India’s contribution to world wisdom

India is a country where going from one latitude to the other, we find different languages, food, clothing, and lifestyles. Such diversity adds up to a bundle of knowledge that contributes to the world’s wisdom.

Wisdom is exactly that, a bundle of knowledge. Owing to India’s rich history, culture, traditions, and innovations, it has continuously contributed towards the betterment of the world as per our values of ‘vasudhev kutumbakam’, the world is one big family.

Going back in time to the Indus Valley days, the system of urban planning and the use of burnt bricks in a ratio of 4:2:1 was our contribution to the world. In addition to that, a network of sound drainage systems and the worship of nature were also our gifts to the world.
By the 5th century BC, India was the birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism, which propagated a new way of life. It helped in the attainment of peace and a joyful life for people across the world. That was our contribution to the world.

By the 5th century AD, India had knowledge of Astrology, Mathematics, and medicine. Principles of trigonometry, Pythagoras’ theorem, and the invention of zero were our contributions to the world. In medicine, we gave the system of Yoga and Ayurveda. Sushruta Samhita gave a description of a variety of diseases and their care. Ancient literature like Gita and Tolkaṉiyam are books of ethics and morality. Arthashastra by Kautilya may be called the first book on administration. Epics from poets like Kalidasa, along with all of the above, are our contributions to world literature.

 The system of classical dances like Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, and Odissi form a part of the world’s dances. We also gave the systems of Hindustani and Carnatic Music to world music.
During Ancient and medieval times, India was a melting pot of a variety of cultures. Different kings belonging to different religions, sects, varnas ruled various parts of the nation. The rise of the Bhakti movement gave the world movements like Sufism.

British colonialism resulted in the destruction of our socio-cultural traditions. The freedom movement, however, gave the world the philosophy of non-violence. We displayed how a revolution can be successful without the use of force.

 Post-Independence, one of our biggest gifts to the world was democracy. Earlier, it was a privilege of rich-developed nations. By successfully conducting the first general elections, we democratized the idea of democracy for poor and developing nations.

During the Cold War era, when countries were siding with either USA or Russia, India was the founder of the Non-Aligned Movement. The idea of Strategic autonomy and Panchsheel were our contributions to world relations. In a world that is increasingly getting divided across lines of religion, race, ethnicity, and language, India serves as a living example of unity in diversity. A person may be Sikh and Bengali or Jain and Gujarati; what ties us together is the feeling of being Indian, just like any soldier at the border.

India’s idea of secularism, which is equal-distance and equal protection to all religions, is our contribution to the world. Countries like France can learn from us when they allow blasphemy which can breed hatred and violence, as seen recently.

In the field of Science and Technology, we have achieved various spectacular things. Mangalyaan’s success on the very first try using indigenously developed technology was a symbol of pride and a contribution to all developing nations. They can dream big and achieve anything they want.

Our traditional knowledge in disaster management is very much relevant today. Andaman tribes with the help of their traditional knowledge have survived Tsunami waves which cause heavy destruction of property and loss of life.

While India has had a huge contribution to world wisdom, there are lessons we can learn from the world too. Scandinavian countries serve as good examples of how to empower women and bring social development. Such lessons can help in India’s socio-economic growth.

Japan, despite being struck by atomic bombs and facing natural disasters, always builds back better. We can learn a lot from them on disaster management and improving our resilience to disasters.

Bhutan, one of our all-weather friendly neighbors, teaches us how to live in harmony with the environment. The Gross National Happiness is an innovative way to measure a country’s growth.

Thus, India has contributed to the well-being and wisdom of the world ever since the inception of time. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to strive for excellence and walk on the path laid by our nation builders so we can continue to contribute to the wisdom of the world. As Mark Twain said,

“India is the cradle of human race, the birthplace of human history, and great grandmother of traditions. Our most artistic and valuable materials are treasured in India only.”