BRICS Nations United by Shared Culture, Peace, and Mutual Respect: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Bhopal

BRICS member states share a bond that goes beyond political and economic ties, resting on a foundation of shared heritage, peaceful co-existence, mutual respect, and inclusive growth. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat highlighted this perspective on Friday while addressing the BRICS Cultural Festival at Ravindra Bhavan, held alongside the 3rd BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting.

Welcoming delegates to Bhopal—the city of lakes—Shekhawat emphasized that while languages and traditions vary across BRICS nations, artistic expressions like music and dance act as a universal bridge connecting diverse civilizations in hope and friendship.

Highlighting Madhya Pradesh’s Civilizational Roots

The Union Minister highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and historical legacy of the host state, describing Madhya Pradesh as an ancient crossroads of ideas, art, and philosophy:

• Ancient Landmarks: The prehistoric rock shelters of Bhimbetka, the peaceful stupas of Sanchi, and the architectural brilliance of Khajuraho showcase India’s long-standing civilisational journey.
• Living Traditions: The vibrant heritage of local tribal communities reflects the state’s enduring cultural diversity.
• Core Philosophy: Grounded in traditional concepts like “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) and “Atithi Devo Bhava” (the guest is equivalent to God), Indian hospitality remains a profound cultural value rather than a mere formality.

Highlights of the BRICS Cultural Festival

The festival brought together artists from across member nations to celebrate unity through diverse artistic performances:

• Invocation & Musical Fusion: The showcase opened with the traditional invocation “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah”, followed by “Colours of Indian Music”, a fusion of Hindustani and Carnatic classical traditions.
• Global Collaboration: The highlight was the “BRICS Peace Song”, featuring musical contributions from member countries, including Belarus, Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE. In a unique gesture of unity, the Indian choir rendered the peace chant “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah” in the native languages of participating nations.
• Grand Finale: The musical session concluded with collaborative performances titled “Peace to All, Harmony to All” and “Crescendo of Unity”.

Cultural Showcase: “Amritasya Madhya Pradesh”

A major highlight of the evening was a 35-minute dance-drama titled “Amritasya Madhya Pradesh”, produced by the Madhya Pradesh Culture Department:

• Production Scale: Directed by choreographer Maitreyi Pahadi with lighting design by Anup ‘Bunty’ Joshi, the production featured over 125 performers.
• Artistic Blend: The performance seamlessly integrated 12 distinct dance forms—combining classical styles (Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Manipuri), contemporary dance, and regional folk forms such as Gond, Baiga, Gudumbaja, Matki, Badhai, and Baredi.
• Thematic Scope: The show depicted UNESCO World Heritage sites, spiritual narratives connected to Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, holy sites including Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar, historical figures like Raja Bhoj, the sacred Narmada River, and preparations for Simhastha 2028.
• Textile Presentation: The event also featured a special showcase celebrating the traditional handlooms, textiles, and iconic prints of Madhya Pradesh.