Cultural diplomacy in the Age of Festivals: India's soft power stands out at global summits.

Political scientist Joseph S. Nye once said, «Cultural festivals are the new roundtables of international diplomacy where the currency is not power but participation; not politics but shared experiences.>>

- ANURAG PUNETHA

Think about it-in today's world, sometimes a shared meal or a dance performance can do more for international relations than hours of formal meetings.

India finds itself at an interesting crossroads. As it prepares to participate in the SCO Summit in Pakistan this October and the G20 Summit in November, the country faces a unique challenge. How do you balance being the land of vibrant festivals and warm hospitality with the need to stand firm against security threats? For years, Pakistan has antagonised India, primarily through its support for cross-border terrorism.

Diplomatic gestures alone failed to achieve peace.

Narendra Modi's government understood the need for military strength, and India's responses, including halting bilateral talks and carrying out surgical strikes, sent the right signal. At the time of Dussehra and later Diwali, the symbolism is fitting. Dussehra marks the triumph of good over evil, and Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness. Lord Ram, after countless emissaries like Hanuman and Angad failed to convince Ravana, acted decisively to bring victory. Similarly, after years of patience and diplomatic efforts, the Modi government moved decisively, conducting military strikes and forcing Pakistan into a defensive stance.