AIKYAM 2025 showcases India’s heritage power, says UNESCO official

Ajanta and Ellora are not just ancient monuments, they are living symbols of India’s philosophical depth, artistic brilliance and collective human achievement. This powerful message was delivered by Dr. Timothy Curtis, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in India, during the three-day AIKYAM 2025 event, held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

Addressing dignitaries and global representatives, Dr. Curtis said that in today’s rapidly evolving world, the heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora remind humanity of the importance of dialogue, cooperation and shared progress. These sites, among the earliest Indian entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List, reflect a unique fusion of artistic excellence, scientific innovation and coexistence between diverse traditions.

“Ajanta and Ellora stand as dynamic Indian repositories of philosophy, creativity and shared human endeavour. Their legacy reminds us of what humanity can achieve together,” he stated, calling for renewed commitment to cross-cultural understanding and collective action.

The event, AIKYAM 2025, showcased this vision vividly. Organisers described it as an initiative that reimagines how heritage, performance and dialogue can converge to build global understanding. Over 30 countries were represented, with ambassadors, diplomats and cultural figures attending the closing ceremony on Sunday.

Maharashtra Tourism Department Principal Secretary Sanjay Khandare highlighted the state’s strong tourism performance, noting that Maharashtra recorded the highest foreign tourist inflow in India with 3.71 million international visitors. Municipal Chief G. Sreekanth reaffirmed the state’s commitment to honouring its traditions while embracing modernity.

Siddhaant Mohta, co-founder and director of Sopaan the organiser of AIKYAM said the event was a strategic attempt to position heritage not merely as history, but as a guide for shaping future global relations.

With UNESCO officials, state authorities and international delegates coming together under one roof, AIKYAM 2025 reinforced the idea that cultural heritage is not just about preservation it is about connection, inspiration, and a shared vision for humanity.