Bharat: The Mother of Democracy is a tribute to India’s unbroken democratic ethos, tracing its roots from ancient times to the present day. This initiative, curated by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), showcases how the idea of people’s participation in governance has been an intrinsic part of Indian civilisation for over 5,000 years. From the Sabhas and Samitis mentioned in the Vedas to the structured self-governance in ancient republics like Vaishali, India’s democratic traditions have always been deeply rooted in dialogue, consensus, and collective decision-making.
The exhibition presents textual references from ancient scriptures, epics, and classical literature, alongside archaeological, numismatic, and inscriptional evidence that affirm India’s democratic legacy. Themes such as liberty, justice, equality, and fraternity, now enshrined in the Constitution, have been practised through community institutions, councils, and assemblies across centuries. The journey of democracy is depicted through immersive exhibits, digital archives, and artistic interpretations that bridge India’s ancient wisdom with its modern democratic framework. Bharat’s story as the Mother of Democracy is not only one of governance but of a civilisational philosophy that values human dignity, pluralism, and harmony, making India’s democracy both the oldest and the most enduring in the world.
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