Sanskar to Superpower: India's Cultural Metamorphosis

In a groundbreaking analysis released today, called for India to take a fresh look at its global influence through the lens of cultural diplomacy. While possessing one of the most culturally disparate ecosystems, India's ability to leverage soft power remains behind the curve. The action plan makes a point of emphasizing a systematic integration of cultural outreach into its foreign policy, particularly given China's aggressive engagement in shaping the pursuit of its global influence.

Recommendations include expanding the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, proactively and strategically promoting Bollywood and Indian media abroad, scalable access to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting news content and multi-lingual programming, and establishing cultural diplomacy as an expressed priority in South Asia. The authors and experts also point out that as international narratives become more contested, cultural diplomacy is not just an artistic endeavor but a strategic necessity as India continues to pursue its global standing and effort to push back against difficult foreign narratives.

Source: The Diplomat