Why India’s growth story must be rooted in its civilisational ethos

India stands at a defining moment. As we continue to emerge as the fastest growing economies in the world, the momentum of our growth is visible, measurable and widely celebrated. At one point in time, India contributed more than 25% to the world’s GDP. Its economic superiority also helped create the ‘golden age’ across cultural fields be it art, architecture, food or performing arts.

The story changed with colonial subjugation amplified with methods like Macaulay’s policies which further isolated and pushed back India into the cognitive dark ages. As generations lived through a servitude mindset, we replaced high thinking with rote memorisation and ancient knowledge and confidence with cultural skepticism and dissociation.

The consequences are visible as ‘haldi-doodh’ must compete with turmeric latte and the craft of ‘Kolhapuri chappals’ needs the embossing of global luxury brands like Prada to gain recognition.

When a nation develops its culture, it unlocks the ability to adapt, re-invent and build the confidence and resilience to ride through cycles of glory and setbacks. Our cultural wealth has power to catalyse and regenerate cycles of economic growth. Prime Minister Narendra Modiji has echoed this, framing Virasat (heritage) and Vikas (development) as interconnected and interdependent. 

Our rich heritage and culture give us the unique advantage of creating a global brand that cannot be replicated. The process of strengthening this identity has begun, as we reignite our pride in our values and traditions. PM Modi’s “Panch Pran” (Five Pledges) seeks to neutralize the “slave mentality” and cultural revival is one of the key freeing mechanisms in this journey.

Take the example of Ayurveda. Our centuries-old knowledge of holistic and preventive healthcare is gaining global recognition today. Initiatives like establishment of the All India Institute of Ayurveda, the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, and the Heal in India  and Ayusha Visa  initiatives  have opened the door to global medical tourism, built on the back of India’s unique ancient knowledge systems.

From Vaccine Maitri to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the global community is equally applauding India’s soft power which is deeply rooted in our cultural philosophies and has given India a distinct and respected global standing. 

As we continue to build infrastructure and ecosystems, our performing arts industry can contribute to our growth story, driving employment and revenue generation. From films to handicrafts, India is emerging as a centre of multi-crore export industry powered by artisans from all over the country.

This revival is also positioning India as a global voice in sustainable development. Mindful consumption, recycling and environmental compatibility to circular economy are inbuilt in the Indian DNA.

Through initiatives like Mission LiFE, we are showing the world that ancient Indian principles are the modern answers to climate challenges. We are not just participating in the global economy; we are redefining it.

A significant part of this cultural revival will depend on our investments and promotion of our cultural assets and heritage symbols which can become valuable sources of both economic growth and global influence. 

With initiatives such as Adopt-a-Heritage and National Culture Fund, a clear shift in momentum is visible. These efforts are reshaping how we perceive our heritage, not as something just confined and preserved in museums or archives but as a living continuum embedded in our daily consciousness inspiring confidence and pride. 

There is no place for any “historical amnesia” which can weaken institutions, deepen social division, and create a society easily manipulated by misinformation and distrust.  

To the Gen Z’s and the Gen Alpha’s of India, I would like to remind them that they have the responsibility to sustain this ‘historic revival’ that we are witnessing today. Cultural revival is not a retreat into the past. It is the fuel for India’s economic future.

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