India Hosts International Conference on Maritime Culture
In a significant move to strengthen maritime partnerships and cultural ties, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) is hosting a two-day international conference titled “Monsoon: The Sphere of Cultural and Trade Influence.” This event is organized in collaboration with the Advanced Study Institute of Asia (ASIA) at SGT University. The conference aims to explore the historical and cultural connections among Indian Ocean nations through maritime interactions. It highlights India’s pivotal role in shaping trade, traditions, and connectivity across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The inaugural session commenced today at IGNCA in New Delhi and will run until February 13, 2025.
The conference is part of “Project Mausam,” an Indian initiative under the Ministry of Culture. It seeks to showcase India’s transnational influence and its rich maritime heritage. The event features prominent speakers, including Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, who delivered the keynote address. Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe and Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, also contributed to the discussions.
Cultural Connections in the Indian Ocean Region
During his address, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and the Indian Ocean Region. He pointed out that India’s cultural influence extends beyond commerce and trade. It is deeply embedded in the nation’s intellectual and knowledge traditions. Shekhawat noted that the cultural impact of India is evident in the diverse interactions with those who visited as students, monks, or even aggressors. These interactions have fostered a rich tapestry of cultural exchange over thousands of years.
The minister also highlighted the unique vision of “Project Mausam,” which aims to showcase a Transnational Mixed Route of Natural and Cultural Heritage. He stated, “The world realizes that culture is the factor that unites us all.” This initiative is particularly timely, as India recently concluded a Maritime Cooperation Dialogue with France, focusing on joint measures to address maritime security threats in the IOR. These threats include piracy, maritime terrorism, and illegal fishing.
Themes of the Conference
The conference will delve into several key themes, including ancient navigational routes, port city networks, and coastal settlements. By integrating both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, “Project Mausam” aims to highlight India’s ongoing leadership in fostering connectivity and maritime partnerships. This initiative also contributes to UNESCO’s maritime heritage studies, reinforcing India’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural legacy.
Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, in his address, emphasized the importance of cultural foundations in India-Southeast Asia relations. He called for a renewed intellectual and emotional investment to integrate Southeast Asia into India’s popular consciousness. Sahasrabuddhe urged participants to move beyond Eurocentric perspectives and to deepen cultural engagement through India’s Act East policy. He stressed the need to strengthen cultural, strategic, and economic ties, while also addressing climate change and promoting collaborative art and craft.
Future Directions for Cultural Diplomacy
Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi highlighted IGNCA’s ongoing efforts to explore cultural routes and linkages beyond the initially identified 39 countries. He noted that over 70 countries share cultural heritage with India. This emphasis on international cooperation aligns with the G20 summit’s motto, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “the world is one family.” The conference serves as a catalyst for expanding these studies and fostering deeper cultural diplomacy.
Prof. Amogh Rai discussed the monsoon as both a physical and cultural force, underscoring its role as a cultural multiplier. He expressed optimism about the conference’s potential for further research. Dr. Ajith Kumar concluded the inaugural session by emphasizing the cultural unity between India and Southeast Asian countries.
Overall, IGNCA’s international conference aims to pave the way for future policy dialogues, academic collaborations, and heritage conservation. This initiative aligns seamlessly with India’s evolving maritime strategies and international partnerships, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to cultural diplomacy in the Indian Ocean Region.
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