Asia Press Agency

Tag: India’s history

  • G20 Booklet Praises Mughal Emperor Akbar for Democracy

    G20 Booklet Praises Mughal Emperor Akbar for Democracy

    At the G20 Summit, the central government of India released two booklets that delve into the country’s historical roots dating back to 6,000 BCE. The booklets, titled “Bharat, The Mother of Democracy” and “Elections in India,” were handed over to dignitaries at the summit, shedding light on various aspects of India’s history such as Akbar and democratic traditions.

     

    One of the booklets, “Bharat, The Mother of Democracy,” highlights the role of Mughal Emperor Akbar in promoting peace and democracy in ancient India. According to the booklet, Akbar introduced the doctrine of “Sulh-i-Kuli,” which advocated universal peace as a means to combat religious discrimination. To foster a harmonious society, he even established a syncretic religion called ‘Din-i-llahi’ or Divine Faith. Additionally, Akbar created the ‘Ibadat Khana’ or House of Worship, where scholars and thinkers from different religious backgrounds convened to engage in debates. A council of nine wise individuals, known as Navaratna, served as his advisors while implementing pro-people initiatives.

     

    The booklet commends Akbar’s democratic thinking as being ahead of its time, emphasizing that India has a long history of valuing the views and will of the people in governance.

     

    However, the praise for Akbar in the G20 booklet has not been without controversy. Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal took a dig at the government, suggesting that it presents one face to the world and another to India. He pointed to the G20 booklet titled “Bharat: The Mother of Democracy,” particularly highlighting the 38th page that discusses Akbar.

     

    The booklet states, “Good administration should embrace everyone’s welfare, regardless of religion. That was the kind of democracy the third Mughal Padishah Akbar practiced.”

     

    Sibal, in a critical comment, stated, “G20 Magazine: Government hails Mughal emperor Akbar as proponent of peace and democracy! One face: For the world another: For India that is Bharat! Please inform us about the real ‘mann ki baat’!”

     

    Sibal’s remark reflects the ongoing debate and political discourse in India surrounding historical figures and their roles in shaping the nation’s past. Akbar’s legacy is a subject of contention in Indian politics, with various interpretations of his rule and policies.

     

    The G20 booklet’s praise of Akbar’s democratic ideals and pursuit of peace reflects the government’s attempt to portray a particular image on the international stage. However, it also serves as a reminder of the complexities and diverse perspectives that shape India’s historical narratives and contemporary political discourse.

  • Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum- India’s Historical Odyssey

    Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum- India’s Historical Odyssey

    The Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum is on its way to becoming the largest museum globally, presenting a monumental endeavor that aims to showcase India’s history over an extensive period of 5,000 years. Consisting of eight thematic segments, this ambitious project is set to narrate the country’s fascinating and diverse civilizational culture.

     

    Located at the heart of India’s capital, the museum will be housed in the North and South blocks, covering an impressive area of 1.17 lakh sqm and boasting 950 rooms spread over a basement and three storeys, as reported by PTI. With such an expansive space, the Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum seeks to provide an immersive and comprehensive experience for visitors.

     

    On the occasion of International Museum Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched a virtual walkthrough of the upcoming museum. The inaugural event took place during the International Museum Expo at Pragati Maidan, where the Prime Minister introduced the Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum, highlighting its eight thematic segments that will illuminate India’s historical journey.

     

    During the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi unveiled the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) complex, which has been developed with an investment of about ₹2,700 crore and occupies a sprawling campus area of approximately 123 acres. The IECC complex was also rechristened as Bharat Mandapam, adding a significant dimension to India’s cultural and exhibition spaces.

     

    The thematic segments of the Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum encompass various key periods of India’s history. They range from ancient Indian knowledge to the medieval era, and from the medieval to the transition phase, encapsulating modern India and reflecting upon colonial rule. Additionally, the museum focuses on the freedom struggle, commemorating the 100 years from 1947 onwards, while looking ahead with a forward-looking perspective.

     

    The virtual walkthrough of the museum provides an intriguing digital preview of the galleries and gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the wealth of knowledge and artifacts that will be on display. This includes insights into ancient town planning systems, the profound wisdom of the Vedas and Upanishads, and the invaluable contributions of ancient medical knowledge. Furthermore, the walkthrough touches upon significant historical periods, such as the Mauryan to Gupta Empires, the illustrious Vijayanagara Empire, the era of the Mughal Empire, and the rule of various other dynasties.

     

    The Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum holds the promise of becoming a symbol of India’s rich heritage and vibrant cultural identity, inviting enthusiasts and visitors from across the world to embark on a transformative journey through the annals of history.