India’s rich literary and historical heritage has received another moment of international recognition. Three of the country’s most significant classical works — the Mahabharata, Kautilya’s Arthashastra and Kalhana’s Rajatarangini — have been added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register.
UNESCO Recognises Mahabharata, Arthashastra & Rajatarangini
The announcement was made on November 5, following the 11th session of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific in Jakarta, Indonesia. With these additions, India’s total inscriptions on the regional register have increased to six.
The recognition celebrates not just the stories and ideas contained in these works, but also the manuscripts that have preserved India’s knowledge and history for generations.
Each of the three works represents a different aspect of India’s intellectual and cultural history.
1. Mahabharata
Traditionally attributed to sage Ved Vyasa, the Mahabharata is one of the longest epic poems in the world. It revolves around the conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas, culminating in the Kurukshetra war.
However, the epic goes beyond the story of a battle for a kingdom. It explores themes of duty, morality, justice, relationships and the complexities of human life. It also contains the Bhagavad Gita, in which Lord Krishna guides Arjuna through his moral dilemma on the battlefield.
2. Arthashastra
Written by ancient Indian philosopher and strategist Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, the Arthashastra is a treatise on governance, administration and political economy.
The text discusses everything from taxation and trade to diplomacy, military strategy, law and the responsibilities of a ruler. It offers an insight into how ancient Indian thinkers approached statecraft and the running of a kingdom.
3. Rajatarangini
Written by 12th-century Kashmiri historian Kalhana, Rajatarangini is a historical chronicle documenting the rulers and dynasties of Kashmir.
Composed in Sanskrit, it records the region’s political history, successive kings, conflicts and social developments. It is regarded as one of the most significant early works of historical writing in the Indian subcontinent.
What Is UNESCO’s Memory Of The World Register?
According to NDTV, UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme was launched in 1992 to preserve and improve access to important documentary heritage, including manuscripts, historical records and archives.
The latest recognition is part of its Asia-Pacific Regional Register, which highlights documentary heritage of particular significance to the region.
Before these additions, India had three works on the regional register: the Ramcharitmanas, the Panchatantra and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana, all recognised in 2024.
With the Mahabharata, Arthashastra and Rajatarangini joining the list, India now has six inscriptions on the register. The recognition is a reminder of the country’s rich intellectual heritage and the importance of preserving manuscripts that offer a glimpse into its past.
Also Read: Sarnath Added To UNESCO World Heritage List; Becomes India’s 45th World Heritage Site
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@gssjodhpur
FAQs
Which three Indian texts have been added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register?
The Mahabharata, Kautilya's Arthashastra and Kalhana's Rajatarangini have been added to the register.
What is UNESCO's Memory of the World Register?
It is a programme that identifies and promotes the preservation of important documentary heritage, including manuscripts, archives and historical records.
How many Indian works are now on UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register?
India now has six inscriptions on the regional register following the latest additions.
