India's Top 10 Cultural Exports to the World

When I look out of my window in Delhi, I marvel at the rich tapestry that surrounds India’s artistic heritage. Perhaps there is patriotism in the air due to the ongoing and intense elections. From the towering Qutub Minar to the beauty of the Taj Mahal to the melodies of Carnatic music, our ancestral land has left an indelible mark on global culture. Let’s embark on a journey through the top 10 cultural contributions that shaped the world. 

1. Indian Cinema:

Beyond Bollywood Bollywood is the heartbeat of Indian cinema, offering great songs and dance sequences, larger-than-life storylines, and star-studded characters, as well as films like "Lagaan" and "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge," which are spectacularly upcoming and will take audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark. But India’s creativity extends beyond the glamour of Bollywood.

Masters like Satyajit Ray achieved cross-border global acclaim with deeply human films like "Pather Panchali" and "Charulata," with an honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement. A visionary like Helmed by Shyam Benegal and Adoor Gopalakrishnan, the parallel film tackles social issues in a gripping reality that grips the soul .

Bollywood’s influence on Hollywood is undeniable. The unique style and musical elements make a lasting impression. The vibrant colours, dance sequences, and emotional depth of Bollywood films have inspired Hollywood filmmakers and audiences. The global success of Bollywood has brought the two industries together, with Hollywood studios recognising the potential of Indian cinema and television.

2. Books and Literary Heroes

India’s literary heroes have left an indelible mark on the literary world. The first non-European Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore, is best known for his masterpiece of poetry, "Gitanjali," for which he won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. Vikram Seth's masterpiece poem "A Suitable Boy" is a remarkable story that goes back to the north of 1913 . the social and political landscape of independent India captivates readers through its complex history.

3. Indian art and visionaries:

The fine tapestry of Indian art was created by Raja Ravi Varma and M.F. Hussain. Ravi Varma’s realistic paintings of Indian mythology and historical figures were revolutionary in Indian art, while Hussain’s bold and vibrant paintings captured the essence of Indian cultures. Their work inspires and affects art lovers around the world.

_{Raja Ravi Varma's Yashoda and MF Husin's Krishna (Right)}

4. Architectural wonders:

Indian architectural masterpieces, such as Agra's iconic Taj Mahal and the magnificent Khajuraho Temple, showcase the country's rich cultural heritage and architectural genius. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal symbolises eternal romance and Mughal majesty, attracting millions of visitors per year. Khajuraho temples stand as a testament to India’s architectural heritage and are known for their intricate sculptures and spiritual scenes.

5. Classical music and dance:

Indian classical songs and dances are inspired by ancient traditions and have captivated audiences around the world. With ragas and complex notes in Carnatic music, MS. Subbulakshmi wowed the audience, showcasing the depth and complexity of India’s musical heritage. Hindustani classical music, which includes masters like Ravi Shankar and Ustad Bismillah Khan in the latter, has won international acclaim for its soulful and beautiful melodies.

6. Fashion and Textiles:

The sari is a celebration of chic and elegance and epitomises Indian fashion and textile history. Traditional costumes, including the fabulous weaves of Banarasi silks and silk saris in extravagant colours such as Kanjeevaram saris, speak to the craftsmanship and weaving tradition of India. Khadi, the ‘cloth of India’s freedom’ endorsed by Mahatma Gandhi, is today regarded across the fashion sector as the symbol of autonomy and sustainability.

7. Culinary Art and Spices:

It is difficult to name a cuisine-rich country with a more diverse spectrum of tastes and flavours than India. Spices such as cinnamon and turmeric add flavour and a degree of Indian food character while providing outstanding health advantages.

8. Theatre and Performing Arts:

India’s rich heritage of theatre and performing arts ranged from the humble rural folk theatre nautanki to the brilliant floor-art rangoli. Drawing inspiration from Indian mythology and great histories, Nautanki amuses and edifies its audience with a mix of drama, music, and humour. Rangoli is an intricate representation of the vibrancy and variety of Indian culture, as well as its flair for artistry.

9. Handicrafts and Traditional Crafts:

From the exquisite Pashmina shawls of Kashmir to the beautifully coloured Madhubani paintings on the walls of Bihar, traditional Indian arts and crafts show the nation’s creative side. These abilities have been passed down from generation to generation and from community to community, recording and describing the various cultural and social perspectives of each.

• Pashmina Shawls: Pashmina shawls are made from the wool of the Changthangi goats, which obitayushchie in the harsh climate of the Himalayas. The shawls are valued for their warmth, softness, and elaborate design. 
  
• Madhubani Paintings: Madhubani paintings are from the Mithila region of Bihar and depict mythological stories, folklore, and scenes from mundane life. The paintings are very colourful; women have traditionally transferred them onto walls with natural dyes and pigments.

10. Film Music and Dance Sequences 

The enchanting music and dance numbers of Indian cinema are what truly breathe magic into it. The spirit of the story is captured in the fluid movement of dance.

• Legendary Voices: Vocalists like Lata Mangeshkar, whose melodious voice, A.R. Rahman, known for his innovative music, "Mozart of Madras," has defined the music scene of Indian cinema. Their contributions have crossed borders and influenced not only Bollywood but the global music industry as well.
  
• Energetic Choreography: Bollywood dance sequences are known for their vibrant colours, dramatic choreography, and compelling storylines. Blending traditional Indian dances with contemporary styles, these energetic shows have become an iconic representation of Indian culture and entertainment.

The enduring legacy of India

India’s artistic heritage is a symphony of creativity that continues to resonate across continents. From the celluloid dreams of Bollywood to the timeless verses of Tagore, the fabric of Indian art continues to inspire, innovate, and inspire the world. This rich heritage is a source of national pride and a testament to the enduring power of human beings in creation.

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