Renowned philanthropist and author Sudha Murthy delivered her inaugural address in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, shedding light on the Northeast region of Bharat as a hidden gem overflowing with cultural and natural wonders.
In her passionate speech, Murthy accentuated Bharat’s rich tapestry of heritage, noting the existence of 42 recognised World Heritage Sites and an additional 57 domestic sites worthy of similar acclaim. Among these, she highlighted iconic landmarks such as the Bahubali statue at Shravanabela Gola, the majestic Lingaraja Temple, and the ancient Chausath Yogini temple in Mitawali.
Murthy specifically drew attention to the enigmatic sculptures of Unakoti in Tripura and the awe-inspiring natural root bridges in Mizoram, describing them as divine gifts deserving greater recognition and preservation.
“In Bharat, we boast 42 World Heritage sites, but there are 57 more awaiting our attention,” Murthy asserted, urging a renewed focus on these lesser-known treasures.
Expressing regret that renowned sites like Ajanta, Ellora, and the Taj Mahal receive widespread acclaim while many other cultural marvels languish in obscurity, Murthy invoked a Subhashita to illustrate her point: Bharat’s overlooked heritage sites are akin to diamonds neglected in favour of mere glass pieces.
“There are fantastic sculptures in Tripura, such as Unakoti, shrouded in mystery and dating back thousands of years. And then there are the natural root bridges in Mizoram and other parts of the Northeast, truly God’s gifts to us. While we marvel at treasures abroad, we often fail to appreciate the diamonds in our own hands,” Murthy passionately remarked.
Murthy also praised Assam’s Majuli Island, situated on the Brahmaputra River, as a stunning example of Bharat’s beauty. “In other countries, such a site might be celebrated as a top wedding destination or entertainment hub, but sadly, 90 per cent of Indians remain unaware of its splendour,” she lamented.
In conclusion, Murthy called upon the nation to cherish and promote these hidden gems, recognising their intrinsic value and untapped potential. She urged fellow Indians to cultivate a deeper appreciation for their country’s diverse cultural and natural heritage, advocating for concerted efforts in their preservation and celebration.
Sudha Murthy’s nomination to the Rajya Sabha on the eve of International Women’s Day marks a significant milestone in her journey of service and advocacy for Bharat’s cultural richness.
