherish our motherland while respecting the sovereignty and existence of neighboring nations—a value deeply rooted in the Vedic era. Lord Rama, an eternal symbol of truthfulness and obedience, proclaimed, “Janani Janma Bhoomischa Swargadapi Gariyasi” (Mother and motherland are greater than heaven). Similarly, the cultural ethos of India emphasizes respect for parents and teachers above all, as reflected in the saying, “Matha, Pitha, Guru, Daivam”.

In an era of rapid technological advancements, the teachings of ancient Indian traditions remain profoundly relevant. The Gurukul system, which fostered a sacred and focused approach to education, is celebrated worldwide and has inspired the establishment of modern knowledge parks integrating advanced technology. The epics Ramayana and Mahabharata highlight not only ethical and spiritual values but also India’s rich biodiversity and the importance of ecological balance. The legend of Maruthwamala, a hill in the Western Ghats abundant in medicinal plants, is no longer a myth but a scientifically validated truth as researchers continue to discover new species with extraordinary healing properties.

However, the global acclaim for India’s biodiversity also underscores a stark reality—the loss of patent rights for endemic plant varieties like turmeric due to negligence. This serves as a poignant reminder of the need to safeguard our heritage. India’s ancient civilizations, such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, showcased remarkable advancements in urban planning and infrastructure that continue to inspire modern architecture and urban development.

The contributions of Indian scholars to philosophy, mathematics, and astronomy are unparalleled. The invention of zero and pi, along with Aryabhata’s groundbreaking work in astronomy, highlight India’s intellectual supremacy. Chanakya’s Arthashastra stands as a timeless guide to statecraft, politics, and economics, while the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath symbolizes governance, power, and nobility. Even during the Mughal era, Emperor Akbar’s concept of Din-e-Ilahi exemplified secularism, inclusivity, and coexistence.

India’s architectural marvels, from the Madurai Meenakshi Temple and Sun Temple to the Taj Mahal, epitomize artistic brilliance and eternal grandeur. The sacred groves, which embody the principle of ecological conservation through reverence, offer lessons in coexistence that the modern world cannot afford to ignore.

The teachings of Lord Buddha on self-respect and compassion continue to inspire humanity, while Swami Vivekananda’s historic address at the Chicago Parliament of Religions remains a cornerstone in the global dialogue on harmony and peace. Western acceptance of Indian traditions such as yoga reflects the universal appeal of practices that connect the body and soul to the eternal truth.

As the world’s largest democracy, India epitomizes the idea of unity in diversity. For over 75 years since independence, we have demonstrated that differences in tradition, language, culture, and gender can coexist harmoniously. Guided by the philosophy of universal peace, encapsulated in the phrase “Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavanthu” (May all beings everywhere be happy), India continues its journey as a role model for the world.