Over the years, various groups in India have pushed a narrative that India is more than a nation state bounded by ethno-linguistic or territorial boundaries, but rather a civilization. This narrative is clear through seemingly benign acts like the creation of International Day of Yoga, but in recent years has been infused with certain nationalist sentiments.
A new special section in the March issue of International Affairs uncovers India’s cultural and political claims to being a ‘civilization’ and its impact on India’s national and international relations. This event will draw on the research to explore India’s external relations through UNESCO, the World Hindu Economic Forum and in South Asia, as well as the impact of narratives around yoga, traditional medicine and more.
This event is held under the Chatham House Rule.
