New Delhi, also known as Nayi Dilli or Indraprastha, made a significant cultural statement at the United Nations on Tuesday, starting with the greeting “Namaste from Bharat” and ending with a reference to “India that is Bharat.”
However, it’s important to note that the name India was not forgotten. External affairs minister S. Jaishankar mentioned India more than a dozen times in his speech at the UN General Assembly. He emphasized that India has much to share and highlighted India’s initiatives.
Despite the mention of India, there was a clear presence of Sanskrit and universal influence in Jaishankar’s remarks. He spoke of India’s transformation from non-alignment to becoming a Vishwa Mitra, a friend to the world. He also mentioned India’s entry into the period of “Amrit Kaal,” a quarter century that holds the promise of greater progress and transformation.
In his concise yet extensive speech, Jaishankar expressed India’s global aspirations and responsibilities, purposefully avoiding any references to Pakistan and China, which are typically contentious topics.
“Our vision of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ aims to address the concerns of the many, not just the narrow interests of a few… The international order is diverse, and we must accommodate differences, if not resolve them. The days when a few nations dictated the agenda are over,” Jaishankar asserted.
He emphasized that he represents a society where the ancient traditions of democracy have successfully integrated with modern values. As a result, India’s thinking, approaches, and actions are now more deeply rooted and authentic. India, as a civilizational polity, embraces both tradition and technology with equal confidence. This fusion is what defines India, or Bharat, today.
In conclusion, New Delhi conveyed a powerful message at the United Nations, highlighting India’s cultural heritage, global aspirations, and commitment to inclusivity and progress.
